Australian Shepherd vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Herding · Medium vs Herding · Small

Quick take
  • Australian Shepherd is the larger breed at 50–65 lbs (males) vs 24–30 lbs for the Pembroke Welsh Corgi.
  • The Australian Shepherd typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Australian Shepherd has higher daily energy needs.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian ShepherdPembroke Welsh Corgi
Group
HerdingHerding
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
USAWales
Height (male)
20–23"10–12"
Height (female)
18–21"10–12"
Weight (male)
50–65 lbs24–30 lbs
Weight (female)
40–55 lbs24–28 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–13 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)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
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)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediummedium
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 Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a smart, alert, affectionate herder on stumpy legs — the favorite breed of Queen Elizabeth II. Originally from Wales, this small herding breed typically weighs 24–30 lbs and lives 12–13 years. Breeders describe them as smart, alert, affectionate.

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Australian Shepherd health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Pembroke Welsh Corgi health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • IVDD
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Degenerative myelopathy
  • Obesity