Australian Kelpie vs Rottweiler

Herding · Medium vs Working · Large

Quick take
  • Rottweiler is the larger breed at 95–135 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.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian KelpieRottweiler
Group
HerdingWorking
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
AustraliaGermany
Height (male)
17–20"24–27"
Height (female)
15–18"22–25"
Weight (male)
35–50 lbs95–135 lbs
Weight (female)
30–45 lbs80–100 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years9–10 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
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.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
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)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
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 Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is a loyal, loving, confident guardian — descendant of Roman drover dogs, requires firm training. Originally from Germany, this large working breed typically weighs 95–135 lbs and lives 9–10 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, loving, confident guardian.

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Australian Kelpie health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cerebellar abiotrophy
  • Cryptorchidism

Rottweiler health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Cancer
  • Bloat