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German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd Comparison – Which dog is better Alsatian wolf dog or Little Blue Dog?

"Find similarities and differences between German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd" Compare German Shepherd and Australian Shepherd. Which is better: German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd?
 
 
 
Name German Shepherd Australian Shepherd
OriginsGermany flagGermany United States flagUnited States
Group Pastoral / Herding Dogs Pastoral / Herding Dogs
Popularity Rank217
Reviews197
User Ratings

Other Names
What other names do they have?
Alsatian wolf dog
Berger Allemand
Deutscher Schäferhund
Schäferhund
Alsatian
Little Blue Dog
Aussie
Breed Type
Which dog is purebred or crossbreed? German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd breed type comparison:
Purebred Purebred

German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd Size and Weight Comparison

Size
Which dog is bigger, German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd? Is the German Shepherd bigger than the Australian Shepherd breed? Is a German Shepherd smaller than an Australian Shepherd?
Large Large
Weight
Which is heavier, German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd? German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd weight comparison:
Male: 66-88 pounds (30-40 kg), Female: 49-71 pounds (22-32 kg) Male: 50-65 pounds (25-29 kg), Female: 40-55 pounds (18-25 kg)
Average Weight
Which dog has a smaller / higher average weight?
Male: 77 pounds (35 kg), Female: 60 pounds (27 kg) Male: 57.5 pounds (27 kg), Female: 47.5 pounds (21.5 kg)
Height
Which is taller, German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd? Is a German Shepherd taller than an Australian Shepherd?
Male: 24-26 inches (60-65 cm), Female: 22-24 inches (55-60 cm) Male: 20-23 inches (52-58cm), Female: 18-21 inches (46–53 cm)
Average Height
Which dog has a smaller / higher average height?
Male: 25 inches (62.5 cm), Female: 23 inches (57.5 cm) Male: 21.5 inches (55 cm), Female: 19.5 inches (46–53 cm)

German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd Price and Availability Comparison

Price
Which is cheaper, German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd? Which is more expensive? What is the difference in price between German Shepherd and Australian Shepherd?
$800-$2000 $600-$800
Availability
Which is easier to get, German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd?
Very frequent: The German Shepherd is quite easy to get.
Very frequent: The Australian Shepherd is quite easy to get.

German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

Intelligent Rank
Which dog has more intelligence? Is a German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd smarter? Which is best? German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd intelligence:
Outstanding: German Shepherd is one of the brightest dog breeds.
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Smart: The Australian Shepherd dogs have great intelligence.
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Trainability
German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd trainability comparison. What's the difference between German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd?
German Shepherd dogs are easy to train.
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Australian Shepherd dogs are very easy to train.
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Watchdog Ability
Which is the better watchdog: German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd?
German Shepherd dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
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Australian Shepherd dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
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Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Which is a better guard dog German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd? Which dog is most likely to protect its owner? Which is the best dog to use for protection?
German Shepherd dogs are extremely protective guard dogs.
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Australian Shepherd dogs are extremely protective guard dogs.
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German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd Personality and Temperament Comparison

Temperament
Which one has a better personality? Which is a better family dog, German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd? German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd behavior/temperament comparison:
Curious
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Confident
Obedient
Loyal
Watchful
Active
Loving
Protective
Intelligent
Friendly
Affectionate
Good-natured
Sensitivity Level
Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference between German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd?
Sensitive: German Shepherd dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.
See more.
Sensitive: Australian Shepherd dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.
See more.
Affection Level
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd?
High: German Shepherd dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
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Average to High: Australian Shepherd dogs are highly affectionate dogs.
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Social Needs
German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd social needs comparison:
German Shepherd dogs need for social interaction is average.
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Australian Shepherd dogs are a social breed.
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Impulse to Wander or Roam
Which dog has a greater roaming instinct? What's the difference between German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd?
German Shepherd dogs are not the biggest explorers.
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Australian Shepherd dogs are not the biggest explorers.
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Prey Drive
Which dog has a higher prey drive? What's the difference between German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd? Which can be better for hunting?
German Shepherd dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds.
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Australian Shepherd dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds.
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German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd Activity and Playfulness Comparison

Playfulness
German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd playfulness comparison:
Average: German Shepherds, like any other dog breed, like playing.
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The Australian Shepherd is a highly playful breed.
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Barking
Which dog barks more/less: German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd?
Low to Average: The German Shepherd rarely barks.
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Low to Average: The Australian Shepherd rarely barks.
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Apartment Friendly
Which dog is more apartment friendly German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd?
It is not the best choice if you want to keep them indoors, however, with careful exercise and several walks a day, they will tolerate the indoor environment, so it is possible to keep German Shepherd indoors.
It is not the best choice if you want to keep them indoors, however, with careful exercise and several walks a day, they will tolerate the indoor environment, so it is possible to keep Australian Shepherd indoors.

