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Australian Shepherd vs Norjack Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Aussie or Norjack?

Compare the Australian Shepherd and Norjack breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Aussie or a Norjack? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Other names

Little Blue Dog, Aussie

Weight

What is the average weight of Australian Shepherd and Norjack?
62.5 pounds ( 28 kg )
13.5 pounds ( 6 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Australian Shepherd and Norjack
21.5 inches ( 54.6 cm )
11.5 inches ( 29.2 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Australian Shepherds or Norjacks hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

Unfortunately, neither Australian Shepherd nor Norjack 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 Shepherd and Norjack dogs?
Active
Friendly
Intelligent
Loving
Affectionate
Good-natured
Protective

Stubborn
Independent
Happy
Energetic
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Selfish
Fearless
Companionable
Spirited
Cheerful
Confidence
Lovable

Shedding Level

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

Australian Shepherd or Norjack 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 Australian Shepherd or Norjack. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Australian Shepherd and Norjack breeds?
Basque Shepherd

Norfolk Terrier and Jack Russell Terrier

Date of Birth

When were Australian Shepherd and Norjack breeds first developed?
1800s

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Australian Shepherd and Norjack dogs?
Blue
Brown
Amber

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Australian Shepherd and Norjack?
Black
Brown

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Australian Shepherd and Norjack breeds?
Black
Red
Blue

White
Brown
Sable
Red
Fawn

Coat Length

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

Australian Shepherds have longer coats compared to most dogs.

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

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Australian Shepherd and Norjack?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Australian Shepherd and Norjack?
Straight

Wiry

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Australian Shepherd and Norjack?

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.

4-8 puppies per pregnancy

A Norjack can have a litter of 4-8 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 Shepherd and Norjacks 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 Australian Shepherd and Norjack, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Australian Shepherd and Norjack 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 Shepherd and Norjack breeds?
Cataract
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hip Dysplasia
CEA
Von Willebrand's Disease

Patellar Luxation
Cataracts
Urolithiasis

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Australian Shepherd and Norjack?
Distichiasis
Deafness
OCD
Nasal Solar Dermatitis
Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Glaucoma
Lens Luxation
Ichthyosis
Ataxia
Optic Nerve Hypoplasia
Myasthenia Gravis

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Australian Shepherd and Norjack breeds?
Eye
Hip
Blood
Hearing

Eye Examination
BAER Testing
Blood And Urine Analysis
Skin and Hair Exams

Social Needs

Australian Shepherd vs Norjack social needs comparison

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

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

Sleeping Need

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

Australian Shepherds are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Norjacks sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Australian Shepherd vs Norjack?

Roaming urge

Australian Shepherd vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

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

Past times

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

Walking, Swimming, Fetch, Running, Toys, Chasing, Family time, Driving, Shopping, Eating Snacks, Walk

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Australian Shepherds or Norjacks?

High

Australian Shepherd and Norjack 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

Walks per Week

How many miles should Australian Shepherd or Norjack walk each week?

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.

10 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Norjack, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Australian Shepherds or Norjacks require more exercise?

90 minutes

Both Australian Shepherd and Norjack typically require a minimum of 90 minutes of exercise each day. The exercise can be spread throughout the day and may involve high-energy activities like walking, running, and playing.

Grooming

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

Australian Shepherd and Norjack are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

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

Weekly

Australian Shepherd and Norjack 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 Australian Shepherds and Norjacks?
Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Comb
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Cups

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

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.

1 cups

For an average 12-15 pound (5 - 7 kg) Norjack feed 1 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, Australian Shepherd or Norjack?

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

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

$1.00 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a Norjack is somewhere $1.00 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

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

$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.

$35 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a Norjack is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 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.

Sensitivity Level

How do Australian Shepherd and Norjack compare in sensitivity?

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

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

Apartment Friendly

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

Australian Shepherds and Norjacks are dogs that do well in apartments with sufficient exercise, but they would really appreciate a small yard.

Child Friendly

Do Australian Shepherds or Norjacks have a friendlier temperament towards children?

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

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

Senior-friendly

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

Cat Friendly

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

Australian Shepherds and Norjacks are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood.

Dog Friendly

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

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

Norjacks are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Pet friendly

How do Australian Shepherd or Norjack dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

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

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

Norjacks are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Australian Shepherd and Norjack?

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

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Australian Shepherds and Norjacks compare?

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.

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

Common match-ups