Australian Shepherd vs Bloodhound

Herding · Medium vs Hound · Large

Quick take
  • Bloodhound is the larger breed at 90–110 lbs (males) vs 50–65 lbs for the Australian Shepherd.
  • The Australian Shepherd typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Australian Shepherd has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Bloodhound sheds less.
  • The Australian Shepherd is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian ShepherdBloodhound
Group
HerdingHound
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
USABelgium
Height (male)
20–23"25–27"
Height (female)
18–21"23–25"
Weight (male)
50–65 lbs90–110 lbs
Weight (female)
40–55 lbs80–100 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years10–12 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)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very High (5/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
mediumshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

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 Bloodhound

The Bloodhound is a friendly, independent, inquisitive scenthound — the world's premier nose, used in police tracking. Originally from Belgium, this large hound breed typically weighs 90–110 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, independent, inquisitive.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Australian Shepherd health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Bloodhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye conditions
  • Ear infections