Old English Sheepdog vs Australian Shepherd
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Old English Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Old English Sheepdog: Independent0.4
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Old English Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Old English Sheepdog5/5
Australian Shepherd5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Old English Sheepdog3/5
Australian Shepherd3/5
Good with Strangers
Old English Sheepdog3/5
Australian Shepherd3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Old English Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: PRA and cataracts
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalance
Joint Problems: Elbow dysplasia
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
Old English Sheepdog
Pros
Excellent family companion
Good with children
Intelligent and trainable
Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
Heavy shedding
High grooming requirements
Can be stubborn
Requires significant exercise
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
Old English Sheepdog Fun Fact
Their shaggy coat earned them the nickname 'Bobtail,' despite actually having a naturally long tail!
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Heritage & Purpose
Old English Sheepdog
Origin:
Developed in western England during the 1800s, these dogs expertly drove cattle and sheep to market across the countryside, earning their reputation as skilled herding companions.
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
Old English Sheepdog
Regular grooming sessions essential to prevent matting. Needs consistent exercise routine and early socialization. Monitor for signs of overheating in warm weather.
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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