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Australian Cattle Dog vs American Rat Pinscher Comparison. Which dog is better for you: ACD or Rat-A-Pin?

Compare the Australian Cattle Dog and American Rat Pinscher breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a ACD or a Rat-A-Pin? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Other names

Red Heeler, Blue Heeler, ACD, Queensland Heeler, Hall39;s Heeler, Cattle Dog
Rat-A-Pin, Rat Pinscher

Weight

What is the average weight of Australian Cattle Dog and American Rat Pinscher?
35.0 pounds ( 16 kg )
33.0 pounds ( 15 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Australian Cattle Dog and American Rat Pinscher
19.0 inches ( 48.3 cm )
19.0 inches ( 48.3 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Australian Cattle Dogs or American Rat Pinschers hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

Unfortunately, neither Australian Cattle Dog nor American Rat Pinscher are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Australian Cattle Dog and American Rat Pinscher dogs?
Aggressive
Energetic
Loyal
Responsive
Alert
Intelligent
Protective

Playful
Loving
Energetic
Alert
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Responsive
Affectionate
Lively
Inquisitive
Clever

Shedding Level

Do Australian Cattle Dogs shed more than American Rat Pinschers, or which breed sheds more, Australian Cattle Dogs or American Rat Pinschers?

Australian Cattle Dogs are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

American Rat Pinschers are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Australian Cattle Dog or American Rat Pinscher?

Choose an Australian Cattle Dog 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.

American Rat Pinschers are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Origin

What is the origin of Australian Cattle Dog and American Rat Pinscher dog breeds?
Australia

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Australian Cattle Dog and American Rat Pinscher breeds?
Dingo

American Rat Terrier, Miniature Pinscher

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Australian Cattle Dog and American Rat Pinscher?
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

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DBR = Designer Breed Registry
DDKC = Designer Dogs Kennel Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

Date of Birth

When were Australian Cattle Dog and American Rat Pinscher breeds first developed?
1800s

Unknown

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Australian Cattle Dog and American Rat Pinscher?

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

An Australian Cattle Dog 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.

2-5 puppies per pregnancy

An American Rat Pinscher can have a litter of 2-5 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

Australian Cattle Dogs have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

American Rat Pinschers are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Australian Cattle Dog and American Rat Pinscher, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Australian Cattle Dog and American Rat Pinscher 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 Australian Cattle Dog and American Rat Pinscher breeds?
Deafness
OCD
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hip Dysplasia

Patellar Luxation
Demodectic Mange
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Australian Cattle Dog and American Rat Pinscher?
Cataracts
Lens Luxation

Allergies

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Australian Cattle Dog and American Rat Pinscher breeds?
Eye
Hip
Hearing

Hip X-Rays
Skin Scraping
Eye Examination
Allergy Tests
Skin Evaluation

Energy

How do the energy levels of Australian Cattle Dogs and American Rat Pinschers compare?

Australian Cattle Dogs thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

American Rat Pinschers' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Social Needs

Australian Cattle Dog vs American Rat Pinscher social needs comparison

Australian Cattle Dog has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

American Rat Pinscher has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Exercise Needed

Australian Cattle Dog vs American Rat Pinscher exercise need comparison.

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

American Rat Pinschers need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Australian Cattle Dog or American Rat Pinscher?

Australian Cattle Dogs are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

American Rat Pinschers sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Tendency to Bark

Do Australian Cattle Dogs or American Rat Pinschers bark more/less frequently?

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

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

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Australian Cattle Dog vs American Rat Pinscher?

Roaming urge

Australian Cattle Dog vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Australian Cattle Dog or American Rat Pinscher - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Australian Cattle Dog and American Rat Pinscher entertained?
Chase, Running, Walk, Run, Fetch, Play, Herding, Playing, Walking, Road trip, Playing fet, Hiking, Eating Snacks, Hike, Sleep, Kisses, Sniffing, Sprint, Tug-of-war, Hunt, Tracking, Investigating, Cuddling, Off-leash, Chewing, Herding birds, Bike ride, Go to Park, Jogging, Dog Parks

Play, Eating Snacks, Tug-of-war, Nap, Walk, Ride on scooter, Playdate, Run, Dog Parks, Cuddle, Playing fetch, Adventuring, Cuddling, Going on drives, Going on walks

Tolerance of being left alone

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Australian Cattle Dogs or American Rat Pinschers?

Australian Cattle Dog and American Rat Pinscher are breeds of dogs that do not require extensive grooming.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Australian Cattle Dogs vs American Rat Pinschers

Australian Cattle Dog is highly intelligent and very trainable.

American Rat Pinscher is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Sensitivity Level

How do Australian Cattle Dog and American Rat Pinscher compare in sensitivity?

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Australian Cattle Dog vs American Rat Pinscher?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Australian Cattle Dog or American Rat Pinscher?

The Australian Cattle Dog is not suitable for apartments and requires a large yard to thrive. Pent-up energy in small spaces can lead to destructive behavior.

American Rat Pinschers make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Child Friendly

Do Australian Cattle Dogs or American Rat Pinschers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

The typical characteristics of Australian Cattle Dog and American Rat Pinscher 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 - Australian Cattle Dog or American Rat Pinscher?

Cat Friendly

Do Australian Cattle Dog or American Rat Pinscher breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

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

American Rat Pinschers are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Australian Cattle Dog or American Rat Pinscher?

{Australian Cattle Dogs and American Rat Pinschers 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 Australian Cattle Dog or American Rat Pinscher dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Australian Cattle Dog or American Rat Pinscher?

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

American Rat Pinschers are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Australian Cattle Dog and American Rat Pinscher?

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

American Rat Pinschers are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Australian Cattle Dogs and American Rat Pinschers compare?

Australian Cattle Dogs are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

American Rat Pinschers are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

Common match-ups