The Aussie Doodle is one of the most charming and intelligent designer dog breeds you’ll ever meet. Known for their friendly nature, high intelligence, and adorable teddy bear-like appearance, these dogs have captured the hearts of families, singles, and seniors alike. If you’ve ever met an Aussie Doodle, you know it’s nearly impossible not to fall in love.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Aussie Doodle, from their history and personality to grooming tips that keep them healthy, comfortable, and looking their best. Whether you’re considering adding an Aussie Doodle to your home or already have one curled up on your couch, you’ll find valuable information here.
What is an Aussie Doodle?
An Aussie Doodle is a crossbreed between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle (most often the Standard Poodle, though Miniature Poodles are sometimes used to create smaller Aussie Doodles). This combination results in a dog that’s both highly intelligent and hypoallergenic-friendly, making them a popular choice among dog lovers with mild allergies.
The breed is not officially recognized by major kennel clubs, but that doesn’t stop the Aussie Doodle from being one of the most in-demand designer breeds in the United States. Thanks to their Poodle parent, they often inherit a low-shedding coat, and from their Australian Shepherd parent, they get remarkable athleticism and a lively spirit.
History of the Aussie Doodle
The Aussie Doodle is part of the growing wave of “Doodle” breeds that became popular in the late 20th century. While the Labradoodle may have started the trend, breeders quickly realized that combining the Australian Shepherd’s intelligence and the Poodle’s trainability created an extraordinary companion.
Both parent breeds have working backgrounds:
- Australian Shepherd – Known for their herding ability, problem-solving skills, and stamina.
- Poodle – Originally bred for water retrieving, Poodles are incredibly intelligent and versatile.
By blending these qualities, breeders created a dog that’s not only beautiful but also eager to please, quick to learn, and full of personality.
Appearance of the Aussie Doodle
The Aussie Doodle is often described as a living teddy bear. Their look can vary greatly depending on which parent breed they take after more.
Common traits include:
- Size: Standard Aussie Doodles typically weigh between 40–70 pounds, while Mini Aussie Doodles can be 15–35 pounds.
- Coat: Wavy to curly texture, medium to long length.
- Colors: Blue merle, red merle, black, chocolate, cream, phantom, and parti-color.
- Eyes: Brown, amber, or striking blue (sometimes one of each).
No two Aussie Doodles look exactly alike, which is part of their charm.
Personality and Temperament
The Aussie Doodle is famous for its friendly, affectionate, and intelligent nature. They thrive on human interaction and often form strong bonds with their families.
Key personality traits:
- Highly Intelligent – They excel at learning new tricks, commands, and games.
- Energetic – Daily exercise is a must to keep them happy.
- Affectionate – They love to cuddle and be close to their humans.
- Playful – Great with children and other pets when socialized early.
- Alert – They make good watchdogs, though they’re usually too friendly to be aggressive.
Because of their intelligence, Aussie Doodles require mental stimulation alongside physical activity. Without it, they can become bored and mischievous.
Exercise Needs of an Aussie Doodle
The Aussie Doodle is not a couch potato. They inherit high energy from both parents, which means they need at least 60–90 minutes of exercise daily.
Exercise ideas:
- Long walks or jogs
- Fetch and frisbee
- Agility training
- Swimming
- Interactive puzzle toys
If you live an active lifestyle, the Aussie Doodle can be the perfect adventure buddy.
Grooming Needs of the Aussie Doodle
One of the most important aspects of owning an Aussie Doodle is regular dog grooming. While their coat is beautiful, it requires consistent care to prevent matting and keep them comfortable.
Coat Types
Aussie Doodles can have:
- Curly Coat – Similar to a Poodle; lowest shedding but needs frequent brushing.
- Wavy Coat – A mix of both parents’ coats; moderate maintenance.
- Straight Coat – More like an Australian Shepherd; higher shedding but less prone to matting.
Brushing
Brush your Aussie Doodle at least 3–4 times per week to prevent tangles and mats, especially behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail.
Bathing
Bathe your Aussie Doodle every 4–6 weeks, using a gentle, dog-safe shampoo. Overbathing can strip natural oils from their skin.
Professional Grooming
Most Aussie Doodle owners take their dogs to a professional groomer every 6–8 weeks for a trim. Common grooming styles include:
- Teddy Bear Cut – Rounded face and fluffy coat.
- Puppy Cut – Even length all over for easy maintenance.
- Short Clip – Best for active dogs or hot climates.
Nail Care
Trim nails every 3–4 weeks to prevent discomfort or injury.
Ear Care
Check ears weekly for signs of redness, wax buildup, or odor. Clean gently with a vet-approved ear solution.
Feeding Your Aussie Doodle
A well-balanced diet is key to keeping your Aussie Doodle healthy. Choose high-quality dog food that matches their age, size, and activity level. Some Aussie Doodles can be prone to food sensitivities, so monitor for signs of allergies like itching or digestive upset.
Feeding tips:
- Measure portions to prevent overfeeding.
- Split meals into two servings per day.
- Always provide fresh water.
Training an Aussie Doodle
Training an Aussie Doodle is usually a joy because of their intelligence and eagerness to please. However, their smarts mean they can also get bored with repetitive tasks, so keep training sessions fun and varied.
Training tips:
- Start early with socialization.
- Use positive reinforcement techniques.
- Keep sessions short and engaging.
- Introduce puzzle toys to challenge their mind.
A well-trained Aussie Doodle is a well-behaved Aussie Doodle.
Health Considerations
Like all breeds, the Aussie Doodle can be prone to certain health issues. Common concerns include:
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Epilepsy
- Allergies
Regular vet check-ups, a healthy diet, and proper exercise can help minimize risks.
Why the Aussie Doodle Makes a Great Family Dog
If you’re looking for a loyal, loving, and active companion, the Aussie Doodle is a fantastic choice. They’re adaptable to many living situations, though they do best in homes where they can get plenty of exercise and attention.
They’re great with kids, generally friendly with strangers, and can live peacefully with other pets when properly introduced.
Grooming Tips to Keep Your Aussie Doodle Looking and Feeling Great
Here are some expert grooming tips to make your Aussie Doodle’s coat shine and stay tangle-free:
- Use a slicker brush for daily maintenance.
- Detangle spray can help with stubborn knots.
- Trim the hair around the eyes for better vision and cleanliness.
- Keep paw hair trimmed to prevent debris buildup.
- Regular teeth brushing keeps their breath fresh and prevents dental disease.
Common Myths About the Aussie Doodle
Myth 1: Aussie Doodles don’t shed at all.
While many shed less than other breeds, some still shed lightly, especially those with wavier coats.
Myth 2: They don’t need much grooming.
In reality, their coats need regular care to prevent mats and tangles.
Myth 3: They’re hypoallergenic for everyone.
No dog is 100% hypoallergenic, but many allergy sufferers find Aussie Doodles more tolerable.
Final Thoughts on the Aussie Doodle
The Aussie Doodle is a delightful blend of intelligence, beauty, and affection. They thrive in active households, love to learn, and are a joy to groom when you have the right tools and routine. With proper care, training, and love, your Aussie Doodle will be a loyal companion for many years to come.
If you’re ready for a dog that’s as smart as they are adorable, the Aussie Doodle might just be your perfect match.
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Ready to give your Aussie Doodle experience they deserve? Schedule an appointment with Kontota® today. We’ll bring the salon to you, saving you time and providing a comfortable grooming experience for your pet.
