If you want a Sheepadoodle but are concerned about their size, you may want to consider a Mini Sheepadoodle.
They’re a hybrid breed, just like the Sheepadoodle, that have become more common over the past couple of decades.
A Sheepadoodle is the result of breeding between an Old English Sheepdog and a standard Poodle.
You can probably guess that a Mini Sheepadoodle is a cross between an Old English Sheepdog and a miniature Poodle.
Mini Sheepadoodles are similar in personality to the Sheepadoodle but the size is the big difference between these two types of dog.
In this article, we’ll take a close look at the Mini Sheepadoodle, including their appearance, size, temperament and intelligence.
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What is a Mini Sheepadoodle?
A Mini Sheepadoodle is a cross between an Old English Sheepdog and a Miniature Poodle.
They’re almost the same as a Sheepadoodle except a Mini Poodle is used rather than a Standard Poodle.
You shouldn’t confuse a Sheepadoodle or a Mini Sheepadoodle for a Shepadoodle, which is a cross between a German Shepherd and an Old English Sheepdog.
While it isn’t clear exactly when the first Sheepadoodles were bred, the name was first coined back in 1992.
What size is a Mini Sheepadoodle?
As their name suggests, Mini Sheepadoodles are smaller in size than Sheepadoodles.
Mini Sheepadoodles will grow to a height of around 15 to 20 inches in height, although this can differ from dog to dog.
They can weigh between 30 and 35 pounds but some Mini Sheepadoodles can be heavier than this range.
Mini Sheepadoodle breeder Open Range provide an insight into the growth spurts that these dogs will experience in the formative years.
They state that the growth rate for Mini Sheepadoodles is usually “non-stop” until they’re seven or eight months old before their spurt slow down.
However, Open Range prepare prospective Mini Sheepadoodle owners to see additional weight appear at their hips and upper chest around the 16 to 18 month mark.
By 18 months, Mini Sheepadoodle owners will get a good idea of what their fully grown dog will look like in terms of size.
They’re sometimes likened to a Portuguese Water Dog in size. These dogs grow to a height of 17 to 20 inches and can weigh between 35 and 60 pounds.
Sheepadoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle
Bear the Sheepadoodle (Photo: @sheepadoodlebear)
If you’re unsure whether a Sheepadoodle or a Mini Sheepadoodle is a better fit for your home, size could be a big factor.
Sheepadoodle will usually grow to be around 18 to 23 inches in height. Males weigh between 60 and 85 pounds, while females usually weigh between 50 to 75 pounds.
So, Sheepadoodles are roughly around five inches bigger than Mini Sheepadoodles, while there is a 15 pound weight difference.
Do Mini Sheepadoodles shed?
Like the Sheepadoodle, the Mini Sheepadoodle have a reputation for being low shedders.
Old English Sheepdogs have a double coat but these herding dogs don’t shed as much as other canines with an inner and an outer coat.
Poodles are famous for their unique coats. These duck-hunting dogs are recognised by the American Kennel Club as low shedders.
Their tight curls are one of their best known features.
Are Mini Sheepadoodles hypoallergenic?
If you’ve got an allergy to dogs, you’ll have no doubt carried out some careful research in an attempt to find the perfect dog breed for you.
The AKC emphasise on their website that there is no such thing as a 100 per cent hypoallergenic dog.
However, the organisation does suggest 19 breeds that are good candidates for those looking for a “hypoallergenic” breed.
The Poodle is one of the aforementioned 19 types of dogs that are better suited for allergy sufferers.
Not only are they a low shedding dog, but their tight curls catch dander (tiny, microscopic pieces of dog skin) which can trigger allergies.
However, saliva is another potential trigger, which explains why no dog can be completely hypoallergenic.
While Mini Sheepadoodles don’t shed a lot like Sheepadoodles, it doesn’t mean their salvia won’t be problematic for allergy sufferers.
Mini Sheepadoodle grooming
Mini Sheepadoodles are low shedders, but they still require regular brushing and grooming.
Mini Sheepadoodle owners will need to brush their fluffy pooch at least three or four times a week to prevent their fur becoming matted or tangled.
They’ll also require a trim every couple of months, especially if you plan to allow your Mini Sheepadoodle to go swimming.
Mini Sheepadoodle temperament
Mini Sheepadoodle have balanced personalities, which make them a big hit with families.
They’re affectionate dogs that don’t take long to become attached to their owners.
These sweet dogs are usually gentle and patient with children, hence their popularity with families.
Mini Sheepadoodles, like Sheepadoodles, are social dogs that like to interact with other canines. They generally do well with other pets – too.
This hybrid breed are eager to please their owners and relish the chance to receive praise for good behaviour and obedience.
Given the Poodle is the second most intelligent dog in the world, it should be no surprise that Mini Sheepadoodles are smart pups.
They’re usually quite easy to train due to their IQ and their desire to please their owner.
How much exercise do Mini Sheepadoodles need?
The cross breed are fairly active dogs so Mini Sheepadoodles will require daily exercise. You’ll need to ensure they get to stretch their legs for at least 30 minutes a day.
According to Mini Sheepadoodle breeder London Sheepadoodles, they do best with a semi active family. While they’re fine laying with you on the couch, they do need to be properly exercised.
How much do Mini Sheepadoodles cost?
Mini Sheepadoodles are expensive, which shouldn’t come as a surprise given they’re “designer dogs”.
The price of a Mini Sheepadoodle can vary from breeder to breeder and what characteristics they place a higher value on.
Usually, these dogs will cost between $2000 and $3500. You should do thorough research before deciding to go with a breeder.
You should always be able to see the puppy with its mother when you collect your little pooch.
If you’re unable to see a puppy’s mother, it could indicate the puppies have not been bred by the advertiser or have been imported.
Other potential costs include dog food, pet insurance, grooming, vet trips and much more. You can check out the best pet insurance options in the USA and the UK.
Anything Else to Consider?
Mini Sheepadoodle don’t tend to bark a lot so they don’t make great watch dogs. They’re friendly around people and aren’t suspicious of strangers.
Old English Sheepdogs were bred to herd sheep and other farm animals before evolving into much loved pets.
An experienced dog trainer should be able to help tackle Mini Sheepadoodle owners who are concerned about herding or nipping.
In conclusion
Mini Sheepadoodles are a cross between an Old English Sheepdog and a Miniature Poodle.
These dogs are smaller than the Sheepadoodle but come with all the benefits of their larger cousins.
They’re gentle, loving and outgoing dogs that have earned a reputation for being great family pets.
Mini Sheepadoodles don’t shed a lot, which makes them a candidate for those with an allergy to dogs.
However, they can be quite expensive, ranging from $1000 to $3500 in price.
