Australian Shepherd vs Border Terrier
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Border Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Border Terrier: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Border Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Shepherd5/5
Border Terrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Shepherd3/5
Border Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Shepherd3/5
Border Terrier4/5
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
Border Terrier
Hip dysplasia: joint malformation
SLEM: spongiform encephalopathy
Heart defects: valve issues
Epilepsy: seizure disorder
Eye problems: progressive issues
Dental issues: tooth decay risk
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
Border Terrier
Pros
Excellent with families
Adaptable to different living situations
Low grooming requirements
Good with children
Cons
Can be stubborn
Strong prey drive
May dig and bark
Needs consistent exercise
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Border Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Border Terriers were bred to keep pace with horses during fox hunts!
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.
Border Terrier
Origin:
Developed in the border country between England and Scotland during the 18th century, these terriers excelled at hunting foxes and rodents in the rugged terrain.
Special Considerations
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Border Terrier
Regular brushing needed to maintain coat condition. Requires secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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