Sheepadoodle Prices in 2023: Purchase Cost, Vet Bills, and More!
Though considered a rare breed, the sheepadoodle‘s popularity continues growing. This cross between an old English sheepdog and a standard poodle is highly regarded. Its fierce loyalty, friendly nature, intelligence, and playful spirit make it a popular family pet. That said, would-be owners should learn the ins and outs of sheepadoodle prices in 2023: purchase costs, vet bills, and more.
How Much Does a Sheepadoodle Puppy Cost?
Purchasing a sheepadoodle puppy proves costly. The average price comes in at just under $2,000. However, their cost normally ranges from $1,500-$2,300. Some puppies sell for up to $5,000.
Breeders and veterinarians caution buyers not to be fooled by low prices. In many cases, sheepadoodle puppies sold for only a few hundred dollars come from puppy mills.
Arguably, the seller’s name and reputation most influence the purchase price. Dogs sold by established breeders often sell for a lot more money.
Other Factors Influencing the Purchase Price of a Sheepadoodle
Several factors influence the purchase price of a sheepadoodle including:
Color
Animals with coats made up of less common colors or color combinations sell for more than dogs with more typical appearances. For example, sheepadoodles with all-white, merle, or brindle coats often sell for at least several hundred dollars more than those with more common black and white ones.
Lineage
Dogs born to parents who have placed or won show or skills competitions typically fetch higher purchase prices.
Registration with the American Kennel Club
Sheepadoodles registered with the American Kennel Club or other reputable organizations often sell for larger amounts.
Age
Younger puppies sell for far larger price tags than older dogs.
Geographic Location
Sheepadoodles cost more in certain states. In some cases, those sold in larger cities cost more than those born in smaller regions.
Health Assurances
Certain breeders include initial vaccinations, health checks by reputable vets, and documented health certificates as part of the purchase price.
Cost of Vaccination and Other Medical Expenses for a Sheepadoodle
Vaccinations
Vaccinations will likely run in the hundreds during the puppy’s first several months of life. A young dog’s immune system has yet to develop and immunizations help them fight certain diseases. Typically, vets divide vaccinations into two categories: core and optional.
Core vaccinations include rabies and DHLPP, which protect against illnesses like distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvo, and parainfluenza. Additionally, these safeguards are given every one to three years after the initial series of shots has been completed.
Optional vaccinations include:
- Bortadella
- Canine influenza
- Coronavirus
- Lyme
Optional vaccinations are recommended. However, most states require core protections, especially the rabies shot.
A sheepadoodle’s vet determines its post-puppyhood vaccination schedule based on the dog’s general health and the specific place its family lives.
Medical Expenses
As the sheepadoodle ages, they experience an increased risk of illnesses such as:
- Eye problems
- Heart disease
- Hip dysplasia
- Weakening joints and other connective tissue disorders
- Addison’s disease
- Skin irritation
Medical expenses vary widely. With each passing year, vets may order tests to check for these problems. Such tests often cost hundreds of dollars. That said, where the dog’s family lives, the number of times it needs veterinary care, the animal’s general health, and the services the vet provides determine annual medical costs.
Cost of Food and Supplies for a Sheepadoodle
Food
When fully mature, vets and other dog industry professionals label the sheepadoodle a large dog. Therefore, their recommended diet should consist of high-quality food containing large amounts of important nutrients. Typically, these dogs consume anywhere from one to two cups per feeding. Furthermore, feedings are suggested once in the morning and again in the evening.
The dog’s dietary needs often change with age, activity levels, and health. Therefore, pet parents must speak to their pet’s vet to discuss changing requirements. Sheepadoodle owners should expect to shell out a few hundred per year on food.
Supplies
Most supplies can be purchased before bringing the dog home and require replacement when needed. Specific items include:
- Leash
- Food and water dishes
- Doggie bed
- Harness and collar
- Training pads
- Toys
- Brushes
- Rawhide bones
The exact cost of these items depends on the retail establishment pet parents purchased them from and the number of times they need replacing.
Cost of Insuring a Sheepadoodle
Like human health insurance, pet insurance helps cover potentially expensive medical costs. Factors influencing yearly costs include the dog’s age when the policy is established, the animal’s general health, and the specific policy provisions. That said, average costs often normally shake out to around $500 per year. However, certain policies could run as high as $1,000 annually.
Vets and insurance experts suggest pet parents invest in policies providing coverage for illnesses common to the sheepadoodle. Doing so might cost a little more in yearly premiums. However, it will cost much less in the long run if the dog experiences any of these problems.
Cost of Training for a Sheepadoodle
Canine fitness experts recommend professional training. The sheepadoodle’s eventual large size and enthusiastic energy might present behavior problems later in life if not trained as early in life as possible. These dogs often benefit from instruction regarding:
- Proper walking techniques
- Basic commands
- Socialization skills
- Interaction with other dogs
Training professionals suggest that the sheepadoodle’s friendly nature and eagerness to learn and please make the training process easier. That said, training could cost several hundred dollars or more. The location where the dog’s family lives, the specific training required, and the number of sessions attended factor into determining specific dollar amounts.