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Aussiedoodle vs Bullmastiff

A side-by-side comparison to help you find the right breed for your lifestyle.

CrossbreedDesigner
Aussiedoodle breed photo

Aussiedoodle

Also known as: Aussiepoo, Aussie Poodle, Australian Shepherd Poodle Mix

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The Aussiedoodle, also called Aussiepoo, brings together two of the smartest dog breeds—the Australian Shepherd and the Poodle. This designer breed is known for its exceptional intelligence, boundless energy, and stunning coat that often features the merle patterns of the Aussie parent. Aussiedoodles excel in agility, obedience, and as active family companions who thrive on mental and physical stimulation.

Size

Medium

Energy

High

Lifespan

10-14 yrs

Height

35-58 cm

Weight

18-32 kg

VS
Bullmastiff breed photo

Bullmastiff

AKCFCIKC

The Bullmastiff is a large, powerful, and loyal breed known for its protective nature and gentle temperament. Originally bred in England as a gamekeeper's companion to guard estates, this breed combines the strength of a Mastiff with the agility of a Bulldog.

Size

Extra Large

Energy

Medium

Lifespan

7-9 years yrs

Height

N/A

Quick Comparison

TraitAussiedoodleBullmastiff
Energy
Trainability
Grooming Needs
Family Friendly
Independence

Key Characteristics

Good with Kids
Good with Dogs
Good with Cats
Hypoallergenic
Apartment Friendly
First-Time Owner OK
DetailAussiedoodleBullmastiff
SizeMediumExtra Large
Energy LevelHighMedium
GroomingHighMedium
TrainabilityEasychallenging
Barking LevelHighLow
Shedding LevelMediumMedium
Chew strengthN/AHard
HousingYardYard

Owner Fit & Decision Guide

Owner Match

TraitAussiedoodleBullmastiff
Experience LevelIntermediateExperienced
First-Time Owner
Ideal OwnerActive individual or family who works from home or has flexible schedule. Experienced with high-energy breeds. Ready for significant grooming commitment. Enjoys training and dog sports.Active individual or family who can provide adequate exercise and training for a Bullmastiff.

Aussiedoodle Dealbreakers

  • Sedentary lifestyle - if you want a couch dog after a 20-minute walk
  • Long work hours - 8+ hours away from home daily
  • Budget constraints - $100/month grooming is a hardship
  • No yard or outdoor space

Bullmastiff Dealbreakers

  • Cannot meet 60-60 min daily exercise
  • Cannot commit to grooming needs

Surrender Risk

FactorAussiedoodleBullmastiff
Risk LevelHighMedium
Primary ReasonsHe's too hyper - energy underestimated, He nips the kids - herding instinct, Grooming costs overwhelming, Cute puppy → High energy adolescent → Backyard isolation → Barking → SurrenderUnderestimated exercise needs, Behavioral challenges, Cost of care

Temperament & Personality

Behavior Comparison

TraitAussiedoodleBullmastiff
Prey Drive
Watchdog Ability
Stranger Friendly
Drool Level
Wanderlust

Vocalization

TraitAussiedoodleBullmastiff
Barking LevelHighLow
Howling Tendency
Whining TendencyHighLow
Separation Vocalization
Aussiedoodle bark triggers
Strangers approachingDelivery trucksDoorbellMovement outsideBoredom
Bullmastiff bark triggers
StrangersDoorbellsOther dogs

Safety & Reliability

TraitAussiedoodleBullmastiff
Escape Artist
Dog Park Suitable
Off-Leash Reliable
Small Animal Safe
Leash Reactivity
Resource Guarding RiskLowLow

