Aussiedoodles

The F1 Aussiedoodle combines the curly, continuously growing coat of the Poodle with the thick undercoat of the Australian Shepherd. Professional groomers report that such Doodle combinations are amongst the most challenging breeds they groom, especially because owners too often neglect their daily grooming. Aussiedoodles should be groomed daily using a slicker brush, pin brush, and long toothed metal comb. Have the dog lie on its side and brush the coat in layers so you can make sure to reach all the way down to the skin. Professional groomers report that a major problem is that owners too often brush only the surface, often believing they are brushing to the skin, when in fact the undercoat has matted into a solid layer along the skin. In these cases the dog must be shaved to the skin and the hair allowed to start over. It is unfair to the dog or groomer to expect such a coat to be salvaged. Bathing can be a long process, and it may be better to just let the professional groomer do it. Your Aussiedoodle will need to be professionally groomed every four to six weeks. You may wish to call around in your area to find out what the range in prices is. Although the groomer will clip the nails, you should also clip them every two weeks. Check the ears for signs of infection, such as inflammation or waxy accumulation. Brush the teeth every day if possible.

Both Aussies and Poodles are high energy breeds, bred to spend the day out herding or retrieving. Exercise is imperative for the Aussiedoodle. Depending on size, they may be able to exercise in your yard or more likely, they will need to get out and jog around the neighborhood or even go for hikes or long jogs. Fortunately this is a biddable breed that will (usually) come when called so they can be let off leash in safe areas. Mental exercise is equally important, so try to incorporate mental challenges such as nose work or even tracking in your daily exercise routine. Favorite activities are herding, retrieving, swimming, tricks, and agility. They do well in all weather.

Young Aussiedoodles are more likely to be underweight than overweight because of their high activity. But with age they will tend to gain weight, especially if neutered or spayed. Proper weight is when the body has an hourglass figure viewed from both the top and side, with a noticeable tuck-up. No ribs or vertebrae should show, but you should be able to feel the ribs without digging for them. If the dog begins to be overweight, switch to a low calorie food. Aussiedoodle puppies should eat a high quality food formulated for puppies. Neither puppies nor adults have any breed-specific precautions. Like any dog, an individual can develop health problems that do best with special diets. Your veterinarian can advise you.