Australian Shepherd vs English Toy Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
86% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
English Toy Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
English Toy Spaniel: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
English Toy Spaniel: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Shepherd5/5
English Toy Spaniel5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Shepherd3/5
English Toy Spaniel5/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Shepherd3/5
English Toy Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
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
English Toy Spaniel
Heart Disease: Mitral valve issues common
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Syringomyelia: Neurological condition
Dental Issues: Tooth overcrowding
Respiratory Issues: Due to flat face
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
English Toy Spaniel
Pros
Gentle temperament
Good with families
Adaptable to apartment living
Affectionate nature
Cons
Regular grooming needed
Health issues common
Can be stubborn
Temperature sensitive
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
English Toy Spaniel Fun Fact
King Charles II was so devoted to these spaniels that they were allowed to roam freely in all royal palaces.
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.
English Toy Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in England during the Tudor period as companions for nobility. Favored by King Charles II, these spaniels served as cherished royal lap dogs and palace 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.
English Toy Spaniel
Regular grooming needed for coat maintenance. Moderate exercise requirements. Health monitoring important due to breed-specific conditions.
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