Compare breeds
Australian Shepherd vs German Shepherd
Australian Shepherd
Medium
German Shepherd
Medium
Choose the Australian Shepherd if you want…
- less hair around the house
Choose the German Shepherd if you want…
Much the same on our scales — meet both and see which personality suits you.
Side by side
| Trait | Australian Shepherd | German Shepherd |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Large |
| Weight | 16–32 kg (35–71 lb) | 22–40 kg (49–88 lb) |
| Height | 46–58 cm (18–23 in) | 55–65 cm (22–26 in) |
| Life span | 12–15 years | 9–13 years |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Energy | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Trainability | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Good with children | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Good with other pets | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Suits a flat | 1/5 | 1/5 |
| Shedding | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Grooming needs | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Barking / vocal | 3/5 | 3/5 |
Quick answers
Which is bigger, the Australian Shepherd or the German Shepherd?
The German Shepherd — typically about 1.3 times the weight. Australian Shepherd: 16–32 kg (35–71 lb); German Shepherd: 22–40 kg (49–88 lb).
Which lives longer, the Australian Shepherd or the German Shepherd?
The Australian Shepherd, on average. Australian Shepherd: 12–15 years; German Shepherd: 9–13 years.
Is the Australian Shepherd or the German Shepherd better with children?
We rate them the same. Both still need supervision with young children.
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Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts