Australian Cattle Dog vs Labrador Retriever
Breed Compatibility
74% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Cattle Dog: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Labrador Retriever: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Australian Cattle Dog: May be Stubborn0.2
Labrador Retriever: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Cattle Dog: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Labrador Retriever: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Cattle Dog3/5
Labrador Retriever5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Cattle Dog3/5
Labrador Retriever5/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Cattle Dog3/5
Labrador Retriever5/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Australian Cattle Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss risk
OCD: Obsessive behavioral patterns
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Eye Problems: Various ocular concerns
Labrador Retriever
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
PRA: Progressive eye deterioration
Exercise-Induced Collapse: Activity limit
Bloat: Digestive emergency risk
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Pros & Cons Comparison
Australian Cattle Dog
Pros
Extremely loyal and protective
Highly intelligent
Excellent work ethic
Great endurance
Low grooming needs
Cons
High exercise requirements
Can be stubborn
May nip at heels
Needs constant mental stimulation
Can be territorial
Labrador Retriever
Pros
Excellent family dog
Highly trainable
Great with children
Versatile working ability
Cons
Heavy shedding
High exercise needs
Prone to weight gain
Chewing tendency in puppyhood
Australian Cattle Dog Fun Fact
These dogs often have a unique mask-like marking around their eyes, earning them the nickname 'masked merle.'
Labrador Retriever Fun Fact
Labrador Retrievers have a special gene that makes them obsessed with food, contributing to their trainability!
Heritage & Purpose
Australian Cattle Dog
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1800s for cattle herding in harsh outback conditions. These dogs were bred to manage livestock across vast distances with minimal supervision.
Labrador Retriever
Origin:
Developed in Newfoundland during the 1800s, these dogs worked alongside fishermen retrieving nets and fish, later refined in England as sporting and hunting companions.
Special Considerations
Australian Cattle Dog
Needs extensive exercise and mental stimulation daily. Regular brushing required during shedding seasons. Early socialization crucial for balanced temperament.
Labrador Retriever
Regular grooming needed during heavy shedding seasons. Exercise requirements must be met daily. Weight management crucial to prevent obesity-related health issues.
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