Australian Shepherd vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison

Australian Shepherd vs Siberian Husky - Breed ComparisonAustralian Shepherd is originated from United States but Siberian Husky is originated from Russia. Both Australian Shepherd and Siberian Husky are having almost same height. Both Australian Shepherd and Siberian Husky are having almost same weight. Both Australian Shepherd and Siberian Husky has almost same life span. Both Australian Shepherd and Siberian Husky has almost same litter size. Both Australian Shepherd and Siberian Husky requires Moderate maintenance.

History

australian shepherd - historyThe Australian Shepherd, known fondly as ‘Aussies’, is actually an American breed, with the first official registry being in the 1950s. Basque Shepherds from Spain settled in Australia at the end of the 19th century, later moving to the United Stated with their dogs in tow. It is from these dogs that the breed originated. In the UK too, this breed of dog has many enthusiastic followers.

For many years, the Australian Shepherd has been recognized for their wonderful abilities as stock- or herding dogs, and today in Australia they continue to work as stock dogs and often take part in herding trials.

More recently, this working dog breed has been selectively bred to develop both Toy- and Miniature Aussies, and the American Stock Dog Registry actually recognizes 3 sizes today.The Australian Shepherd Club of America was also founded in 1957 to promote the breed.

siberian husky - historySiberian Huskies are very close to Chukchi people.Chukchi is a tribe in Siberian nomads and huskies are beleived to be originated with them. DNA tests on huskies prove that they are the oldest among the dog breeds and they used them to travel fast. Also children used to sleep with them as they provide body heat to them. Siberian Huskies also like to be very close to the children. In 1908 at the gold rush, huskies were imported to Alaska and used as sled dogs. In Alaska they were used for dog sled race until today.

Siberian Huskies were exported from Siberia and they continued their journey in North America. American kennel club recognized them in 1930 and the Siberian club of america has been founded in 1938.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Working dog
Origin:
United States
Russia
Height Male:
51 - 58 cm
20 - 23 inches
54 - 60 cm
21 - 24 inches
Height Female:
46 - 56 cm
18 - 23 inches
50 - 56 cm
19 - 23 inches
Weight Male:
25 - 32 kg
55 - 71 pounds
20 - 27 kg
44 - 60 pounds
Weight Female:
16 - 30 kg
35 - 67 pounds
16 - 23 kg
35 - 51 pounds
Life Span:
13 - 15 Years
12 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 9
4 - 8
Size:
Medium dog
Large dog
Other Names:
Aussie
Chukcha, Chuksha
Colors Available:
Tri-colour - blue, blue merle, black and red merle, white markings
Black & White, White, Black, Agouti Piebald, Copper, Black & Tan Splash, Red, Silver, Sable Brown and Grey
Coat:
thick - medium length - straight to wavy
Medium, Dense, Harsh and Rough, Soft, Double layer, Straight and Thick
Shedding:
Constant
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social
Alert, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Outgoing, Social, Stubborn
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
No
New Owners Friendly:
No
No

Description

Coat

australian shepherd puppy - descriptionSimilar in appearance to the Border Collie, the Australian Shepherd is a medium sized dog and has a medium length coat which is straight to wavy with a weather resistant undercoat. The range of coat colours is amazing, and you’ll find blue, blue merle, black and red merle and all of these are with or without tan points. The Australian Shepherd is a drop-eared breed where prick ears are sometimes seen. Some Aussies are born with naturally bobbed tails while most have full, long tails.

Different Eye Colour Combinations

There is variety in the eye colour too, and they are often heterochromatic, which means that they can have two different coloured eyes or the one eye can even be bi-coloured. Most times the eyes are brown, but they can be blue too.

siberian husky puppy - descriptionSiberian Huskies are said to be one of the beautiful dog breeds in the world. They are well known for their thick coat and blue coloured eyes. Siberian Huskies are really challenging for new dog owners. It is preferred to give them a fenced yard and the fence should be sunk well to the ground to prevent them from escaping, as they always try to escape. They are medium sized working dogs having high energy level. Initially huskies were developed as sled dogs.

