Australian Shepherd vs American Foxhound
Breed Compatibility
87% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
American Foxhound: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
American Foxhound: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
American Foxhound: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Shepherd5/5
American Foxhound5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Shepherd3/5
American Foxhound5/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Shepherd3/5
American Foxhound3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
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
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
Pros & Cons Comparison
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
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 Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
American Foxhound Fun Fact
George Washington played a crucial role in developing the American Foxhound breed we know today.
Heritage & Purpose
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.
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.
Special Considerations
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
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.
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