Australian Shepherd vs Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog

Herding · Medium vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Australian Shepherd is the larger breed at 50–65 lbs (males) vs 35–50 lbs for the Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog.
  • The Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog sheds less.
  • The Australian Shepherd is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian ShepherdAustralian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog
Group
HerdingHerding
Size
MediumMedium
Origin
USAAustralia
Height (male)
20–23"18–20"
Height (female)
18–21"17–19"
Weight (male)
50–65 lbs35–50 lbs
Weight (female)
40–55 lbs35–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–15 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)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Coat length
mediumshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd is a smart, work-oriented, exuberant herding dog — actually American despite the name; needs a job. Originally from USA, this medium herding breed typically weighs 50–65 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as smart, work-oriented, exuberant.

About the Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog

The Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog is an alert, hardy, watchful Australian drover — cousin to the Cattle Dog with a naturally bobbed tail. Originally from Australia, this medium herding breed typically weighs 35–50 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as alert, hardy, watchful.

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Australian Shepherd health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Epilepsy
  • Eye problems
  • MDR1 gene mutation

Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Deafness
  • Eye disorders