Australian Shepherd vs Weimaraner

Herding · Medium vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Weimaraner is the larger breed at 70–90 lbs (males) vs 50–65 lbs for the Australian Shepherd.
  • The Australian Shepherd typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Weimaraner sheds less.
  • The Australian Shepherd is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian ShepherdWeimaraner
Group
HerdingSporting
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
USAGermany
Height (male)
20–23"25–27"
Height (female)
18–21"23–25"
Weight (male)
50–65 lbs70–90 lbs
Weight (female)
40–55 lbs55–75 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years11–14 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)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)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)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 Weimaraner

The Weimaraner is a friendly, fearless, obedient gundog with a striking silver-grey coat — the 'grey ghost' from Germany. Originally from Germany, this large sporting breed typically weighs 70–90 lbs and lives 11–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, fearless, obedient.

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Australian Shepherd health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Weimaraner health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Von Willebrand's disease