Aussiedoodle vs Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
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
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
Also known as: Rough Collie, Lassie Dog, Scottish Collie, Long-Haired Collie
The Scottish Sheepdog Longhair, also known as the Rough Collie, is a highly intelligent and elegant herding breed renowned for its striking long coat, loyalty, and gentle temperament. Made famous by 'Lassie,' this breed was originally developed in the Scottish Highlands as a shepherd's dog and is now cherished as a devoted family companion.
Large
Medium
12-14 yrs
56-66 cm
Quick Comparison
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Large |
| Energy Level | High | Medium |
| Grooming | High | High |
| Trainability | Easy | Easy |
| Barking Level | High | High |
| Shedding Level | Medium | High |
| Chew strength | N/A | Moderate |
| Housing | Yard | Yard |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| 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. | Patient person or family who appreciates regular grooming as bonding time. Tolerant of barking or willing to train 'quiet' command. Enjoys moderate activity but not extreme athletics. Uses positive reinforcement training methods. |
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
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Dealbreakers
- Cannot tolerate barking
- Want a 'wash and go' dog - grooming is a hobby here
- Want a dog to jog 10 miles with you in July
- Use harsh training methods - they are 'soft' dogs that shut down
Surrender Risk
| Factor | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Barking - underestimated volume and frequency, Shedding/Grooming - extreme hair and time commitment, Lassie Effect - unrealistic expectations from TV show |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | High | High |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | High | Medium |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Artist | ||
| Dog Park Suitable | ||
| Off-Leash Reliable | ||
| Small Animal Safe | ||
| Leash Reactivity | ||
| Resource Guarding Risk | Low | Low |
Aussiedoodle Social Traits
Low
Generally friendly with dogs
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Social Traits
Moderate
Generally dog neutral to friendly. Same-sex aggression is rare.
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
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
- Keep sessions short (5-10 mins) and fun
- Harsh corrections will cause them to shut down or become fearful
- They are intelligent but not 'neurotic' about problem-solving like Border Collies
- Train 'quiet' command early to manage barking
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.
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Considerations
Bred to communicate with shepherds over long distances, Collies alert to everything: delivery trucks, neighbors, squirrels, and wind. Unlike a guard dog's warning bark, a Collie often barks to chat or express boredom. The bark is sharp and piercing.
Exceptionally sensitive to their environment. Thunderstorms, fireworks, and even loud arguments can cause significant distress. Poor candidates for chaotic households with constant screaming or slamming doors.
The spectacular coat requires weekly 45-60 minute line-brushing sessions. Surface brushing leaves the undercoat to mat, leading to 'felted' dogs that must be shaved - a disaster for double coats. This is a hobby, not a chore.
Young Collies may attempt to herd running children by nipping at heels. This is an arrested predatory sequence behavior, not aggression, but it can be frightening for small children and requires management.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | May harass by trying to herd them - can coexist if raised together | High safety - one of the best large breeds for multi-species homes. Low prey drive. |
| Small Mammals | Moderate risk - may harass guinea pigs/rabbits by poking/herding | Generally safe - may try to herd but rarely has grab-bite instinct |
| Birds / Reptiles | High risk - Poodle bird dog instinct + Aussie chase drive | Good with poultry if trained, though may harass if untrained |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Arrested | Arrested |
| Biddability | High | High |
| Noise Sensitivity | Medium | High |
| Territorial Barking | ||
| Same-Sex Aggression Onset | N/A | N/A |
Aussiedoodle: Eye -> Stalk -> Chase sequence from Aussie, Poodle adds retrieval mouthing. Generally safe with family but chase instinct is strong.
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair: Predatory sequence is Orient → Eye → Stalk → (Stop). They may stare at and follow cats but grab-bite is largely inhibited. They WANT to work with you - unlike Huskies who ask 'what's in it for me?' a Collie asks 'what do you want me to do?'
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 6-18 | 6-14 |
| House Training | Easy | Easy |
| 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).