German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd Adaptability and Independence Comparison

Adaptability
Which dog has a higher adaptability potential? Which is the better dog?
German Shepherd dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Australian Shepherd dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
Which dog can be left alone: German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd?
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner.
Australian Shepherd dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd Bite Characteristics Comparison

Bite Force PSI
Which bite is stronger: German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

German Shepherd bite force: Ordinary.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Australian Shepherd bite force: Ordinary.
Biting Potential
Is a German Shepherd more dangerous than an Australian Shepherd?

High 🔼

The German Shepherd has a high chance of biting somebody.

Low 🔽

The Australian Shepherd has a low chance of biting somebody.
Mouthiness
Which is the better dog? German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd mouthiness comparison:
German Shepherd dogs have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people.
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Australian Shepherd dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
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German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd Health and Lifespan Comparison

Health Issues
German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd health comparison. Which is the healthier: German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd?
German Shepherds are commonly healthy dogs.
The Australian Shepherd is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Health Problems
Which one has more or less genetic/health problems: German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd health problems comparison:
Cataracts
Hip Dysplasia
Allergies
Cancer
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Von Willebrand's Disease
Bloat
Epilepsy
Blindness
Cherry Eye
Elbow Dysplasia
Diabetes
Heart Disease
Retinal Dysplasia
Demodectic Mange
Degenerative Myelopathy
Wobbler's Syndrome
Panosteitis
Hemophilia B
Megaesophagus
Cushing's Syndrome
Lens Luxation
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency
Chronic Diarrhea
Cruciate Ligament Rupture
Digestive Problems
Hemophilia A
Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy
Lupus
Myasthenia Gravis
Nail Bed Disease
Osteochondrosis
Pannus
Paralysis
Perianal Fistula
Seborrhea
Vitiligo
Cataracts
Hip Dysplasia
Allergies
Cancer
Hypothyroidism
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Epilepsy
Deafness
Drug Sensitivity
Elbow Dysplasia
Distichiasis
Collie Eye Anomaly
Detached Retina
Nasal Solar Dermatitis
Osteochondrosis Dissecans
Persistent Pupillary Membranes
Veterinarian Visits
Which one may need more or less veterinary visits: German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd?
Rare
The German Shepherd should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year).
Average
The Australian Shepherd should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Life Expectancy
German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd lifespan comparison. How long do German Shepherd and Australian Shepherd breeds live? Which one has a longer lifespan/life expectancy? What is the age limit of the German Shepherd and Australian Shepherd?
9-13 years
The average lifespan of German Shepherd: 11 years
11-15 years
The average lifespan of Australian Shepherd: 13 years
Weather and Climate
Which dog is best for hot or cold weather: German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd?
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur.
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Prefers average to cold weather conditions
The Australian Shepherd can adapt to well to cold weather conditions, some dogs even can be a good mountain dog.
See more.

German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd Energy and Activity Comparison

Energy Level
Who has more energy a German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd? German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd energy level comparison:
German Shepherd dogs are high-energy dogs.
Australian Shepherd dogs are high-energy dogs.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd exercise need comparison. Which dog needs more activity? Which dog needs the most exercise: German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd? Which dog needs the most walking? Which dog is the laziest?
German Shepherd dogs need quite a lot of exercise.
Australian Shepherd dogs need a lot of exercises.
Sleeping Need
Which one sleeps the least/most: German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd?
German Shepherd dogs don't need too much sleep.
Australian Shepherd dogs don't need too much sleep.

German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd Diet and Weight Management Comparison

Average daily food consumption
Which dog eats more: German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd? Does the German Shepherd breed eat more than the Australian Shepherd breed?
3 to 4 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. 1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
Which dog breed is more prone to obesity? German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd weight gain potential comparison:
Low to Average: The German Shepherd has a low to the average risk for obesity.
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Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Australian Shepherd's weight, he can easily gain weight.
See more.

