Australian Cattle Dog vs Bull Terrier

Herding · Medium vs Terrier · Medium

Quick take
  • Bull Terrier is the larger breed at 50–70 lbs (males) vs 35–50 lbs for the Australian Cattle Dog.
  • The Australian Cattle Dog typically lives longer (12–16 years).
  • The Australian Cattle Dog has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Australian Cattle Dog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian Cattle DogBull Terrier
Group
HerdingTerrier
Size
MediumMedium
Origin
AustraliaEngland
Height (male)
18–20"21–22"
Height (female)
17–19"21–22"
Weight (male)
35–50 lbs50–70 lbs
Weight (female)
35–50 lbs50–70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–16 years12–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

About the Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog is an alert, curious, pleasant herding dog with a blue or red speckled coat — needs intense daily exercise. Originally from Australia, this medium herding breed typically weighs 35–50 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as alert, curious, pleasant.

About the Bull Terrier

The Bull Terrier is a playful, charming, mischievous egg-headed gladiator — Spuds MacKenzie, the original Target dog. Originally from England, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 50–70 lbs and lives 12–13 years. Breeders describe them as playful, charming, mischievous.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Australian Cattle Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Deafness
  • Progressive retinal atrophy

Bull Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Deafness
  • Heart disease
  • Skin issues
  • Kidney problems