Australian Shepherd vs Chinese Crested
Breed Compatibility
85% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Chinese Crested: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Chinese Crested: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Chinese Crested: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Shepherd5/5
Chinese Crested3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Shepherd3/5
Chinese Crested3/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Shepherd3/5
Chinese Crested4/5
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
Chinese Crested
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Primary Lens Luxation: Eye condition
Glaucoma: Eye pressure disorder
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Cardiac Issues: Heart conditions
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
Chinese Crested
Pros
Excellent companion dog
Minimal shedding
Good for apartment living
Affectionate with family
Cons
Requires skin care (hairless variety)
Sensitive to extreme temperatures
Can be yappy
May be difficult to housebreak
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Chinese Crested Fun Fact
The hairless gene in Chinese Cresteds is actually incomplete dominance, resulting in some dogs being born with fur!
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.
Chinese Crested
Origin:
Developed in ancient China as companion dogs for Chinese sailors, these small dogs served as ratters on ships while traveling maritime trade routes during the Han dynasty.
Special Considerations
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Chinese Crested
Hairless variety needs sun protection and regular skin care. Both varieties require dental attention and protection from extreme temperatures.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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