Australian Kelpie vs Chiweenie

Herding · Medium vs Miscellaneous · Toy

Quick take
  • Australian Kelpie is the larger breed at 35–50 lbs (males) vs 5–12 lbs for the Chiweenie.
  • The Chiweenie typically lives longer (13–16 years).
  • The Australian Kelpie has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Australian Kelpie is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian KelpieChiweenie
Group
HerdingMiscellaneous
Size
MediumToy
Origin
AustraliaUSA
Height (male)
17–20"6–10"
Height (female)
15–18"6–10"
Weight (male)
35–50 lbs5–12 lbs
Weight (female)
30–45 lbs5–12 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years13–16 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)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
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
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

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 Chiweenie

The Chiweenie is a spirited, devoted, big-personality Chihuahua × Dachshund hybrid — toy-sized 'mexican hot dog'. Originally from USA, this toy miscellaneous breed typically weighs 5–12 lbs and lives 13–16 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, devoted, lively.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Australian Kelpie health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cerebellar abiotrophy
  • Cryptorchidism

Chiweenie health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • IVDD
  • Patellar luxation
  • Hypoglycemia
  • Dental issues