Australian Shepherd vs Irish Wolfhound
Breed Compatibility
79% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Irish Wolfhound: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Irish Wolfhound: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Irish Wolfhound: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Shepherd5/5
Irish Wolfhound3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Shepherd3/5
Irish Wolfhound4/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Shepherd3/5
Irish Wolfhound3/5
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
Irish Wolfhound
Dilated Cardiomyopathy: Heart condition
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Osteosarcoma: Bone cancer risk
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clot
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Eye Problems: Progressive issues
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 Wolfhound
Pros
Gentle and patient temperament
Good with children
Minimal barking
Noble and dignified presence
Cons
Very short lifespan
Requires large living space
High food costs
Health issues common
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Irish Wolfhound Fun Fact
Irish law once restricted ownership of Irish Wolfhounds to nobility and royal families only!
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 Wolfhound
Origin:
Medieval Ireland saw these noble hounds hunting wolves and large game, while also serving as war dogs and guardians of castles. Their presence was a symbol of nobility and power.
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 Wolfhound
Regular heart monitoring is crucial. Exercise must be moderate during growth phases. Large living space and significant food costs should be considered before adoption.
Related Comparisons
Similar Size
Australian Shepherd vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Australian Shepherd vs Afghan Hound →