Anatolian Shepherd vs Australian Kelpie

Working · Giant vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Anatolian Shepherd is the larger breed at 110–150 lbs (males) vs 35–50 lbs for the Australian Kelpie.
  • The Australian Kelpie typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Australian Kelpie has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Australian Kelpie sheds less.
  • The Australian Kelpie is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAnatolian ShepherdAustralian Kelpie
Group
WorkingHerding
Size
GiantMedium
Origin
TurkeyAustralia
Height (male)
29"17–20"
Height (female)
27"15–18"
Weight (male)
110–150 lbs35–50 lbs
Weight (female)
80–120 lbs30–45 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–13 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Coat length
mediumshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Anatolian Shepherd

The Anatolian Shepherd is a loyal, independent, reserved livestock guardian from Turkey — works alone protecting flocks from wolves. Originally from Turkey, this giant working breed typically weighs 110–150 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, independent, reserved.

About the Australian Kelpie

The Australian Kelpie is a clever, devoted, energetic Australian sheep musterer — outback workaholic with an off-switch problem. Originally from Australia, this medium herding breed typically weighs 35–50 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as clever, devoted, energetic.

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Anatolian Shepherd health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

Australian Kelpie health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cerebellar abiotrophy
  • Cryptorchidism