An Aussiedoodle is a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle, and size follows the Poodle parent: toys and minis stay under about 35 pounds, while standards reach roughly 70. Coats are wavy or curly and come in many colors, including merle. Shedding varies, and some dogs inherit an undercoat, so no coat is guaranteed low-shedding or allergy-proof.
Both parent breeds are clever working dogs, so many Aussiedoodles are affectionate, quick learners that want daily training and exercise. Without it they can turn vocal, restless or clingy. In New Orleans the humid air makes coat care a regular chore: plan on professional grooming every six to eight weeks and frequent brushing, since damp curls mat quickly. Dogs vary, so judge each one on its own behavior.