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

The Belgian Shepadoodle has so much going for them straight out of the gate. This handsome dog comes from two gorgeous parent breeds. Both have working-class backgrounds, which accounts for the hybrid’s energy level and playful nature. The work of the Belgian Sheepdog affected the dog’s popularity, but they had a job to do and they succeeded. The Poodle was a champ in the field: This seemingly dainty pup was a hard worker before becoming the prima donna of the show ring.

The Belgian Sheepdog and Poodle Mix inherits all these character traits, though of course, the ones that manifest the most strongly will vary from dog to dog. Regardless, this active hybrid needs a home and owners who can give them the workouts that they need to thrive.

Belgian Shepadoodle Puppies

Research on the Belgian Shepadoodle is necessary because of the unfamiliarity of the Belgian Sheepdog. They’re 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 up front, 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 they sell their 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 pup depends on it. When researching breeders, don’t forget about rescue groups. These are pets that need homes desperately. You can make your purchase more worthwhile with this choice.

Temperament & Intelligence of the Belgian Shepadoodle

You won’t find too many dogs smarter than the Poodle. Their role in the field gives them the experience and instincts that they need to succeed in many tasks. That makes them easy to train, which is always a plus. They 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 delve into a few of them here that may put the hybrid in the dealmaker or dealbreaker category in your search for a pet.

Are These Dogs Good for Families?

The Belgian Shepadoodle loves their family. They lavish affection on adults and kids alike. They just love people! This dog isn’t nippy, but they have the intensity to make play exciting. That’s a good thing because it matches their energy level. This is a watchful pup, so expect them to keep a close eye on the children. They are sociable with strangers, as long as they know that 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 them, even if they’re the family cat. This only makes sense, given the roles of both the parent breeds. This instinct runs deep and brings with it a high wanderlust potential. That means this dog won’t give up the hunt easily, no matter where it takes them.

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 individual dog, they’re likely a combination of their traits. 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 parents’ historical roles to see that much. These were working animals with specific jobs. So, a diet that supports their activity level and endurance is imperative. These canines can work all day long. Their food, therefore, must have enough calories, along with the nutrients to ensure proper development.

This 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 a Belgian Shepadoodle versus a Great Dane or Chihuahua. The Poodle part of your pup has a tendency to gain weight. Monitor their size and adjust their intake accordingly.

Exercise

Dogs with jobs like the parent breeds of the Belgian Sheepadoodle need exercise. Their metabolism has evolved with this energy requirement. This pup 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 they take out their frustration 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. This smart dog needs the mental stimulation that 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 the mix both easy for you and stimulating for your pup. They’re up to the task when it comes to learning new tricks and even competing on the agility circuit. That also means you must keep things interesting for them. Otherwise, they’ll get bored, something you want to avoid at all costs.

This is a sensitive dog, so they’ll do better with positive reinforcement than harsh reprimands when they act out. We suggest using treats as a training aid to keep learning new things be fun for your pup. 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 them mat-free. The Belgian Sheepdog sheds excessively with their double coat. That means regular brushing to keep it in check. It often entails additional work, including trimming the hair around their 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 them more vulnerable to certain 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.

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Male vs. Female

Males are larger than females but not by much. 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.

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. Their 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 their historical job versatility, the Poodle has a long history and has served in 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 Belgian Sheepdog Loves to Work

These dogs were bred to work, so they prefer to stay busy and mentally stimulated. On a farm, they might be involved in herding. In the city, they can excel in agility trials or dog sports.

Final Thoughts

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 elegance and proud bearing to make this hybrid even more stately. Together, the Belgian Shepadoodle is a canine worth a second look.

This dog is a joy to own. They are 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
• Alaskan Pit Bull (Alaskan Malamute & Pit Bull Mix)

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Featured Image Credit: Pxfuel