Australian Shepherd vs Yakutian Laika: full comparison
| Trait | Australian Shepherd | Yakutian Laika |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Energy level | Very High | Very High |
| Trainability | Very High | Medium |
| Friendliness | High | High |
| Good with children | High | High |
| Grooming needs | High | High |
| Shedding | High | Very High |
| Barking | Medium | Medium |
| Protectiveness | Medium | Medium |
| Adaptability | High | Low |
| Typical lifespan | 13 years | 13 years |
| Hypoallergenic | No | No |
Key differences at a glance
- The Australian Shepherd has noticeably higher trainability than the Yakutian Laika.
- The Australian Shepherd has noticeably higher adaptability than the Yakutian Laika.
Which should you choose?
Choose the Australian Shepherd if you want an easier dog to train, you want a more adaptable dog, or you want less shedding around the home.
Choose the Yakutian Laika if you simply prefer the breed — it's very closely matched with the Australian Shepherd on temperament, size and care.
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Find your perfect match Try the free quizFrequently asked questions
- Is the Australian Shepherd or the Yakutian Laika better for families with children?
- Both the Australian Shepherd and the Yakutian Laika are considered good with children when properly socialised and supervised.
- Which sheds more, the Australian Shepherd or the Yakutian Laika?
- The Yakutian Laika 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 Yakutian Laika?
- The Australian Shepherd is generally the easier of the two to train, making it a better pick for less experienced owners.