Aussiedoodle Social Traits

Velcro Dog
One Person Dog
Handling ToleranceHigh
Stranger Wariness

Low

With Other Dogs

Generally friendly with dogs

Bullmastiff Social Traits

Velcro Dog
One Person Dog
Handling ToleranceMedium
Stranger Wariness

Moderate

With Other Dogs

Selective

Training

Aussiedoodle

MethodPositive reinforcement
Repetitions to Learn<5
Challenges
They learn bad behaviors just as quickly (opening cabinets, unlatching gates)Harsh methods trigger Aussie sensitivity or Poodle neuroticismCan become stubborn if training lacks engagement
Tips
  • Use food motivation for rapid learning
  • Keep sessions short and varied to maintain interest
  • Channel herding instinct into controlled activities
  • Start bite inhibition training early for nipping

Bullmastiff

MethodPositive reinforcement
Challenges
forced running or jogging on pavement until growth plates close (18–24 months).
Tips
  • ** Positive reinforcement is the only viable path. Harsh corrections often cause this breed to shut down or become defensive.

Aussiedoodle Considerations

dealbreakerSeparation Anxiety

Both parent breeds are 'Velcro' dogs selected for close human cooperation. Aussiedoodles often cannot tolerate isolation, leading to destructive chewing, self-mutilation, and incessant vocalization if left alone for standard workdays.

challengeHerding Nipping

The Australian Shepherd's herding instinct manifests as nipping heels of running children, chasing bicycles, or attempting to control movement of other pets. Requires consistent training from puppyhood.

dealbreakerNeurotic Energy Without a Job

Without a 'job' (agility, advanced obedience, nosework), their intelligence turns inward, resulting in obsessive-compulsive behaviors like shadow chasing or flank sucking.

challengeMandatory Professional Grooming

Unlike purebred Aussies, the coat grows continuously. Professional grooming is mandatory every 6-8 weeks at $100-150 per session. Matting can cause skin damage.

Bullmastiff Considerations

challengeSame-Sex Aggression

This is a genetically rooted trait in many Bullmastiffs. While they may coexist peacefully with dogs of the opposite sex, placing two males or two females together often results in severe conflict once they reach social maturity (18–24 months). This aggression is rarely "cured" through training; it is managed.

challengeStubborn Independence

Bred to track and hold poachers silently without human direction, the Bullmastiff is an independent problem solver. They do not have the "will to please" of a Golden Retriever. If a command does not make sense to them, they will simply ignore it. This is often misinterpreted as stupidity; it is actually a refusal to perform rote tasks without high-value motivation.

challengeThe "Velcro" Guardian

While independent in thought, they are physically clingy. They will lean their 120-pound bodies against you, sit on your feet, and follow you from room to room. This constant physical presence can be overwhelming for owners who value personal space.

Multi-Species Compatibility

SpeciesAussiedoodleBullmastiff
With CatsMay harass by trying to herd them - can coexist if raised togetherGenerally safe with proper introduction
Small MammalsModerate risk - may harass guinea pigs/rabbits by poking/herdingSupervision required
Birds / ReptilesHigh risk - Poodle bird dog instinct + Aussie chase driveCaution advised

Advanced Behavior

TraitAussiedoodleBullmastiff
Predatory Sequence RiskArrestedMedium
BiddabilityHighLow
Noise SensitivityMediumLow
Territorial Barking
Same-Sex Aggression OnsetN/A18 months

Aussiedoodle: Eye -> Stalk -> Chase sequence from Aussie, Poodle adds retrieval mouthing. Generally safe with family but chase instinct is strong.

First Year & Life Stages

First Year Challenges

ChallengeAussiedoodleBullmastiff
Puppy Difficulty
Destructive Phase6-186-18
House TrainingEasyModerate
Crate TrainingMediumMedium
Adolescent Regression

Aussiedoodle: Combines mouthiness with herding nipping and high intelligence. Will outsmart novice owners. Harder than a Cavalier (2/10) but easier than a Malinois (9/10).

Bullmastiff: Bullmastiff puppies require consistent training and patience.

