Estrela Mountain Dog vs Australian Kelpie
Breed Compatibility
81% Compatible
Energy Level
Estrela Mountain Dog: Calm0.4
Australian Kelpie: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Estrela Mountain Dog: N/A
Australian Kelpie: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Estrela Mountain Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Australian Kelpie: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Estrela Mountain Dog5/5
Australian Kelpie3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Estrela Mountain Dog3/5
Australian Kelpie3/5
Good with Strangers
Estrela Mountain Dog2/5
Australian Kelpie3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Estrela Mountain Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint inflammation
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Joint Problems: Mobility issues
Australian Kelpie
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
PRA: Progressive eye condition
CEA: Collie eye anomaly concerns
Cryptorchidism: Testicle retention
Cerebellar Abiotrophy: Brain disorder
Luxating Patella: Kneecap issues
Pros & Cons Comparison
Estrela Mountain Dog
Pros
Excellent guardian instincts
Loyal to family
Weather-resistant coat
Independent nature
Good with livestock
Cons
Requires extensive space
Strong-willed personality
Heavy shedding
Not suitable for apartments
Needs experienced owner
Australian Kelpie
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent work ethic
Low maintenance coat
Exceptional agility
Strong herding instincts
Cons
Requires extensive exercise
Can be too intense for novice owners
May herd children and pets
Needs constant mental stimulation
Can be stubborn if not properly trained
Estrela Mountain Dog Fun Fact
These dogs traditionally wore spiked iron collars called 'carlancas' to protect their necks from wolf attacks.
Australian Kelpie Fun Fact
Kelpies can cover up to 50 kilometers in a day while working, demonstrating their legendary endurance.
Heritage & Purpose
Estrela Mountain Dog
Origin:
Dating back to the Serra da Estrela mountains of Portugal, these dogs served as guardians of sheep flocks against wolves and other predators since the Middle Ages.
Australian Kelpie
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1800s for sheep herding in harsh outback conditions. Renowned for their exceptional stamina and working abilities in challenging terrain.
Special Considerations
Estrela Mountain Dog
Needs regular brushing during shedding seasons, extensive early socialization, and secure fencing. Guardian instincts require proper management and training.
Australian Kelpie
Needs extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Regular grooming during shedding seasons. Early training and socialization essential for managing herding instincts.