A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing? 7 Dog Breeds That Look Like Sheep

Ever heard of a dog in sheep’s clothing? Believe it or not, there’s a variety of dog breeds that bear an uncanny resemblance to lambs and sheep, making them the ultimate masters of disguise. With coats that shed less than average, they’re perfect for allergy-prone households. Plus, walking one of these breeds might just turn a few heads in your neighborhood! If you’re in the market for a canine companion with a curly, thick coat reminiscent of a sheep, look no further.

Cockapoo

The Cockapoo, a crossbreed of Poodle and Cocker Spaniel, boasts a wavy, long coat reminiscent of a sheep’s fleece. They’re highly active and thrive on cuddling with their family. Their dislike for solitude makes them ideal companions for affectionate families, as they crave love and attention. While they may shed a bit more than other breeds, their loving nature more than makes up for it.

Goldendoodle

The Goldendoodle, a charming mixed breed, often resembles sheep, depending on its lineage. Though not officially recognized, many consider them a distinct breed. With an elongated head and dense, curly coat, they bear a striking resemblance to sheep, often drawing comparisons to Merino sheep. Despite their sheep-like appearance, they’re highly intelligent and excel as working dogs, although you’ll want to keep an eye on them if they start herding sheep!

Table of Contents

Spanish Water Dog

Spanish Water Dogs, typically bicolored or unicolored, often bear a resemblance to sheep breeds such as the Awassi sheep due to their similar color patterns. However, they require more maintenance compared to other breeds on this list. Regular brushing, ideally 2-3 times per day, is necessary to maintain their hygiene and coat condition. Additionally, they thrive on ample exercise to keep their minds stimulated and active.

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a smaller breed known for its silky, unruly, curly coat, often likened to the Merino sheep due to its slight yellow tint. While born dark, their coat lightens with age. Highly social, they thrive on interaction and require daily play and exercise to stay happy and healthy. Regular brushing is essential to keep their coat smooth and free from mats.

Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier is often mistaken for a sheep, bearing a striking resemblance to the Herdwick sheep with its elongated snout and shaggy coat. Their lack of a stop on the snout contributes to their sheep-like appearance. These dogs sport dense, long, curly, and shaggy coats, further enhancing their resemblance to sheep. While they can be stubborn, they thrive in loving homes and become affectionate companions. Without proper socialization, however, they may struggle with tolerance towards people and other animals.

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is renowned not just for resembling a sheep but also for its incredibly fluffy appearance, with soft, silky fur akin to a passing cloud. Despite their resemblance, their dark eyes and snout distinguish them. They’re low shedders, making them suitable for those with mild allergies, although they’re not entirely hypoallergenic. These small, playful dogs require plenty of exercise to stay mentally stimulated and sociable.

Poodle

Poodles are an obvious inclusion in any discussion of dog breeds resembling sheep, given their white, fluffy coats and long legs that mirror sheep’s appearance. As puppies, they’re often mistaken for lambs due to their small, fluffy stature and long legs. With proper grooming, their fur develops a woolly texture, further enhancing the resemblance to sheep. While they shed minimally, regular brushing and grooming are essential to maintain their appearance. Poodles’ intelligence makes them well-suited for families looking to train and bond with their pets.