Shepadoodle Hybrid Dogs

The Shepadoodle dog is one of the canine hybrids that is somewhat difficult to pinpoint in a description since they can vary in their coat types, colors and even which parent dog breed they most closely favor.

A Shepadoodle puppy is produced through the breeding of a German Shepherd Dog (GSD) with a Standard Poodle and as such they are one of the larger members of the hybrid breeds. Males are typically larger than females with weights ranging from 45-75 pounds and measurements of 15-24 inches at the shoulder.

The body of the Shepadoodle dog is moderately long and well developed with a gentle sloping downward at the haunches. The tail is carried in a gentle curve to slightly higher, often with a significant amount of fringe. The legs are very well developed and strong with a deep, wide chest and a longer neck.

The head is carried high and the Shepadoodle dog's face can be more like the Poodle or more like the GSD. The muzzle tends to be long and somewhat tapered but can be covered with longer hair or shorter hair. The eyes are well set and bright, alert and focused on everything that is happening in the environment. Ears can be pricked and alert or longer and hanging to the level of the lower jaw.

Shepadoodle dog coats can vary from the moderately short thick, dense double coat of the GSD to the curly, longer, silky hair of the Poodle. It can be wavy, curly or straight or a combination of textures and types. Colors range from traditional black and tan of the GSD through to solid blacks, browns, grays, parti-colors, brindles and even a cream or lemony color with or without white markings.

The Shepadoodle dog is a good example of a hybrid dog breed that has two very compatible parent breeds when it comes to temperament and intelligence. Both the Poodle and the German Shepherd Dog are well known for their intelligence and loyalty, personality and even temperament. The Shepadoodle dog tends to be less aggressive than the GSD but they still need regular and early socialization to get used to new people and pets. When socialized with cats and other household pets they are terrific companion dogs.

Early obedience training and using only positive training methods is essential with these dogs. They do become very attuned to even the slightest sound of displeasure in their owner's voice and rarely need to be corrected with anything other than a firm "no". In general they are know to be very fast learners and are easy to housetrain provided they are given ample opportunities to get outdoors.

Shepadoodle puppies are good choice for families with children of any age. These dogs love to play but they are not overly exuberant and seem very aware of smaller children, not rough or prone to jumping like some of the other larger breeds of dogs. They are natural watchdogs and some may be ideal guard dogs with training.

Depending on the coat type, Shepadoodle dogs can be relatively low shedding to very high shedding types of dogs. The more GSD like the coat is the more the dog will shed, especially in the spring and fall. Both coat types will need grooming every other day with a pin brush or grooming rake to keep the coat looking tip top. Only bath as necessary to prevent drying the hair and possible skin irritations with shampoos and conditioners.

The Shepadoodle dog is a relatively healthy dog however some genetic conditions such as hip dysplasia and cataracts may be a concern. Both parents in the cross should be checked for hip and eye problems prior to breeding to eliminate any genetic conditions.

As a larger breed the Shepadoodle dog does need room to get out and run once or twice a day in a fenced yard. They can adjust to apartment or small space living provided they have two or more longer walks per day and time to exercise and play.

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by Julie-Ann Amos, professional writer, and owner of international writing agency www.ExquisiteWriting.com

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