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair: Collie puppies are generally polite and observant, easier than Labradors or high-drive breeds. Main challenges are noise sensitivity and socialization to prevent shyness. May need ear taping for classic semi-prick look (cosmetic only).
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 12 months | 12 months |
| Adolescence | 6-24 | 6-18 |
| Adult Years | 2-9 | 2-8 |
| Senior Onset | ~9 years | ~9 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 1-4 years | 1-3 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 35-58 cm | 56-66 cm |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Medium | Large |
| Lifespan | 10–14 years | 12–14 years |
| Litter Size | 6-8 | 6-10 |
Aussiedoodle Coat
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Designer companion combining intelligence and low-shedding coat | Gathering and droving sheep in the Scottish Highlands, farm guardianship |
| Origin | North America, late 1990s/early 2000s | Scottish Highlands and Northern England, 19th century |
Breeding Details
| Detail | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | Low | Low |
| Whelping Difficulty | Easy | Easy |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Low | Low |
Physical Risks
| Risk | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | Medium | High |
| Slippery Floor Risk | Low | Low |
| Min Fence Height | 1.8m | 1.3m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | Medium | Low |
Health & Common Conditions
Aussiedoodle Health Issues
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Health Issues
Aussiedoodle Suggested Tests
- MDR1 DNA test (MANDATORY)
- Hip Evaluation
- Eye Examination
- Adrenal Function Tests
- Skin Biopsy (if skin issues)
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Suggested Tests
- MDR1 (DNA) - CRITICAL
- CEA (DNA + Clinical Exam at 6-8 weeks)
- PRA-rcd2 (DNA)
- Hip Evaluation
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Low | Low |
| Cardiac Risk | Low | Low |
| Neurological Risk | Medium | Low |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | Medium | Low |
| Vet Burden Tier | Medium | Medium |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Medium | Low |
| Food Allergies | Chicken, Grains | Generally hardy |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Normal | Normal |
| Eye Care Needs | Medium | High |
| Anal Gland Issues | Rare | Rare |
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.
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis in hips/knees
- Cognitive decline
- Vision problems (CEA progression)
High risk of arthritis - introduce ramps for cars early to protect joints. Keep mentally engaged with nosework to slow cognitive decline.
Grooming & Care
Aussiedoodle
high maintenanceScottish Sheepdog Longhair
high maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
Aussiedoodle Daily Life
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | 25-50lbs (Mini) / Over 50lbs (Standard) | Over 50lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | High | Low |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Good |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | Medium | Medium |
| Therapy Dog | Medium | High |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Medium | Medium |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,200-3,500+ | $1,500-3,000 |
| Initial Cost Range | $1,200–$3,500 | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $200–$300 | $150–$250 |
| Yearly Range | $2,400–$3,600 | $2,000–$3,000 |
| Food / Month | $50-80 | $60-90 |
| Insurance / Month | $50-90 | $40-70 |
| Grooming / Session | $100-150 | $80-150 |
| Vet Routine / Year | $500-1,000 | $600-1,000 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
Aussiedoodle Lifetime Cost
$25,000-45,000
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Lifetime Cost
$25,000-40,000
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | Aussiedoodle | Scottish Sheepdog Longhair |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Rare | Rare |
| Slobber Level | None | None |
| Smell When Wet | Mild | Moderate |
| Zoomies Frequency | Daily | Weekly |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | Medium | Low |
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
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair Quirks
The Collie Nose
They use their long nose to poke, prod, and nudge you - their way of holding hands
The Greeter's Grin
Some Collies 'smile' (bare their teeth) when submissive or happy. Looks terrifying to strangers but is a sign of joy.
Air Snapping
May snap the air when excited or playing
The Off Switch
Unlike Border Collies, Rough Collies have a distinct 'off switch' and are often described as couch potatoes indoors
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 Scottish Sheepdog Longhair, 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:
Compare Scottish Sheepdog Longhair with:
Based on comprehensive breed research data.
View Aussiedoodle profile·View Scottish Sheepdog Longhair profile