Aussiedoodle vs Papillon
A side-by-side comparison to help you find the right breed for your lifestyle.
Aussiedoodle
Also known as: Aussiepoo, Aussie Poodle, Australian Shepherd Poodle Mix
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.
Medium
High
10-14 yrs
35-58 cm
18-32 kg
Papillon
Also known as: Continental Toy Spaniel, Butterfly Dog, Phalene (drop-eared variety)
The Papillon is a small, elegant toy breed known for its distinctive butterfly-like ears and lively, intelligent personality. Often called 'the Border Collie of the toy group,' this brilliant and athletic dog is packed into a 5-10 pound frame. With a friendly and playful demeanor, Papillons make excellent companions and are highly trainable, excelling in obedience and agility competitions.
Extra Small
High
14-16 yrs
20-28 cm
2.27-4.54 kg
Quick Comparison
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Detail | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Extra Small |
| Energy Level | High | High |
| Grooming | High | Medium |
| Trainability | Easy | Easy |
| Barking Level | High | High |
| Shedding Level | Medium | Medium |
| Chew strength | N/A | Light |
| Housing | Yard | Apartment |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Intermediate | Beginner with conditions |
| First-Time Owner | ||
| Ideal Owner | Active 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. | Adult or family with older children who wants an intelligent, trainable companion. Works from home or can provide midday companionship. Willing to commit to daily dental care and regular training sessions. |
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
Papillon Dealbreakers
- Households with children under 6 - risk of accidental injury too high
- Owners wanting a 'yard dog' - must live indoors as family
- Owners who want a silent home - they will bark
- Works 8+ hours away from home
Surrender Risk
| Factor | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Level | High | Low |
| Primary Reasons | He's too hyper - energy underestimated, He nips the kids - herding instinct, Grooming costs overwhelming, Cute puppy → High energy adolescent → Backyard isolation → Barking → Surrender | Owner death/illness (common with elderly owners), Fear-based biting when handled roughly by kids, Excessive barking incompatible with apartment neighbors |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | High | High |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | High | Medium |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Artist | ||
| Dog Park Suitable | ||
| Off-Leash Reliable | ||
| Small Animal Safe | ||
| Leash Reactivity | ||
| Resource Guarding Risk | Low | Moderate |
Aussiedoodle Social Traits
Low
Generally friendly with dogs
Papillon Social Traits
Moderate
May conflict with same-sex dogs if resources not managed
Training
Aussiedoodle
- 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
Papillon
- Never use harsh corrections - they are sensitive souls
- Use their intelligence - they LOVE learning new tricks
- Crate training highly recommended for potty training
- Pee pads/litter box valid for high-rise living
Aussiedoodle Considerations
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.
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.
Without a 'job' (agility, advanced obedience, nosework), their intelligence turns inward, resulting in obsessive-compulsive behaviors like shadow chasing or flank sucking.
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.
Papillon Considerations
Papillons possess boldness that disproportionately exceeds their size. They will challenge much larger dogs, leading to tragic outcomes if not protected. This is genuine territorial confidence, not 'yappiness'.
This is a 'velcro' breed bred for centuries as lap companions to nobility. They do not tolerate isolation well. Owners working 8+ hours away often find their Papillon develops severe distress behaviors.
While not mindless yappers, they are vigilant watchdogs. They will announce every delivery truck, doorbell, and passerby. In apartments with thin walls, this can become a lease-breaking issue.
Unlike sturdy Golden Retrievers, Papillons cannot be roughly handled. They are quick to snap if manhandled, making them a poor choice for households with toddlers who lack impulse control.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | May harass by trying to herd them - can coexist if raised together | Generally safe if raised with them, may harass with play attempts |
| Small Mammals | Moderate risk - may harass guinea pigs/rabbits by poking/herding | Caution required - ratter instinct still present |
| Birds / Reptiles | High risk - Poodle bird dog instinct + Aussie chase drive | Not recommended - spaniel heritage triggers chase |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Arrested | Arrested |
| Biddability | High | High |
| Noise Sensitivity | Medium | Medium |
| Territorial Barking | ||
| Same-Sex Aggression Onset | N/A | 12 months |
Aussiedoodle: Eye -> Stalk -> Chase sequence from Aussie, Poodle adds retrieval mouthing. Generally safe with family but chase instinct is strong.
Papillon: Predatory sequence: Eye -> Stalk -> Chase (grab-bite inhibited). They WANT to work with you - unlike terriers who ask 'What's in it for me?'. Same-sex aggression if resources (you, food, toys) not managed.
