Labrador Retriever vs. Australian Shepherd: Breed Differences and Similarities

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever

Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherd

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Labrador Retriever or Australian Shepherd?

5 / 5

Labrador Retriever tends to gain weight easily, needs increased exercise and playtime along with controlled food intake.

4 / 5

Australian Shepherd has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are Labrador Retrievers or Australian Shepherds hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Labrador Retriever nor Australian Shepherd are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd dogs?

Affectionate
Cheerful
Friendly
Intelligent
Loyal
Playful
Social
Alert
Energetic
Gentle
Loving
Going
Responsive

Active
Friendly
Intelligent
Loving
Affectionate
Good-natured
Protective

Shedding Level

Do Labrador Retrievers shed more than Australian Shepherds, or which breed sheds more, Labrador Retrievers or Australian Shepherds?

3 / 5

Labrador Retriever or Australian Shepherd dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Labrador Retriever or Australian Shepherd. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Labrador Retriever or Australian Shepherd?

3 / 5

Labrador Retrievers are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

5 / 5

Choose an Australian Shepherd if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.

Origin

What is the origin of Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd dog breeds?

Canada

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd breeds?

St. John's Water Dog

Basque Shepherd

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Canadian Canine Registry

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Dog Registry of America Inc.
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Australian Shepherd Club Of America

Date of Birth

When were Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd breeds first developed?

1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd?

Sporting (AKC:1917)
Gun Dog (UKC)

Herding (AKC:1991 & UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd dogs?

Hazel
Brown
Amber

Blue
Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd?

Black
Brown

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd breeds?

Black
Brown
Cream

Black
Red
Blue

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd breeds?

2 / 5

Labrador Retrievers have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

4 / 5

Australian Shepherds have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd?

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd?

A Labrador Retriever can have a litter of 10-12 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

An Australian Shepherd can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

5 / 5

Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherds are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd breeds are generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd breeds?

Gastric Torsion
Elbow Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia
Epilepsy
Osteochondritis Dissecans

Cataract
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hip Dysplasia
CEA
Von Willebrand's Disease

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd?

Otitis Externa
Cataract
Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Distichiasis
Deafness
OCD
Nasal Solar Dermatitis
Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd breeds?

Eye
Hip
Elbow
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination
Ear Examination

Eye
Hip
Blood
Hearing

Energy

How do the energy levels of Labrador Retrievers and Australian Shepherds compare?

5 / 5

Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd breeds are high-energy dogs, thus an active lifestyle suits them well.

Social Needs

Labrador Retriever vs Australian Shepherd social needs comparison

5 / 5

Labrador Retriever has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

4 / 5

Australian Shepherd has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Labrador Retriever vs Australian Shepherd exercise need comparison.

5 / 5

The Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd breeds need a high level of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They also make great companions for people who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy running, hiking, or other outdoor activities. These breeds are not suitable for people with a sedentary lifestyle or those who live in small apartments.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Labrador Retriever or Australian Shepherd?

1 / 5

Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd are active dogs that may not require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Labrador Retriever or Australian Shepherd?

3 / 5

Labrador Retriever is an average drooler, monitor for excessive drooling which may indicate health issues.

1 / 5

Australian Shepherd minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Labrador Retrievers or Australian Shepherds bark more/less frequently?

3 / 5

Labrador Retrievers bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

2 / 5

Australian Shepherd dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

Territorial

Is the Labrador Retriever or Australian Shepherd a better guard dog?

3 / 5

While Labrador Retriever dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

5 / 5

Australian Shepherd dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Labrador Retriever vs Australian Shepherd?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Roaming urge

Labrador Retriever vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

1 / 5

Prey Drive

Labrador Retriever or Australian Shepherd - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

2 / 5

4 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd entertained?

