Australian Shepherd vs Irish Terrier
Breed Compatibility
87% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Irish Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Irish Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Irish Terrier: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Shepherd5/5
Irish Terrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Shepherd3/5
Irish Terrier1/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Shepherd3/5
Irish Terrier3/5
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
Irish Terrier
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Cataract: Vision impairment
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting
Hyperkeratosis: Paw pad issues
PRA: Progressive eye disease
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
Irish Terrier
Pros
Loyal and affectionate
Good watchdog
Low grooming needs
Adaptable to different environments
Cons
Strong prey drive
Can be stubborn
May be aggressive with other dogs
Requires firm training
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Irish Terrier Fun Fact
Known as 'Daredevil' of dogdom, Irish Terriers were among the first breeds used as messenger dogs in WWI.
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.
Irish Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Ireland during the 1800s for hunting vermin, guarding farms, and serving as versatile working dogs. Valued for their courage and adaptability in rural settings.
Special Considerations
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Irish Terrier
Requires regular brushing and stripping of coat. Strong prey drive necessitates secure fencing. Early socialization crucial for managing terrier temperament.
Shedding
SeasonalRelated Comparisons
Similar Size
Australian Shepherd vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Australian Shepherd vs Afghan Hound →