Wire Fox Terrier vs Australian Shepherd
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Wire Fox Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Wire Fox Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Wire Fox Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Wire Fox Terrier5/5
Australian Shepherd5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Wire Fox Terrier3/5
Australian Shepherd3/5
Good with Strangers
Wire Fox Terrier5/5
Australian Shepherd3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Wire Fox Terrier
Cataracts: Progressive eye cloudiness
Legg-Perthes: Hip joint deformity
Patellar luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Lens luxation: Eye lens displacement
Allergies: Skin sensitivities common
Heart murmurs: Cardiac irregularities
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
Wire Fox Terrier
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent watchdogs
Low shedding coat
Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
High grooming needs
Can be stubborn
Strong prey drive
May be vocal
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
Wire Fox Terrier Fun Fact
These terriers were among the first breeds registered with the AKC and have won more Westminster Best in Shows than most breeds!
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Heritage & Purpose
Wire Fox Terrier
Origin: England
Developed in England during the 1800s, these skilled hunters excelled at flushing foxes from their dens, working alongside mounted hunting parties in pursuit of game.
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
Wire Fox Terrier
Regular professional grooming needed for coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Early socialization crucial for managing terrier temperament.
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Shedding
InfrequentShedding
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