Belgian Shepadoodle (Belgian Sheepdog & Poodle Mix): Info, Pictures

The Belgian Shepadoodle has a lot going for it out of the gate. He is a handsome dog that comes from two gorgeous parent breeds. Both have a working-class background, which accounts for their energy level and also their playful nature. He is an active dog that needs a home and owners that can give him the workouts that he needs to thrive.

The job of the Belgian Sheepdog usurped the dog’s popularity. He had a job to do in which he succeeded. The Poodle was a champ in the field. This seemingly dainty pooch was a worker before the prima donna of the show ring. To study this dog’s history is research into contrasts. How we view this pup today is miles apart from his earlier purpose.

Belgian Shepadoodle Puppies

Research of the Belgian Shepadoodle is necessary because of the unfamiliarity of the Belgian Sheepdog. It is not the most popular breed, which contributes to the mystery of what you can expect from this hybrid. The good news is that the dog stays on point without a lot of overbreeding, which could dilute the characteristics. What you see is what you get.

Several factors stand out among the things that pet owners must know upfront, including activity level and socialization. Both warrant attention. Another defining point is the pup’s health. The Belgian Shepadoodle has several issues that require pre-screening, which the wise pet owner will anticipate.

While the Belgian Sheepdog isn’t overly popular, the Poodle is. That means you’ll pay a higher price for a Belgian Shepadoodle. Bear in mind that this hybrid is only recognized by the Dog Registry of America. Anyone can register a litter with the sire and dam info. There is no official standard nor the accompanying oversight.

Therefore, we offer this advice. Do not buy a dog from a puppy mill. These unreputable sellers always have pups available in response to demand. There are several red flags, which can alert you to a potential issue. If a breeder doesn’t ask you questions before the sale, that’s a problem. Trustworthy dealers care about the people to whom he sells his pups.

Also, ask about the puppy’s vaccination and deworming record. They must have these things done early in their life. Never buy a dog from a seller who does not do these basic tasks. The life of the pooch depends on it. When researching breeders, don’t forget about rescue groups. These are pets that need a home desperately. Make your purchase more worthwhile with this choice.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Belgian Shepadoodle

1. The Poodle Can Hunt More Than Waterfowl.

Historically, Poodles served as flushers and retrievers for waterfowl hunters. They would shoot the birds, and their canine companions brought home the prize. However, that’s not the only valuable loot this breed fetches. His keen sense of smell gives the Poodle a winning edge when it comes to finding truffles. Unlike a lot of mushrooms, these fungi grow underground. That makes a dog with a good nose valuable.

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2. The Poodle Is an Ancient Breed.

Given his historical job and versatility, it’s isn’t a stretch of the imagination to realize that the Poodle has a long history. He has, after all, served many roles. Not many dogs can claim the broad range of jobs that this dog has fulfilled from hunting partner to companion.

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3. The English Springer Spaniel Used to Have English Cockers in Its Lineage.

The English Springer Spaniel and Cocker have had a similar history. They served similar roles. Instead, we see a vivid example of selective breeding with the two. The Spaniel loves the hunt, a task he enjoys to this day.

Temperament & Intelligence of the Belgian Shepadoodle

You won’t find too many dogs smarter than the Poodle. His role in the field gives him the experience and instincts he needs to succeed in this task. That makes him easy to train, which is always a plus. He may or may not be a suitable choice for the first-time pet owner. It’ll depend on which parent breed is dominant in the mix.

However, these traits only scratch the surface of the Belgian Shepadoodle. Other factors play a role that is essential to consider. We’ll delve into a few of them that can put the hybrid in the dealmaker or dealbreaker category when looking for a pet.

Are These Dogs Good for Families?

The Belgian Shepadoodle loves his tribe. He lavishes affection on both adults and kids alike. He loves people! This dog isn’t nippy, but he has the intensity to make play exciting. That’s a good thing because it matches his energy level. He is a watchful pup, so expect him to keep a close eye on the children. He is sociable with strangers, as long as he knows they are friends whom they can trust.

Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets?

While the Poodle doesn’t have a strong prey drive, the Belgian Sheepdog does. This pup will chase whatever animal runs away from him, even if it is the family cat. It’s not a stretch of the imagination, given the roles of both the parent breeds. This instinct runs deep. It brings with it a high wanderlust potential. That means he won’t give up the hunt easily, no matter where it takes him.