Life Stages Timeline

StageAussiedoodleBullmastiff
Puppy Phase12 months12 months
Adolescence6-246-18
Adult Years2-92-8
Senior Onset~9 years~8 years
Peak Energy Age1-4 years1-3 years

Size & Physical Characteristics

Physical Stats

MeasurementAussiedoodleBullmastiff
Height35-58 cmN/A
WeightNot enough data yetNot enough data yet
Size CategoryMediumExtra Large
Lifespan

10–14 years

7–9 years

Litter Size6-84-8

Aussiedoodle Coat

Type single or double (varies)
Length medium to long
Texture wavy to curly
Colors
Blue MerleRed MerleTri-colorParti-colorBlackRedChocolate

Bullmastiff Coat

Type double
Length Medium
Texture straight
Colors
Various

Lineage & Origin

DetailAussiedoodleBullmastiff
Original PurposeDesigner companion combining intelligence and low-shedding coatDeveloped in mid-19th century England, the Bullmastiff was created by gamekeepers to combat poachers
OriginNorth America, late 1990s/early 2000sN/A

Breeding Details

DetailAussiedoodleBullmastiff
C-Section RateLowVaries
Whelping DifficultyEasyMedium
Puppy Mortality RateLowLow

Physical Risks

RiskAussiedoodleBullmastiff
Bloat / GDV RiskMediumLow
Slippery Floor RiskLowLow
Min Fence Height1.8m1.5m
Dig / Escape RiskMediumLow

Health & Common Conditions

Aussiedoodle Health Issues

MDR1 Drug Sensitivity~50%
Hip Dysplasia12-20%
Sebaceous AdenitisUnknown
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)Unknown
Addison's DiseaseUnknown

Bullmastiff Health Issues

Lymphoma
Hip Dysplasia
Elbow Dysplasia
Gastric Dilatation-VolvulusBloat
Subaortic StenosisSAS

Aussiedoodle Suggested Tests

  • MDR1 DNA test (MANDATORY)
  • Hip Evaluation
  • Eye Examination
  • Adrenal Function Tests
  • Skin Biopsy (if skin issues)

Bullmastiff Suggested Tests

  • OFA/PennHIP for hip/elbow dysplasia
  • Echocardiogram for cardiac issues
  • CERF for eye conditions
  • Prophylactic gastropexy

Health Risk Overview

Risk FactorAussiedoodleBullmastiff
Cancer RiskLowMedium
Cardiac RiskLowLow
Neurological RiskMediumLow
CCL/ACL Tear RiskMediumLow
Vet Burden TierMediumMedium

Sensitivities & Allergies

SensitivityAussiedoodleBullmastiff
Skin Allergies
Environmental Allergies
Stomach SensitivityMediumLow
Food AllergiesChicken, Grains

Health Maintenance

Care ItemAussiedoodleBullmastiff
Nail Growth RateNormalNormal
Eye Care NeedsMediumLow
Anal Gland IssuesRareOccasional

Senior Care & Aging

Aussiedoodle Senior Care

Common Senior Issues

  • Arthritis/joint stiffness
  • Hip dysplasia progression
  • Cognitive decline
  • Vision loss (PRA)
Mobility Aid LikelihoodMedium
QoL Decline Age~11 years
End of Life ComplexityMedium

Highly active brains can be prone to Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. Ramps may be needed for cars/beds.

Bullmastiff Senior Care

Common Senior Issues

  • Arthritis
  • Vision decline
  • Cognitive changes
Mobility Aid LikelihoodMedium
QoL Decline Age~10 years
End of Life ComplexityMedium

Senior care varies by individual health.

Grooming & Care

Aussiedoodle

high maintenance
Coat Typesingle or double (varies)
Coat Lengthmedium to long
Coat Texturewavy to curly
Shedding LevelMedium
Seasonal SheddingModerate
Ear Cleaningweekly
Dental RiskMedium
Obesity Prone
Winter Gear Needed
Summer Restrictions
Paw Protection
Odor LevelLow
Tactile FeelSoft/Silky (Fleece coat) to Wooly/Coarse (Curly coat)
Colors
Blue MerleRed MerleTri-colorParti-colorBlackRedChocolate

