Introduction
The Poodle was one of the first dogs used for intended crossbreeding, and it remains the most popular parent for designer dog breeds.
The German Shepherd – Poodle mix or Shepadoodle is also a product of the bold experiment. While Poodle Club of America disapproves of mating Poodles with other dogs, this mix can be surprisingly sympathetic, smart and cute.
How Does the Mix Dog Look Like?
As usual, patent breeds genes may combine in a very unexpected way, so it’s almost impossible to predict the appearance of pups in the exact litter.
The case study shows that Shepadoodles often resemble Irish Wolfhound in mooze, color, and overall body build. But it at least 10 inches smaller and 40 pound lighter.
Thus, one who loves this Irish breed but couldn’t afford keeping them may be delighted with the Shepherd-Poodle metis.
The testimonies indicate that all metis are lop-eared. The ears are thick as the shepherd’s ones, so we recommend to remain them uncropped. The mix dog fur often doesn’t cause allergy, which is the appealing feature of Poodle genes.
The Temper and Behaviour of the Hybrid
Both parent breeds are smart and often used as working dogs. As far as Shepherds and Poodles, the metis learns willingly and easy, and may be trained for such complex tasks as a blind guide or a sniffer dog.
Unlike shepherds, Shepadoodles are less aggressive to people beyond family and other animals, but still aware of strangers approaching the house in a suspicious way.
Thus, the metis won’t hurt mail carrier, but will seize someone coming through the window.
Working dog breeds commonly require respect and willpower of the master, so they don’t get on well with children. Shepadoodles dispelled this stereotype and established the reputation of naughty, playful and reliable family companion.
Beside of training, the metis will remember your habits so that will never annoy you blocking the bathroom door or hiding slippers in the morning. Of course, you need to be kind and patient to raise up the dog in this way.
Care and Possible Health Problems
You can groom the mix dog like a Poodle: brush the fur daily, clean the ears and wash once a month at most. The eyes and nails also need care.
The former is the sore spot of the German Shepherd, so examine eyes regularly for reddening and secretion. A good diet is also a must.
Way of Living and Exercise
As a big and smart dog, Shepadoodle needs a lot of physical and mental exercise.
If you aren’t ready to visit dog playground regularly or run with the dog for more than 5 hours a day, the half-breed won’t feel itself comfortable in the apartment. But if you have at least own backyard, the dog will be entertained by itself.
