Exercise
Sheltidoodle is relatively energetic and requires moderate activities to stay healthy and active. Activities can include short walks, playtime in a yard or Dogs Park will be adequate for the dog. However, it is crucial to provide sufficient mental stimulation. Mental and physical exercises can be combined with activities like agility courses, retrieving, herding, fieldworks, advanced training and many more. It will not only keep the dog busy but will also act as a suitable psychological stimulant. They are malleable and can adjust to any living conditions. If it is living in an apartment, it will require sufficient exercise to prevent odd behaviors. Moreover, they will be happy if they live in a house with a yard.
Grooming
The significant difference between the two parent breeds is their coats. It varies on a large scale and they have a wavy or curly fur and double or single coat. A dog which inherits the double layered coat from Sheltie will shed massively, and also require high maintenance than the single-layered dogs. On the other hand, dogs which inherit Poodles’will have an ever-growing coat which will need trimming regularly and random bathing than the dogs with coarser fur.
Additionally, nails should be trimmed two to three times a week with a nail clipper. Its ears will retain moisture and wax, which will need cleaning every week to prevent painful ear infection. Teeth brushing every twice or thrice a week will avert tartar collection and tooth decay.
Health Problems
Like other crossbreeds, it also suffers from few diseases which it inherits from its parents.
Major Problems
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Sebaceous Adenitis Ulcerative Dermatosis
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Canine Hip Dysplasia (Chd)
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Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat
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Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)
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von Willebrand's Disease
Minor Problems
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Diabetes
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Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
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Glaucoma
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Cataracts
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Color Dilution Alopecia
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Corneal Dystrophy
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Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)
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Deafness
Occasional tests
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Electrocardiograph (ECG - measures rate and rhythm)
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Response (BAER)
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Eye Examination
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Blood and Urine Tests
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X-rays or other radiographic imaging
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Brain Auditory Evoked
Occasional diagnosis
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Hypothyroidism
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Mitral Valve Dysplasia
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Malassezia Dermatitis/Otitis
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Cushing’s Disease
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Cardiomyopathy
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Epilepsy
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Cryptorchidism
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Lupus Erythematosus
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Hemophilia
However, random veteran checkups and occasional tests are recommended to keep the dog healthy and fit.
Training
Sheltidoodles are fast learners like Poodle. They obey orders quickly and learn orders and commands swiftly than the other dogs. However, a consistent and firm trainer is crucial to train this breed. Early socialization will help the dog to get used to unknown people and pets. Positive training methods like praises and treats will help the dog to learn quickly.
Feeding
It needs a high protein diet, especially during its growing days. These are highly energetic dogs and require meals that provide adequate nutrition. Homemade foods rich in protein or two cups of commercial dry dog food will be sufficient to keep up with its energy level.
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