They are affectionate and intelligent breed. Also they are independent in nature. They are kid friendly dogs and also are friendly with everyone including strangers. Siberian Huskies will be a good companion when given proper training and care. They are low shedders but it depends on the climate it lives. Normally they dont shed in cold climate but in warmer climate they will do. They shed heavily twice in a year for a three week strech. Normally Siberian Huskies do not suit well for apartment living. They are not watchdogs as they will bark very rarely but it enjoys to howl.

Characteristics

australian shepherd dog - characteristicsThe Australian Shepherd is an intelligent dog, learning quickly. As a herding dog, he also has strong guarding instincts and will make a good watch dog. The dog has a balanced, even disposition, and even though he may show some reserve, he is certainly not a shy dog and isn’t aggressive.

He Craves Human Companionship

Your Aussie is a kind, loving, and devoted pet. He loves his human family and wants to spend lots of time with them. Don’t leave him without human companionship as he craves it and forms strong bonds with his family. Provide him with good care and with lots of fun and games and you’ve got an exceptional friend for life.

Children friendliness

siberian husky dog - characteristicsSiberian Huskies are very much affectionate with children. But it is necessary to train both parties to behave with each other. It is recommended to have an adult supervision for younger children.

Special talents

They are very good diggers and so they should be watched if they are in garden. They tolerate well in cold weather and mostly huskies can be seen in the area of snow falling. They are very good in pulling sledges.

Adaptability

They adapt well in cold weather. It is advised to give them a well fenced yard. They do not like apartment living. Also they do not like to be alone and if kept alone for long time they will disturb your house and make it dirty.

Learning ability

>Training huskies is not so easy but it is a challenging job. Hence they are not recommended for new dog owners. Only experienced dog owners can train them and also high patience is required.

Health Problems

australian shepherd puppies - health problemsAussies are a healthy breed and won’t cost you a fortune at the vet. However, like every other breed, they are also prone to certain health conditions such as cancer. When choosing a puppy, always look for a good, reputable breeder who can show you health clearances.

We look at some common health ailments to be alert about

Hip Dysplasia

This is a dog ailment that can be inherited. It is where the femur doesn't fit properly into the pelvic socket of the hip joint. Also, as the dog ages, arthritis can develop.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy an hereditary disorder where the seizures your dog gets can be treated and controlled.

Osteochondrosis Dissecans, commonly known as OCD is an orthopedic condition which comes about because of improper growth of cartilage in the joints. It can cause painful stiffening of the elbow joint for instance.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy or PRA is a degenerative eye disorder that can finally lead to blindness. Reputable Aussie dog breeders have their dogs' eyes certified regularly by a veterinary ophthalmologist.

Your Aussie Puppy Needs Vaccinations

Your newborn Australian Shepherd may well be strong and healthy, but he isn’t immune from life-threatening illnesses. Vaccinations are imperative for your Aussie puppy, with vets usually recommending that puppies be vaccinated for the first time from 6 to 8 weeks of age.

These vaccinations will include the 5-in-one and includes Parvovirus, Distemper, Hepatitis and Parainfluenza. Later on the puppy will get his first rabies shot and he will also require booster vaccinations.

siberian husky puppies - health problemsSiberian husky suffers with minor health problems such as hypothyroidism, Progressive retinal atrophy and cataract. They are also prone to lose pigment in nose and muzzle. Some health problems occur due to bad breeding practices and some due to environmental problems where the puppy is brought up. They have also chances to get skin disease such as allergies.

Hair fall

When they are in the age of 2 to 5 years, they are having chances to hairloss due to Alopecia X. This condition mainly causes due to hair clipping in Siberians. They will be healthy but the hair will not grow in affected areas. Siberians are double coated and when the situation prevails the topcoat will fall off first and the undercoat follows it. The hair will fall off in both side of the dog in same area. Spaying or neutering will reduce such problems as it causes because of sex hormones.

Caring The Pet

General Grooming

australian shepherd dogs - caringWith his medium length coat, the Australian Shepherd sheds. In fact this particular breed sheds his hair the entire year round, but you’ll notice that with the arrival of Spring, he sheds more as this is when he is losing his Winter coat. You will most certainly need to brush his coat at least 2x a week to get rid of all those tufts of hair and to also prevent matting.

