Australian Shepherd vs German Shepherd Dog: full comparison
| Trait | Australian Shepherd | German Shepherd Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Large |
| Energy level | Very High | Very High |
| Trainability | Very High | Very High |
| Friendliness | High | Medium |
| Good with children | High | High |
| Grooming needs | High | High |
| Shedding | High | Very High |
| Barking | Medium | Medium |
| Protectiveness | Medium | Very High |
| Adaptability | High | High |
| Typical lifespan | 13 years | 11 years |
| Hypoallergenic | No | No |
Key differences at a glance
- The German Shepherd Dog is a larger dog than the Australian Shepherd, which affects space, food and exercise needs.
- The German Shepherd Dog has noticeably higher protectiveness than the Australian Shepherd.
Which should you choose?
Choose the Australian Shepherd if you want a longer-lived breed, you want a more outgoing, sociable dog, or you want less shedding around the home.
Choose the German Shepherd Dog if you want a more protective, watchful guardian or you want a bigger, more substantial dog.
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Find your perfect match Try the free quizFrequently asked questions
- Is the Australian Shepherd or the German Shepherd Dog better for families with children?
- Both the Australian Shepherd and the German Shepherd Dog are considered good with children when properly socialised and supervised.
- Which sheds more, the Australian Shepherd or the German Shepherd Dog?
- The German Shepherd Dog sheds more than the Australian Shepherd. If shedding is a concern, the Australian Shepherd is the lower-maintenance choice.
- Which is easier to train, the Australian Shepherd or the German Shepherd Dog?
- Both breeds have comparable trainability. Consistency and positive reinforcement work well for each.