Australian Shepherd vs German Shepherd
Both were bred for herding sheep. Both are medium to large dogs by weight. The Australian Shepherd has a long double coat, needing regular grooming; the German Shepherd, a short to medium double coat, needing weekly brushing. Both shed a lot. The Australian Shepherd needs lots of exercise; the German Shepherd, a good daily walk.
Side by side
| Australian Shepherd | German Shepherd | |
|---|---|---|
| Bred for | Herding sheep | Herding sheep |
| Size | Medium to large | Medium to large |
| Weight | 35 to 70 lb | 49 to 88 lb |
| Coat | A long double coat | A double coat, short to medium |
| Grooming | Regular brushing, and trims for some coats | Brushing every week |
| Shedding | A lot | A lot |
| Exercise | Lots of exercise | A good daily walk |
| Voice | Not in its sources | Its descriptions mention barking |
| In license records | 3,185 | 6,477 |
What people name them
The most common names in the pet license records we use.
From pet license records published by New York City, Seattle, Cambridge in Massachusetts, and Allegheny County in Pennsylvania.
General information to help you narrow your choices. Every animal is an individual; meet them first. Check your lease and local rules.
Breed facts: Wikidata and each breed's Wikipedia article, read 2026-10-04. The ratings are ours, from those facts; how we match is on the breed fit quiz.
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