Australian Shepherd vs Labrador Retriever
Breed Compatibility
89% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Labrador Retriever: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Labrador Retriever: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Labrador Retriever: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Shepherd5/5
Labrador Retriever5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Shepherd3/5
Labrador Retriever5/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Shepherd3/5
Labrador Retriever5/5
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
Labrador Retriever
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
PRA: Progressive eye deterioration
Exercise-Induced Collapse: Activity limit
Bloat: Digestive emergency risk
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
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
Labrador Retriever
Pros
Excellent family dog
Highly trainable
Great with children
Versatile working ability
Cons
Heavy shedding
High exercise needs
Prone to weight gain
Chewing tendency in puppyhood
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Labrador Retriever Fun Fact
Labrador Retrievers have a special gene that makes them obsessed with food, contributing to their trainability!
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.
Labrador Retriever
Origin:
Developed in Newfoundland during the 1800s, these dogs worked alongside fishermen retrieving nets and fish, later refined in England as sporting and hunting 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.
Labrador Retriever
Regular grooming needed during heavy shedding seasons. Exercise requirements must be met daily. Weight management crucial to prevent obesity-related health issues.
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