German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd Allergies and Grooming Comparison

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat/fur do they have? German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd coat comparison:
Fuzzy Feathered
Colors
What are the original German Shepherd and Australian Shepherd color? German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd color comparison:
Black
Tan
Red
Silver
Black
Red
Blue
Merle
Grooming
Which dog is easy to maintain, German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd? German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd grooming comparison:
Average: The German Shepherd requires average grooming effort.
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Average: The Australian Shepherd requires average grooming effort.
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Shedding Level
Who sheds more German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd? Do German Shepherd dogs shed more than Australian Shepherd dogs?
German Shepherd dogs are heavy shedders.
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Australian Shepherd dogs shed moderately.
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Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
Which dog should be bathed more: German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd?
8-12 weeks
Very rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one.
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6-8 weeks
Rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one.
See more.
Hypoallergenic
German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd hypoallergenic comparison. Which dog is hypoallergenic or not?
No See more. No See more.
Stinkiness
Which dog breed smells the least? Which dog smells the most? Which is best, German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd?

Medium

The German Shepherd has an average chance of bad smell.

Medium

The Australian Shepherd has an average chance of bad smell.
Drooling Tendency
Which dog drools the most? Which dog drools the least? What's the difference between German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd?
The German Shepherd is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
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The Australian Shepherd is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
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German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd Good With Comparison

Pet Friendly
Which dog breeds get along well with other animals/pets?
German Shepherd dogs are generally with other pets.
Australian Shepherd dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Which dog is more stranger friendly German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd? Which dog is more friendly?
German Shepherd dogs are stranger-friendly dogs.
Australian Shepherd dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Which dog is more child/kid friendly German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd?
German Shepherd dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
Australian Shepherd dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
Cat Friendly
Which dog is more cat friendly German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd?
German Shepherd dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Australian Shepherd dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Which dog is more dog friendly German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd? Can a German Shepherd and an Australian Shepherd be friends? Do German Shepherd dogs get along with Australian Shepherd dogs?
German Shepherd dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs.
Australian Shepherd dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Which dog is best for first time owners: German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd?
Yes
German Shepherd dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Yes
Australian Shepherd dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Which one fits better in the office?
No
German Shepherd is not the best dog breed for office environment.
No
Australian Shepherd is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Which dog is good for elderly people?
German Shepherds are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
Australian Shepherds are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd As a Working Dog Comparison

Service Dog
Which one could be a service dog?

Yes

This breed makes good as a service dog.
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Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog.
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Therapy Dog
Which one could be a therapy dog: German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd? Which is better for autism?

Yes

This breed makes a perfect therapy dog.
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Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog.
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Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Which one could be a detection/sniffer dog?

Yes

After proper training, they can excel at this kind of work.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases.
Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Which one could be a search and rescue dog?

Yes

This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog.
Boat and Sailor Dog
Which one could be a boat dog: German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd?

Not really

German Shepherd breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
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Not really

Australian Shepherd breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
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Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Which one could be a cart pulling or drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
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Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
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Fighting Dog / Military Dog

Yes

In history, this breed was unfortunately used for combat dogs.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd Reproducibility Comparison

Gestation Length 60-64 days See more. 60-64 days See more.
Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
See more.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
See more.
Litter Size
How many puppies can German Shepherd and Australian Shepherd have? German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd litter size comparison:
6-10 puppies 6-9 puppies, average 7

German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd Recognition Comparison

AKC Group
Which dog is recognized by the AKC?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1908 as a Herding breed. Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1991 as a Herding breed.
FCI Group
Which dog is recognized by the FCI?
Recognized by FCI in the Sheepdogs and Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs) group, in the Sheepdogs section. Recognized by FCI in the Sheepdogs and Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs) group, in the Sheepdogs section.
Breed Recognition
What other organizations and kennel clubs recognize these dog breeds?
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
German Shepherd Dog Club Of America
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Dog Registry of America Inc.
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Australian Shepherd Club Of America

Rate This Comparsion - German Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd

Reviews

  • Diane

    Nov 26, 2019, 8:34:20 AM:

    Very helpful

  • Kaitlyn

    Feb 25, 2020, 7:29:43 PM:

    this site was very usefull for my project