Australian Kelpie vs Boxer

Herding · Medium vs Working · Large

Quick take
  • Boxer is the larger breed at 65–80 lbs (males) vs 35–50 lbs for the Australian Kelpie.
  • The Australian Kelpie typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Australian Kelpie is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian KelpieBoxer
Group
HerdingWorking
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
AustraliaGermany
Height (male)
17–20"23–25"
Height (female)
15–18"21.5–23.5"
Weight (male)
35–50 lbs65–80 lbs
Weight (female)
30–45 lbs50–65 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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.

About the Boxer

The Boxer is a bright, fun-loving, active working dog — eternally puppyish, devoted to family, wary of strangers. Originally from Germany, this large working breed typically weighs 65–80 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as bright, fun-loving, active.

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Australian Kelpie health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cerebellar abiotrophy
  • Cryptorchidism

Boxer health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Heart conditions
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat