Australian Terrier vs Portuguese Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
85% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Terrier: Energetic0.8
Portuguese Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Australian Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Portuguese Sheepdog: N/A
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Portuguese Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Terrier5/5
Portuguese Sheepdog3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Terrier3/5
Portuguese Sheepdog3/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Terrier3/5
Portuguese Sheepdog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Australian Terrier
Diabetes: Blood sugar regulation issues
Luxating Patella: Kneecap dislocation
Legg-Perthes: Hip joint degeneration
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Cruciate Ligament: Knee joint problems
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
Portuguese Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
Cataracts: Clouding of eye lens
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Pros & Cons Comparison
Australian Terrier
Pros
Compact size
Low grooming needs
Loyal companion
Good watchdog
Adaptable
Intelligent
Cons
Can be stubborn
May bark frequently
Strong prey drive
Can be territorial
Portuguese Sheepdog
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent herding abilities
Good with families
Adaptable to different environments
Cons
Requires extensive exercise
Regular grooming needed
Can be strong-willed
May show herding behaviors
Australian Terrier Fun Fact
Australian Terriers were the first native Australian breed to be recognized and shown in their homeland!
Portuguese Sheepdog Fun Fact
Their distinctive wavy coat naturally developed to protect them from harsh mountain weather conditions.
Heritage & Purpose
Australian Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1800s, these terriers excelled at controlling rats and snakes in gold mines and sheep stations, proving invaluable to colonial settlers.
Portuguese Sheepdog
Origin:
Developed in Portugal during the Middle Ages, these dogs served as skilled herders in mountainous regions, managing sheep and cattle while protecting them from predators.
Special Considerations
Australian Terrier
Regular brushing needed to maintain coat. Requires secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Portuguese Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed for coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Shedding
InfrequentShedding
OccasionalRelated Comparisons
Same Group
Australian Terrier vs Wire Fox Terrier →Same Group
Australian Terrier vs Welsh Terrier →Similar Size
Australian Terrier vs Wire Fox Terrier →Similar Size
Australian Terrier vs Japanese Chin →