Finnish Spitz vs Australian Shepherd
Breed Compatibility
92% Compatible
Energy Level
Finnish Spitz: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Finnish Spitz: Agreeable0.6
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Finnish Spitz: Weekly Brushing0.4
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Finnish Spitz5/5
Australian Shepherd5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Finnish Spitz4/5
Australian Shepherd3/5
Good with Strangers
Finnish Spitz3/5
Australian Shepherd3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Finnish Spitz
Hip dysplasia: joint malformation
Patellar luxation: kneecap issues
Eye problems: progressive conditions
Epilepsy: neurological disorder
Dental issues: periodontal disease
Heart defects: cardiac concerns
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
Finnish Spitz
Pros
Loyal family companion
Excellent watchdog
Good with children
Low grooming needs
Cons
Frequent barker
High exercise needs
Strong prey drive
Independent nature
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
Finnish Spitz Fun Fact
Finnish Spitz are known as 'Barking Bird Dogs' due to their unique hunting style of alerting hunters with their voice.
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Heritage & Purpose
Finnish Spitz
Origin:
Developed in Finland during the 1800s, these dogs served as specialized hunting companions, using their distinctive barking technique to track and tree game birds.
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
Finnish Spitz
Regular brushing during shedding seasons, consistent exercise to manage energy levels, and early socialization to control barking tendencies are essential.
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
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