Australian Cattle Dog vs Scottish Terrier

Herding · Medium vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Australian Cattle Dog is the larger breed at 35–50 lbs (males) vs 19–22 lbs for the Scottish Terrier.
  • The Australian Cattle Dog typically lives longer (12–16 years).
  • The Australian Cattle Dog has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Scottish Terrier sheds less.
  • The Australian Cattle Dog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian Cattle DogScottish Terrier
Group
HerdingTerrier
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
AustraliaScotland
Height (male)
18–20"10"
Height (female)
17–19"10"
Weight (male)
35–50 lbs19–22 lbs
Weight (female)
35–50 lbs18–21 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–16 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
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
shortwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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 Scottish Terrier

The Scottish Terrier is an independent, confident, spirited terrier from the Scottish Highlands — the original 'Scottie'. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 19–22 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as confident, independent, spirited.

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Australian Cattle Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Deafness
  • Progressive retinal atrophy

Scottish Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Scotty cramp
  • Von Willebrand's disease
  • Bladder cancer