Australian Shepherd vs Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Shepherd5/5
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Shepherd3/5
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Shepherd3/5
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier3/5
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
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
PLN: Protein-losing nephropathy
PLE: Protein-losing enteropathy
RD: Renal dysplasia concerns
Addison's: Adrenal insufficiency
IBD: Inflammatory bowel disease
Hip Dysplasia: Joint 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
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Pros
Minimal shedding coat
Good with families
Adaptable to different homes
Friendly personality
Cons
High grooming needs
Can be stubborn
Requires regular exercise
Health issues common
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Fun Fact
Their soft, silky coat is unique among terriers, who typically have wiry fur.
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.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Ireland during the 1800s as a versatile farm dog, skilled at hunting vermin, herding livestock, and serving as a loyal family companion.
Special Considerations
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Regular professional grooming needed. Daily exercise requirements must be met. Watch for signs of protein-losing conditions and maintain regular vet check-ups.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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