So You Want an Aussiedoodle? Read This Before You Buy

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Thinking about adding an Aussiedoodle to your crew? You’re in good company. These guys have exploded in popularity across the US lately, and for good reason. They’re basically "Einstein in a fur coat." But before you fall in love with those soulful eyes in the listings below, let’s talk about what life with an "Aussie-poo" is actually like.

I’ve pulled together the top 10 things people are constantly searching for, answered with a bit of "real world" experience.

1. What’s the "vibe" of an Aussiedoodle?​

If you want a dog that’s going to chill on the porch all day, keep moving—this isn't the breed for you. The Aussiedoodle is a mix of two of the world's most intense workaholics: the Australian Shepherd and the Poodle.

Their temperament is best described as "intense affection." They don't just like you; they want to be you. Expect a 50-pound shadow following you into the bathroom, leaning against your legs while you make coffee, and staring at you with eerie intelligence. They’re goofy, incredibly sweet, and usually pretty "soft" (meaning they’re sensitive to your mood). If you’re sad, they’ll know it before you do.

2. Is the "hypoallergenic" thing a myth?​

Okay, let’s get real about the "doodle" coat. Most people want them because they don't want dog hair on their clothes. While it's true that most Aussiedoodles shed significantly less than a purebred Aussie, there’s no such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic dog.

If you have severe allergies, look for an F1b (that’s a cross between an Aussiedoodle and a Poodle). Since they're 75% Poodle, they're much more likely to have that tight, curly coat that traps dander. If you get a pup with a "flat coat" or a "wavy coat," you’re still going to find some hair on your couch. Always ask the breeder about the coat type before committing!

3. How much "crazy" am I signing up for? (Exercise)​

Aussiedoodles have a "motor" that just doesn't quit. We aren't talking about a casual stroll around the block. These dogs need a job. If you don't give them one, they’ll choose a job themselves—usually "deconstructing the drywall" or "herding the cat."

Plan on at least an hour of hard exercise daily. I’m talking fetch, hiking, or agility. But here’s the secret: Physical exercise isn't enough. You have to tire out their brains, too. Puzzles, nose-work, or learning new tricks are mandatory if you want a calm dog in the evening.

4. Are they actually "easy" to train?​

They’re too easy to train. That’s the problem. An Aussiedoodle will learn a command in three tries, but they’ll also learn that if they bark at the cupboard, you’ll eventually give them a treat just to shut them up.

They’re manipulative little geniuses. You’ve got to stay one step ahead of them. Use positive reinforcement (treats and praise go a long way), but keep the sessions short and varied. If they think they’re smarter than you—and they might be—they’ll start making their own rules.

5. What health issues should I watch out for?​

When you're looking through the listings on our .US site, don't be afraid to grill the sellers on health testing. Since they're a crossbreed, they can get the "best of both worlds," but they can also inherit the worst.

The big ones are Hip Dysplasia and Cataracts. There’s also something called the MDR1 mutation, which makes them super sensitive to certain common medications (like some flea/tick meds). A reputable breeder will have tested the parents for these specific things. If a seller says "they’re a mutt, they don't have health problems," that’s a red flag.

6. How big do they get?​

This is the "Wild West" of the doodle world. Because Poodles come in Toy, Miniature, and Standard sizes, Aussiedoodles are all over the map.

• Toy: 10–20 lbs (Great for apartments, but still high energy).
• Mini: 20–45 lbs (The "Goldilocks" size for most families).
• Standard: 50–70+ lbs (Big, bouncy, and takes up the whole couch).
  
  Always check the weight of the parents, but keep in mind that a Standard Aussie mixed with a Mini Poodle can result in some surprising "middle-weight" pups.

7. What’s the deal with grooming?​

If you hate brushing, turn back now. The Aussiedoodle coat is beautiful, but it’s high-maintenance. It’s a mix of hair and wool, which means it mats easily. If those mats get close to the skin, it’s painful for the dog.

You’ll need to brush them thoroughly 3 times a week and visit a professional groomer every 6 to 8 weeks. Budget for this! A full "groom" for a Standard Aussiedoodle isn't cheap. Pro tip: Ask your groomer for a "teddy bear cut" or a "puppy cut" to keep things manageable.

8. Do they play well with others?​

Usually, yes. They’re social butterflies. They tend to love other dogs and are generally very gentle with children. However—and this is a big "however"—that Australian Shepherd DNA is strong. They have a natural urge to herd. Don't be surprised if your puppy tries to "gather" your toddlers by nipping at their heels or bumping them with their nose. It’s not mean-spirited; they’re just trying to keep the "flock" together.

9. Can I keep one in an apartment?​

You can, but you'd better be active. An Aussiedoodle in an apartment is like a Ferrari in a school zone—it wants to go! As long as you’re committed to those long walks and park trips, they can adapt to smaller spaces. They aren't typically "nuisance barkers," but they will definitely let you know if someone is at the door.

10. What should I ask the person I'm buying from?​

Since you're browsing our classifieds, we want you to have a great experience. Don't just ask "is the puppy available?" Ask:

• "What are the temperaments of the parents?"
• "Have the parents been tested for Hip Dysplasia and MDR1?"
• "What kind of socialization have the puppies had so far?"
• "What generation is this? (F1, F1b, F2?)"

A good seller will be happy to answer these. They care where their pups are going.

Ready to meet your new best friend? Take a look at the Aussiedoodle listings on our .US site and reach out to some of the breeders. If you have more questions, feel free to start a new thread here in the forum!