Things to Know When Owning a Belgian Shepadoodle:

While you probably have met a Poodle, the Belgian Sheepdog is perhaps a stranger to you. That makes looking up the history and details about both the parent breeds imperative to gaining a better understanding of the Belgian Shepadoodle. Depending on the mix, he’s likely a combination of each of their traits. As we always say, knowledge is power when it comes to making any decision.

Food & Diet Requirements

The Belgian Shepadoodle is an active dog. You only have to look at their historical roles to grasp that much. These were working animals with a specific job. That said, a diet that supports their activity level and endurance are imperative. These canines were working all day long. Their food, therefore, must have enough calories, along with the nutrients to ensure proper development.

A medium-sized dog needs adequate commercial food of high quality. It’s essential to understand that different breeds grow at varying paces, depending on their adult size. That accounts for the differences in a product for the Belgian Shepadoodle versus a Great Dane or Chihuahua. The Poodle part of your pooch has a tendency to gain weight. Monitor his size and adjust his intake accordingly.

Exercise

Dogs with a job like the parent breeds of the Belgian Sheepadoodle need exercise. Their metabolism has evolved with this energy requirement part of the mix. This pooch must have more than a romp in the backyard. A daily walk will keep both you and your pet healthy. Remember that a bored canine is likely to become destructive when he takes his frustration out on whatever is nearby.

While crate training is an effective way to housebreak dogs, a hybrid as active as the Belgian Sheepadoodle will fare better with more human contact versus confinement. He is a smart dog that needs the mental stimulation of time outdoors with you can provide. A pet, after all, is both an investment in time and money.

Training

The intelligence of the Belgian Shepadoodle will make training both easy for you and stimulating for your pup. He’s up to the task when it comes to learning new tricks and even competing on the agility circuit. That also means that you must keep it interesting for him. Otherwise, he’ll get bored, something you want to avoid at all costs.

He is a sensitive dog. Therefore, he’ll do better with positive reinforcement than harsh reprimands when he is naughty. We suggest using treats as a training aid to keep learning new things fun for your pooch. You’ll also benefit from making it a priority in training.

Grooming ✂️

Grooming maintenance depends on the dominant breed. The Poodle doesn’t shed. However, professional grooming is often necessary to keep him mat-free. The Belgian Sheepdog sheds—a lot with his double coat. That means regular brushing to keep it in check. It often entails additional work with trimming the hair around his ears and belly.

Both parent breeds have dense coats. Regular grooming can keep you on top of any potential skin issues, including fleas and ticks. It’s essential to stay on top of these conditions because humans can catch some diseases that dogs carry, like Lyme disease.

Health and Conditions

Both parent breeds of the Belgian Shepadoodle are relatively healthy. The popularity of the Poodle has made him more vulnerable to some conditions, particularly joint problems. Reputable breeders will conduct the recommended health screenings to contain them and avoid passing them on to future generations. Pass on any sellers who do not perform these necessary tasks.

Male vs Female

Males are larger than females but not enough, which makes a significant difference as it does in some breeds. Both make wonderful pets. If you are torn between the two sexes, female pups cost more to spay than neutering males. The recovery is longer because the surgery is more invasive. Otherwise, it’s a matter of preference.

Final Thoughts on the Belgian Shepadoodle

The Belgian Shepadoodle is a handsome dog that comes from excellent stock. Both parent breeds contribute desirable traits to the mix. The Belgian Sheepdog has the enthusiasm that makes training easy. The Poodle adds the elegance and proud bearing to make this pup even more stately. Together, the Belgian Shepadoodle is a canine worth a second look.

This dog is a joy to own. He is affectionate and family-friendly on all scores. Be sure to get your puppy from a reputable breeder who takes the time to do the necessary health screenings. The Belgian Shepadoodle is worth the expense and effort for this delightful pet.

See also:

• Belgian Tervuren vs Malinois: Main Differences (With Pictures)
• Alaskan Pit Bull (Alaskan Malamute & Pit Bull Mix): Info, Pictures

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Featured Image Credit: Pxfuel