Bullmastiff

medium maintenance
Coat Typedouble
Coat Lengthmedium
Coat Texturestraight
Shedding LevelMedium
Seasonal SheddingMedium
Ear Cleaningweekly
Dental RiskMedium
Obesity Prone
Winter Gear Needed
Summer Restrictions
Paw Protection
Odor LevelModerate
Tactile FeelVaries by coat type
Colors
Various

Lifestyle Compatibility

Aussiedoodle Daily Life

Exercise Needs90-120 min/day
Alone TimeUp to 4h
Mental StimulationVery High
ApartmentPoor - alert barking makes them nuisance neighbors, need space to run
Work from HomeExcellent - will sleep at your feet but may demand-bark during Zoom calls
Weekend WarriorPoor - cannot crate Mon-Fri and expect sanity for Saturday hike, no metabolic off-switch
HousingYard
Barking LevelHigh
First-Time Owner
Exercise Types
High-intensity fetch/frisbeeRunning/hikingSwimmingAgility coursesNosework/scent games
NighttimeWill sleep near owner, may need to be on bed or touching
Food MotivationHigh

Bullmastiff Daily Life

Exercise Needs30-45 min/day
Alone TimeUp to 4h
Mental StimulationMedium
ApartmentChallenging - needs space
Work from HomeSuitable with adequate exercise
Weekend WarriorSuitable
HousingYard
Barking LevelLow
First-Time Owner
Exercise Types
WalkingPlayTraining
NighttimeSleeps well when exercised
Food MotivationMedium

Housing & Legal Restrictions

RestrictionAussiedoodleBullmastiff
BSL Restricted
Common Rental Ban
Insurance Blacklist
Weight Category25-50lbs (Mini) / Over 50lbs (Standard)Under 50lbs

Climate Tolerance

ClimateAussiedoodleBullmastiff
Heat Tolerance
Cold Tolerance
Water AffinityHighMedium

Travel Compatibility

ActivityAussiedoodleBullmastiff
Car TravelGoodGood
Camping
Beach Friendly
Hiking Rating
Cabin Flight Eligible
Hotel Friendly Size

Niche Suitability

RoleAussiedoodleBullmastiff
Service DogMediumLow
Therapy DogMediumLow
Deep Pressure Therapy
Canicross / Bikejoring
Apartment Adaptable
Tactile / Sensory Friendly
Livestock Guardian
Medical AlertMediumLow

Costs & Expenses

Upfront Costs

CostAussiedoodleBullmastiff
Purchase Price$1,200-3,500+N/A
Initial Cost Range$1,200–$3,500$1,000–$2,500
Cost Tier

Ongoing Costs

CostAussiedoodleBullmastiff
Monthly Range$200–$300$180–$300
Yearly Range$2,400–$3,600$2,160–$3,600
Food / Month$50-80$100-150
Insurance / Month$50-90$80-150
Grooming / Session$100-150N/A
Vet Routine / Year$500-1,000$500-800
Monthly Cost Tier

Aussiedoodle Lifetime Cost

$25,000-45,000

Bullmastiff Lifetime Cost

N/A

Quirks & Fun Facts

Daily Quirks

QuirkAussiedoodleBullmastiff
Snoring
FlatulenceRareOccasional
Slobber LevelNoneLow
Smell When WetMildModerate
Zoomies FrequencyDailyOccasional
Counter Surfing
Digging TendencyMediumLow

Aussiedoodle Quirks

The Aussie Lean

Will lean their entire body weight against you as a sign of affection

Goose-ing

May nip the butts or heels of guests as they leave the house (herding instinct)

Counter Surfing

Intelligence allows them to solve 'kitchen puzzles' to get food

The Stare

Inherited from Aussie parent - intense eye contact to get your attention

Frequently Asked Questions

Aussiedoodles can be good for active families with older children. They may nip the heels of toddlers due to herding instincts inherited from the Australian Shepherd parent. They require significant daily exercise and mental stimulation that busy families may struggle to provide.
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Compare with Other Breeds

Based on comprehensive breed research data.

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