Afghan Hound vs Australian Shepherd Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Tazi or Little Blue Dog?

Compare the Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Tazi or a Little Blue Dog? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

Eastern Greyhound / Persian Greyhound, Da Kochyano Spay, Sage Balochi, Tazi, Ogar Afgan, Baluchi Hound, Tazhi Spay

Little Blue Dog, Aussie

Weight

What is the average weight of Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd?

50.0 pounds ( 23 kg )

62.5 pounds ( 28 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd

27.5 inches ( 69.9 cm )

21.5 inches ( 54.6 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Afghan Hound or Australian Shepherd?

Afghan Hound has low obesity risk, but needs exercise and food monitoring for optimal health.

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

Hypoallergenic

Are Afghan Hounds or Australian Shepherds hypoallergenic, or neither?

Yes

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Afghan Hounds are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Unfortunately, the Australian Shepherd is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd dogs?

Aloof
Dignified
Independent
Clownish
Happy

Active
Friendly
Intelligent
Loving
Affectionate
Good-natured
Protective

Shedding Level

Do Afghan Hounds shed more than Australian Shepherds, or which breed sheds more, Afghan Hounds or Australian Shepherds?

Afghan Hound 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 Afghan Hound 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 Afghan Hound or Australian Shepherd?

Avoid Afghan Hounds as watchdogs - they're not effective.

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.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd breeds?

saluki (persian greyhound)

Basque Shepherd

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Afghan Hound 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

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 Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd breeds first developed?

ancient times

1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd?

Sporting (AKC:1926)
Sighthound & Pariah (UKC)

Herding (AKC:1991 & UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd dogs?

Brown

Blue
Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd?

Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd breeds?

Black
Red
Cream
Blue
Silver
White

Black
Red
Blue

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd breeds?

Afghan Hounds are known for their coat length.

Australian Shepherds have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd?

12-14 puppies per pregnancy

An Afghan Hound can have a litter of 12-14 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.

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

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

Afghan Hound 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 Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Afghan Hound 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 Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd breeds?

Demodectic Mange
Cataracts
Hip Dysplasia
Thyroid
Corneal Opacities

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

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd?

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Retinal Dysplasia
Glaucoma

Distichiasis
Deafness
OCD
Nasal Solar Dermatitis
Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd breeds?

Eye
Hip X-Rays
Heart

Eye
Hip
Blood
Hearing

Energy

How do the energy levels of Afghan Hounds and Australian Shepherds compare?

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

Social Needs

Afghan Hound vs Australian Shepherd social needs comparison

Afghan Hound has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

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

Exercise Needed

Afghan Hound vs Australian Shepherd exercise need comparison.

Afghan Hounds require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Australian Shepherds need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Afghan Hound or Australian Shepherd?

Afghan Hound 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, Afghan Hound or Australian Shepherd?

The Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Afghan Hounds or Australian Shepherds bark more/less frequently?

Afghan Hounds are typically quiet and only bark when needed, such as to alert their owner or when in distress.

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 Afghan Hound or Australian Shepherd a better guard dog?

Afghan Hound dogs are not typically good guard dogs due to their lack of protective nature and weak territorial drive.

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: Afghan Hound vs Australian Shepherd?

Roaming urge

Afghan Hound vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Afghan Hound or Australian Shepherd - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd entertained?

Walking, Running

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, Afghan Hounds or Australian Shepherds?

Medium

Afghan Hounds are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

High

Australian Shepherds are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Afghan Hound or Australian Shepherd walk each week?

8 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Afghan Hound, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

14 miles / week

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 Afghan Hounds or Australian Shepherds require more exercise?

45 minutes

In general most Afghan Hounds usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

90 minutes

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, Afghan Hounds or Australian Shepherds?

Afghan Hounds have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.

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

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd dogs?

Daily

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

Weekly

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 Afghan Hounds and Australian Shepherds?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Afghan Hound or Australian Shepherd in cups?

3 cups

For an average 44-60 pound (20 - 27 kg) Afghan Hound feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

2.5 cups

For an average 55-70 pound (25 - 32 kg) Australian Shepherd feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Afghan Hound or Australian Shepherd?

$3.90 - $4.20 / day

The average cost of an Afghan Hound is somewhere $3.90 - $4.20 per day.

$1.70 - $2.00 / 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, Afghan Hound or Australian Shepherd?

$112 - $126 / month

The average per month expenses of an Afghan Hound is between $112 - $126. This makes an average of $1344 - $1512 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.

$48 - $63 / month

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: Afghan Hounds vs Australian Shepherds

Afghan Hound is an independent and stubborn breed with low obedience intelligence, making training a test of patience.

Australian Shepherd is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Sensitivity Level

How do Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd compare in sensitivity?

These dog breeds are particularly attuned to its environment and the emotions of those around it. Afghan Hound 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: Afghan Hound vs Australian Shepherd?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Afghan Hound or Australian Shepherd?

Afghan Hounds make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

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

Child Friendly

Do Afghan Hounds or Australian Shepherds have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Afghan Hounds are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Australian Shepherds make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Senior-friendly

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

Cat Friendly

Do Afghan Hound or Australian Shepherd breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Afghan Hounds are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

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: Afghan Hound or Australian Shepherd?

{Afghan Hounds and Australian Shepherds are average friendly towards other dogs. If they are raised with other dogs, they are likely to get along with them. And, if they are socialized properly from a young age, they will usually be great with other dogs.

Pet friendly

How do Afghan Hound or Australian Shepherd dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Afghan Hound or Australian Shepherd?

They can be below average friendly around strangers, being keen of eye and sharp of tongue, and very quick to announce strangers at the door. Once the visitor comes in, some Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd may be friendly and outgoing, while others can be standoffish or suspicious towards strangers.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Afghan Hound and Australian Shepherd?

Afghan Hounds have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Australian Shepherds are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Afghan Hounds and Australian Shepherds compare?

Afghan Hounds are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

The Australian Shepherd is highly intelligent and eager to please, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced dog owners due to its easy trainability.