Australian Kelpie vs Bullmastiff

Herding · Medium vs Working · Large

Quick take
  • Bullmastiff is the larger breed at 110–130 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 Bullmastiff sheds less.
  • The Australian Kelpie is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian KelpieBullmastiff
Group
HerdingWorking
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
AustraliaEngland
Height (male)
17–20"25–27"
Height (female)
15–18"24–26"
Weight (male)
35–50 lbs110–130 lbs
Weight (female)
30–45 lbs100–120 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years7–9 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very High (5/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
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 Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff is an affectionate, loyal, brave gamekeeper's night dog — Mastiff-Bulldog cross bred to subdue poachers. Originally from England, this large working breed typically weighs 110–130 lbs and lives 7–9 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, loyal, brave.

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Australian Kelpie health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cerebellar abiotrophy
  • Cryptorchidism

Bullmastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Cancer
  • Heart problems