Australian Shepherd vs Otterhound
Breed Compatibility
83% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Otterhound: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Otterhound: May be Stubborn0.2
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Otterhound: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Shepherd5/5
Otterhound3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Shepherd3/5
Otterhound3/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Shepherd3/5
Otterhound4/5
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
Otterhound
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint condition
Glaucoma: Eye pressure issue
CTP: Blood clotting disorder
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
Otterhound
Pros
Excellent swimming ability
Friendly temperament
Good with families
Strong tracking abilities
Cons
High grooming needs
Requires lots of exercise
Can be stubborn
Rare and expensive
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Otterhound Fun Fact
Otterhounds have one of the strongest noses in the dog world, able to track scents underwater and up to 72 hours old.
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.
Otterhound
Origin:
Developed in medieval England during the 12th century, these robust hounds were bred specifically for hunting otters in rivers and streams, using their powerful swimming abilities and keen sense of smell.
Special Considerations
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Otterhound
Regular coat maintenance needed to prevent matting. Requires secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Health screening for genetic conditions essential before breeding.
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