Australian Shepherd vs Bullmastiff

Herding · Medium vs Working · Large

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

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian ShepherdBullmastiff
Group
HerdingWorking
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
USAEngland
Height (male)
20–23"25–27"
Height (female)
18–21"24–26"
Weight (male)
50–65 lbs110–130 lbs
Weight (female)
40–55 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.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very High (5/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
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 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 Shepherd health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Bullmastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Cancer
  • Heart problems