Australian Shepherd vs Russell Terrier
Breed Compatibility
50% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Russell Terrier: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Russell Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Russell Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Shepherd5/5
Russell Terrier/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Shepherd3/5
Russell Terrier/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Shepherd3/5
Russell Terrier/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
Russell Terrier
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Lens Luxation: Eye lens dislocation
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Glaucoma: Eye pressure condition
Dental Issues: Tooth/gum 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
Russell Terrier
Pros
Highly energetic and playful
Compact size suits various homes
Intelligent and trainable
Low grooming requirements
Cons
High exercise needs
Strong prey drive
Can be stubborn
May be vocal
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Russell Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Russell Terriers can jump up to five times their own height!
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.
Russell Terrier
Origin:
Developed in England during the 1800s for fox hunting and vermin control. These small terriers excelled at pursuing quarry underground, demonstrating remarkable courage and tenacity.
Special Considerations
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Russell Terrier
Regular exercise crucial to prevent boredom. Weekly brushing maintains coat condition. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
OccasionalRelated Comparisons
Similar Size
Australian Shepherd vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Australian Shepherd vs Afghan Hound →