Australian Shepherd vs Newfoundland
Breed Compatibility
88% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Newfoundland: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Newfoundland: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Newfoundland: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Shepherd5/5
Newfoundland5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Shepherd3/5
Newfoundland5/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Shepherd3/5
Newfoundland5/5
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
Newfoundland
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint problems
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Bloat: Gastric complications
SAS: Heart valve condition
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
Newfoundland
Pros
Excellent with children
Gentle and patient
Strong swimming abilities
Loyal and protective
Good therapy dogs
Cons
Heavy shedding
Excessive drooling
Expensive to maintain
Need lots of space
Short lifespan
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Newfoundland Fun Fact
Newfoundlands have a special swimming stroke named after them - the 'Newfie paddle'!
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.
Newfoundland
Origin:
Developed in Newfoundland during the 1700s, these powerful dogs served as water rescue dogs and fishing assistants, helping fishermen haul nets and pull carts of fish to market.
Special Considerations
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Newfoundland
Regular grooming essential for coat maintenance. Need controlled exercise to protect developing joints. Must monitor for signs of heat sensitivity and heart issues.
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