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 6-18 | 6-12 |
| House Training | Easy | Medium |
| Crate Training | Medium | High |
| 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).
Papillon: Physically fragile - main risk is trauma from being dropped or stepped on. Teething puppies will surgically chew electrical cords. Small bladders mean expect accidents for 6-8 months.
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 12 months | 10 months |
| Adolescence | 6-24 | 10-18 |
| Adult Years | 2-9 | 2-9 |
| Senior Onset | ~9 years | ~10 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 1-4 years | 1-5 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 35-58 cm | 20-28 cm |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Medium | Extra Small |
| Lifespan | 10–14 years | 14–16 years |
| Litter Size | 6-8 | 2-4 |
Aussiedoodle Coat
Papillon Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Designer companion combining intelligence and low-shedding coat | Continental Toy Spaniel - lap companion to European nobility, also ratters and flushers of small birds |
| Origin | North America, late 1990s/early 2000s | France/Belgium, 16th century |
Breeding Details
| Detail | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | Low | 20-30% |
| Whelping Difficulty | Easy | Medium |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Low | Medium |
Physical Risks
| Risk | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | Medium | None |
| Slippery Floor Risk | Low | Medium |
| Min Fence Height | 1.8m | 0.6m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | Medium | Low |
Health & Common Conditions
Aussiedoodle Health Issues
Papillon Health Issues
Aussiedoodle Suggested Tests
- MDR1 DNA test (MANDATORY)
- Hip Evaluation
- Eye Examination
- Adrenal Function Tests
- Skin Biopsy (if skin issues)
Papillon Suggested Tests
- Pap_PRA1 genetic test
- NAD genetic test
- OFA Patella evaluation
- OFA Eye certification (CAER)
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Low | Low |
| Cardiac Risk | Low | Low |
| Neurological Risk | Medium | Medium |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | Medium | Low |
| Vet Burden Tier | Medium | Medium |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Medium | Low |
| Food Allergies | Chicken, Grains |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Normal | Normal |
| Eye Care Needs | Medium | Low |
| Anal Gland Issues | Rare | Occasional |
Senior Care & Aging
Aussiedoodle Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis/joint stiffness
- Hip dysplasia progression
- Cognitive decline
- Vision loss (PRA)
Highly active brains can be prone to Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. Ramps may be needed for cars/beds.
Papillon Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis
- Vision/hearing loss
- Cognitive decline (sundowning)
- Dental deterioration
Long-lived breed (14-16 years). Ramps for furniture become essential to prevent jumping injuries. Some risk of confusion in very old age.
Grooming & Care
Aussiedoodle
high maintenancePapillon
medium maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
Aussiedoodle Daily Life
Papillon Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | 25-50lbs (Mini) / Over 50lbs (Standard) | Under 25lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | High | Low |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Excellent |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | Medium | Medium |
| Therapy Dog | Medium | Medium |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Medium | Low |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,200-3,500+ | $1,000-3,000 |
| Initial Cost Range | $1,200–$3,500 | $1,000–$3,000 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $200–$300 | $80–$130 |
| Yearly Range | $2,400–$3,600 | $960–$1,560 |
| Food / Month | $50-80 | $20-40 |
| Insurance / Month | $50-90 | $30-60 |
| Grooming / Session | $100-150 | $50-80 |
| Vet Routine / Year | $500-1,000 | $200-400 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
Aussiedoodle Lifetime Cost
$25,000-45,000
Papillon Lifetime Cost
$15,000-25,000
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | Aussiedoodle | Papillon |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Rare | Rare |
| Slobber Level | None | None |
| Smell When Wet | Mild | Mild |
| Zoomies Frequency | Daily | Daily |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | Medium | None |
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
Papillon Quirks
The Papillon 500
Daily zoomies where they run laps around furniture at high speed
Cat-like Perching
Often perch on backs of sofas or armchairs to survey their domain
Naturally Clean
Minimal doggy odor - mud falls off once dry, no clipping/shaving needed
Butterfly Ears
The distinctive fringed ears that give the breed its name (papillon = butterfly in French)
Frequently Asked Questions
Turn your dog into a brand deal.
Pet brands are looking for authentic creators — not celebrities. If you own a Aussiedoodle or Papillon, you can get free products, gear, and exclusive perks just for sharing your dog's life on Instagram.
No followers minimum · Free to join
Compare with Other Breeds
Compare Aussiedoodle with:
Based on comprehensive breed research data.