Dutch Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd
Breed Compatibility
85% Compatible
Energy Level
Dutch Shepherd: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Dutch Shepherd: Agreeable0.6
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Dutch Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Dutch Shepherd3/5
Australian Shepherd5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Dutch Shepherd3/5
Australian Shepherd3/5
Good with Strangers
Dutch Shepherd3/5
Australian Shepherd3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Dutch Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive vision issues
Goniodysplasia: Eye drainage condition
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Heart Disease: Cardiac health concerns
Joint Problems: Elbow dysplasia risk
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
Pros & Cons Comparison
Dutch Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent
Versatile working ability
Athletic and agile
Strong protective instincts
Cons
High exercise requirements
Strong herding drive
Needs constant mental stimulation
Can be territorial
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
Dutch Shepherd Fun Fact
Dutch Shepherds were once so common in the Netherlands that they were known simply as 'farm dogs'.
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Heritage & Purpose
Dutch Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in the Netherlands during the 1800s, these versatile farm dogs excelled at herding sheep and cattle while serving as loyal guardians of rural properties.
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.
Special Considerations
Dutch Shepherd
Requires extensive daily exercise, regular mental stimulation, and consistent training. Grooming needs vary by coat type. Health screening essential for breeding.
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Related Comparisons
Similar Size
Dutch Shepherd vs Labrador Retriever →Similar Size
Dutch Shepherd vs Belgian Tervuren →