Australian Shepherd vs Harrier
Breed Compatibility
88% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Harrier: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Harrier: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Harrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Shepherd5/5
Harrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Shepherd3/5
Harrier5/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Shepherd3/5
Harrier4/5
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
Harrier
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Epilepsy: Neurological seizure disorder
Eye Problems: Various vision concerns
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid hormone deficiency
Bloat: Gastric dilatation-volvulus risk
Ear Infections: Common due to drop ears
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
Harrier
Pros
Excellent family companion
Good with children
Athletic and energetic
Social and friendly
Low grooming needs
Cons
High exercise requirements
Strong hunting instincts
Can be vocal
Needs secure fencing
Not apartment suitable
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Harrier Fun Fact
Harriers were specifically bred to hunt hares at a pace that allowed hunters to follow on foot rather than horseback.
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.
Harrier
Origin:
Developed in medieval England during the 13th century, these skilled pack hunters excelled at tracking hares. Their size made them ideal for hunters following on foot rather than horseback.
Special Considerations
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Harrier
Requires secure fencing due to strong hunting instincts. Weekly grooming maintains coat health. Daily exercise essential for physical and mental well-being.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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