Australian Shepherd vs Norwich Terrier
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Norwich Terrier: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Norwich Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Norwich Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Shepherd5/5
Norwich Terrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Shepherd3/5
Norwich Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Shepherd3/5
Norwich Terrier5/5
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
Norwich Terrier
Tracheal collapse: Airway weakness
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye problems: Progressive issues
Dental disease: Tooth decay risk
Epilepsy: Seizure disorder risk
Heart issues: Valve problems
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
Norwich Terrier
Pros
Affectionate with family
Good with children
Adaptable
Low maintenance grooming
Cons
Can be stubborn
Prone to barking
Strong prey drive
May be territorial
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Norwich Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Norwich Terriers were historically used to flush out foxes during hunts!
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.
Norwich Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Eastern England during the 1800s, these tenacious terriers served as ratters in stables and farmyards, proving especially valuable in Norfolk county.
Special Considerations
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Norwich Terrier
Regular dental care essential. Needs consistent exercise despite small size. Watch for signs of respiratory issues common in small terriers.
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