Australian Shepherd vs Chiweenie

Herding · Medium vs Miscellaneous · Toy

Quick take
  • Australian Shepherd is the larger breed at 50–65 lbs (males) vs 5–12 lbs for the Chiweenie.
  • The Chiweenie typically lives longer (13–16 years).
  • The Australian Shepherd has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Chiweenie sheds less.
  • The Australian Shepherd is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian ShepherdChiweenie
Group
HerdingMiscellaneous
Size
MediumToy
Origin
USAUSA
Height (male)
20–23"6–10"
Height (female)
18–21"6–10"
Weight (male)
50–65 lbs5–12 lbs
Weight (female)
40–55 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.
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 Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
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 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 Shepherd health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Chiweenie health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • IVDD
  • Patellar luxation
  • Hypoglycemia
  • Dental issues