American Foxhound vs Australian Shepherd
Breed Compatibility
87% Compatible
Energy Level
American Foxhound: Energetic0.8
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
American Foxhound: Independent0.4
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
American Foxhound: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
American Foxhound5/5
Australian Shepherd5/5
Good with Other Dogs
American Foxhound5/5
Australian Shepherd3/5
Good with Strangers
American Foxhound3/5
Australian Shepherd3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
American Foxhound
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Thrombocytopathy: Blood clotting disorder
Ear Infections: Due to long ears
Eye Problems: Various conditions possible
Epilepsy: Neurological condition risk
Dental Issues: Regular cleaning needed
Australian Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
CEA: Hereditary eye condition
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
Cataracts: Vision impairment risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development
Pros & Cons Comparison
American Foxhound
Pros
Excellent endurance
Good with families
Low grooming needs
Friendly nature
Cons
Strong prey drive
Independent nature
Needs lots of exercise
Can be vocal
Australian Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent work ethic
Versatile abilities
Strong protective instincts
Athletic and agile
Cons
High exercise needs
Intense herding instinct
Heavy shedding
Can be too energetic
Requires constant mental stimulation
American Foxhound Fun Fact
George Washington played a crucial role in developing the American Foxhound breed we know today.
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Heritage & Purpose
American Foxhound
Origin:
Developed in Virginia during the 1700s, these hounds excelled in fox hunting across challenging terrain. Their exceptional scenting abilities and stamina made them invaluable hunting companions.
Australian Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in western United States during the 1800s, these dogs excelled in herding livestock across challenging terrain. Their versatile skills and keen intelligence made them invaluable to ranchers.
Special Considerations
American Foxhound
Requires secure fencing due to strong prey drive. Regular exercise essential. Ear cleaning needed frequently. May be vocal - not ideal for noise-restricted areas.
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
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