Comparator
Australian Shepherd or German Shepherd Dog: which breed to choose?
Australian Shepherd and German Shepherd Dog are two dog breeds often compared by future adopters. Here is a point-by-point comparison to help you decide: size, temperament, purchase price, monthly budget, and compatibility with your lifestyle.
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Key takeaways
- Australian Shepherd and German Shepherd Dog are similar in size (19–34 kg).
- German Shepherd Dog is cheaper to buy: 600–1,500 € vs 700–1,800 € for Australian Shepherd.
- Day to day, Australian Shepherd costs less: about 119 € per month vs 170 € for German Shepherd Dog.
- Both breeds need a similar level of daily activity (5/5).
- Australian Shepherd is rated higher for “Family & children”: 5/5 vs 4/5 for German Shepherd Dog.
- German Shepherd Dog is rated higher for “Apartment living”: 2/5 vs 1/5 for Australian Shepherd.
- For “First-time owner”, both breeds are tied (2/5).
- Australian Shepherd lives longer on average: 12–15 years vs 10–13 years for German Shepherd Dog.
Our verdict
Choose Australian Shepherd if you’re looking for…
- Active households : it is well suited to people who are available to walk, play and work with him every day.
- Dog sports enthusiasts : his speed, his focus and his desire to cooperate make him an excellent partner.
- Present families : he thrives best when he truly shares the daily life of those close to him.
Choose German Shepherd Dog if you’re looking for…
- Active families : It is suitable for present, dynamic households ready to devote time to it every day.
- Committed owners : It thrives best with consistent, ongoing training that channels its sensitivity and abilities.
- Dog activity enthusiasts : It enjoys obedience, tracking, scent work and many dog sports.
- Utility or service projects : The breed is well suited to people looking for a versatile dog capable of working seriously.
Detailed comparison
| General information | ||
|---|---|---|
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| FCI group | 1 | 1 |
| Size | Medium | Large |
| Height at withers | 46–58 cm | 55–65 cm |
| Weight | 19–34 kg | 22–40 kg |
| Coat | Medium-long, straight to wavy | Short or long, double with dense undercoat |
| Life expectancy | 12–15 ans | 10–13 ans |
| Average price | 700–1,800 € | 600–1,500 € |
| Monthly budget | ≈ 119 € | ≈ 170 € |
| Compatibility | ||
| Family & children | Excellent | Very good |
| Daily activity required | Very high | Very high |
| Apartment living | Limited | Fairly good |
| First-time owner | Fairly good | Fairly good |
| Other pets | Very good | Good |
| Tolerance for being alone | Fairly good | Fairly good |
| Guarding instinct | Good | Excellent |
| Pros & Cons | ||
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