Fetch, Tug-of-war, Chase, Dog Parks, Walk, Run, Play, Walking, Cuddling, Exploring, Sniffing, Petting, Running, Boat ride, Swim, Tracking, Chasing, Smelling, Going out, Walks, Frisbee, Road trip, Meeting people, Shake, Swimming, Playdate, Chew, Smell, Walki, Being pet

Go to Beach, Walk, Frisbee, Hike, Backpacking, High Five, Speak, Walking, Petting, Sniffing, Tug-of-war, Play, Run, Chase, Jogging, Being chased, Tug of war, Running, Walks, Fetch, Sticks, Toys, Fetching, Napping, Kissing, Jumping, Heel, Squirrel gazing, Stare, Greet humans

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Labrador Retrievers or Australian Shepherds?

Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd are high-energy dogs that require a lot of mental and physical exercise. Without proper stimulation and attention, these breeds can become problematic. If you're considering these breeds, be prepared to invest time and effort in their exercise and training.

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

2 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Labrador Retriever or Australian Shepherd walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Labrador Retriever, it's at least 15 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Australian Shepherd, it's at least 14 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Labrador Retrievers or Australian Shepherds require more exercise?

In general most Labrador Retrievers usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Australian Shepherds usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Labrador Retrievers or Australian Shepherds?

1 / 5

The Labrador Retriever is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

3 / 5

The Australian Shepherd requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd dogs?

Ideally, Labrador Retriever should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Australian Shepherd should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Labrador Retrievers and Australian Shepherds?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Labrador Retriever or Australian Shepherd in cups?

Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd share the same recommended daily food intake of 2.5 cups, although the appropriate quantity may vary depending on the quality and nutritional content of their food.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Labrador Retriever or Australian Shepherd?

The average cost of a Labrador Retriever is somewhere $2.50 - $3.20 per day.

The average cost of an Australian Shepherd is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Labrador Retriever or Australian Shepherd?

The average per month expenses of a Labrador Retriever is between $74 - $95. This makes an average of $888 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of an Australian Shepherd is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Labrador Retrievers vs Australian Shepherds

5 / 5

Labrador Retriever is highly intelligent and very trainable.

4 / 5

Australian Shepherd is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Sensitivity Level

How do Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd compare in sensitivity?

5 / 5

These dog breeds are particularly attuned to its environment and the emotions of those around it. Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd can be easily overwhelmed by loud noises, new environments, unfamiliar people, or animals. This dog breed is best suited for individuals or families who are patient, gentle, and understanding of its sensitive nature. It may also benefit from a calm and stable home environment, with a consistent routine and plenty of positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Labrador Retriever vs Australian Shepherd?

2 / 5

4 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Labrador Retriever or Australian Shepherd?

2 / 5

Labrador Retrievers can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

3 / 5

Australian Shepherds are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Child Friendly

Do Labrador Retrievers or Australian Shepherds have a friendlier temperament towards children?

5 / 5

The typical characteristics of Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes them family pets. Their gentle and protective nature and calm mentality make them gel along quickly with the younger humans.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Labrador Retriever or Australian Shepherd?

5 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Labrador Retriever or Australian Shepherd breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

4 / 5

Labrador Retrievers are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

3 / 5

Australian Shepherds are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Labrador Retriever or Australian Shepherd?

5 / 5

Labrador Retrievers are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

3 / 5

Australian Shepherds are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Pet friendly

How do Labrador Retriever or Australian Shepherd dogs interact with other pets?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Labrador Retriever or Australian Shepherd?

5 / 5

Labrador Retrievers are highly friendly around strangers.

2 / 5

Australian Shepherds are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd?

5 / 5

Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd are known to be highly playful dogs. So if you're not up for all that, think about adopting slightly older Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd for a mellower experience.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Labrador Retrievers and Australian Shepherds compare?

5 / 5

The Labrador Retriever and Australian Shepherd are breeds of dogs that are known for being very easy to train. They are highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them a great choice for both experienced and novice dog owners.

Compare Labrador Retriever with other breeds