Australian Shepherd vs Norwegian Buhund
Breed Compatibility
86% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Norwegian Buhund: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Norwegian Buhund: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Norwegian Buhund: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Shepherd5/5
Norwegian Buhund3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Shepherd3/5
Norwegian Buhund3/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Shepherd3/5
Norwegian Buhund3/5
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
Norwegian Buhund
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Cataracts common
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap issues
Von Willebrand's: Blood disorder
Skin Allergies: Various triggers
Dental Issues: Regular care needed
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
Norwegian Buhund
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Good with families
Excellent watchdog
Adaptable to different environments
Cons
High exercise needs
Can be vocal
Requires regular grooming
Strong herding instincts
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Norwegian Buhund Fun Fact
Viking age artifacts show these dogs were so valued they were often buried alongside their owners!
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.
Norwegian Buhund
Origin:
Developed in Norway during the Viking age as versatile farm dogs, these skilled herders managed livestock and served as watchdogs across the Norwegian mountains.
Special Considerations
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Norwegian Buhund
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
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