Feeding

A puppy will need 4 bowls of vet-recommended food a day. How much your adult Australian Shepherd gets will depend on his age, size and activity levels.The quality of food you buy will make a difference as it will keep your Aussie in good shape. Remember to include raw or cooked meat into his diet once a week or so. For more on feeding your Aussie, speak to your vet. Always ensure a constant source of fresh, cool water.

Training and Socialization

The Australian Shepherd is a strong willed dog, used to playing the dominant role with the herding of livestock. He’ll need firm training and socialization if you want to make him an amicable family pet.

Like many herding dogs, Australian Shepherds are loyal to their family and don’t easily take to strangers. Aussies make awesome companions for families with kids who have been taught how to treat dogs and other pets with kindness and gentleness. Just like a dog needs socialization, a child needs to respect a sleeping, feeding dog and to leave him in peace.

Feeding the puppy

siberian husky dogs - caringIn one method of feeding the Husky puppies, the food will be given always available, but this method is not recommended as it has some problems. This method is followed by large breeders because of lack of time to spend on individuals. Another method is to keep meal for 3 times a day. At about 12 to 16 weeks of age the meals can be reduced to two times a day. In this method the meal given should not be there after 15 minutes even if puppy did not ate. The important training for Husky puppies while eating is they should not growl when the food is taken by its master.

Feeding the adult

Many Siberian experts don't like commercial dog food as they are sure that because of such foods dog may get problems like itching, dandruff, loose stools and hot spots. According to experts the good food for them are home cooked food from turkey, real chicken, beef and fish. Fruits and fresh vegetables are also very good for them. It is advised by dog owners to add only low salt or even without salt in their food. Also sugar is not good for them as it will bring some problems like hairfall and itching.

Points for Good Health

Siberian huskies can be easily groomed. Their eyes should be checked in puppyhood as they get chances to get eye problems and hereditary eye diseases. It is advised to make siberians to bath once in a year and they must be brushed once in a week. While brushing, the ears should be inspected and its teeth should be brushed. It is good to trim the long hairs in their feet and also nails should be trimmed slightly and very carefully as they have blood vessels there.

Games and Exercises

To give training and exercises to Siberian Huskies, the home should be prepared for them and it is better to make a fenced yard to prevent escapes. They have very high chances to escape and so the fence should be minimum 6 feet high and base should be strong as it should not break it or dig under to escape. Since they are active from their puppyhood they must be given lots of exercise. They should be socialized in their early stages as to get good behaviour and manners.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  2. Australian Shepherd vs Australian Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  3. Australian Shepherd vs Austrailian Blue Heeler - Breed Comparison
  4. Australian Shepherd vs Australian Red Heeler - Breed Comparison
  5. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  6. Bearded Collie vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  7. Collie vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  8. Dutch Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  9. Blue Healer vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  10. English Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  11. Australian Collie vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  12. Catahoula Cur vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  13. Catalan Sheepdog vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  14. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  15. Bergamasco vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  16. Berger Picard vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  17. Appenzell Mountain Dog vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  18. Queensland Heeler vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  19. German Coolie vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  20. Bohemian Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  21. Croatian Sheepdog vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  22. Red Heeler vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  23. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  24. Blue Lacy vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  25. New Zealand Huntaway vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  26. Siberian Husky vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  27. Siberian Husky vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  28. Akita vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  29. Doberman Pinscher vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  30. Samoyed vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  31. Alaskan Malamute vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  32. Bullmastiff vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  33. Great Pyrenees vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  34. Boerboel vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  35. Presa Canario vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  36. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  37. Labrador Husky vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  38. Argentine Dogo vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Giant Schnauzer vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  40. Africanis vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  41. Belgian Shepherd vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  42. Goldador vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  43. Bandog vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  44. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  45. Dogo Cubano vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  46. Dogo Sardesco vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  47. Beauceron vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  48. Central Asian Shepherd vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  49. Mackenzie River Husky vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  50. Black Russian Terrier vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds