Welsh Springer Spaniel vs Australian Shepherd Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Welshie or Aussie?

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

Differences only

Other names

Welsh Starter, Welsh Springer, Welshie, Welsh Cocker Spaniel

Little Blue Dog, Aussie

Weight

What is the average weight of Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd?

47.5 pounds ( 22 kg )

62.5 pounds ( 28 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd

18.5 inches ( 47 cm )

21.5 inches ( 54.6 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Welsh Springer Spaniel or Australian Shepherd?

Both the Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd breeds have an average to high tendency to gain weight if their weight is not closely monitored. It is important to maintain a balance between exercise and food intake to keep them at a healthy weight. This can be achieved by scheduling at least one daily walk and engaging in regular playtime with them.

Hypoallergenic

Are Welsh Springer Spaniels or Australian Shepherds hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Welsh Springer Spaniel nor Australian Shepherd are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd dogs?

Affectionate
Active
Playful
Intelligent
Loyal
Friendly
Stubborn

Active
Friendly
Intelligent
Loving
Affectionate
Good-natured
Protective

Shedding Level

Do Welsh Springer Spaniels shed more than Australian Shepherds, or which breed sheds more, Welsh Springer Spaniels or Australian Shepherds?

Welsh Springer Spaniel 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 Welsh Springer Spaniel 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 Welsh Springer Spaniel or Australian Shepherd?

Welsh Springer Spaniels make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

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.

Origin

What is the origin of Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd dog breeds?

Wales

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd breeds?

english springer spaniel, cocker spaniel

Basque Shepherd

Date of Birth

When were Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd breeds first developed?

1600s

1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd?

Sporting (AKC:1906)
Gun Dog Breeds (UKC)

Herding (AKC:1991 & UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd dogs?

Brown
Amber

Blue
Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd?

Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd breeds?

White
Red

Black
Red
Blue

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd breeds?

Welsh Springer Spaniels have medium-length coats.

Australian Shepherds have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd?

Wavy

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd?

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd, can have a litter of 12-15 puppies each on average. Nonetheless, it's important to keep in mind that litter size can differ significantly between individual dogs. Various factors such as the mother's health, breeding history, and genetics can have an impact on litter size.

Adaptability

Welsh Springer Spaniel 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 Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Welsh Springer Spaniel 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 Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd breeds?

Hip Dysplasia

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

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd?

Entropion
Elbow Dysplasia
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Cataracts
Glaucoma

Distichiasis
Deafness
OCD
Nasal Solar Dermatitis
Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd breeds?

Eye
Hip
Elbow
X-Rays
Eye Examination

Eye
Hip
Blood
Hearing

Energy

How do the energy levels of Welsh Springer Spaniels and Australian Shepherds compare?

Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd breeds are high-energy dogs, thus an active lifestyle suits them well.

Social Needs

Welsh Springer Spaniel vs Australian Shepherd social needs comparison

Welsh Springer Spaniel 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

Welsh Springer Spaniel vs Australian Shepherd exercise need comparison.

Welsh Springer Spaniels 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: Welsh Springer Spaniel or Australian Shepherd?

Welsh Springer Spaniel 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, Welsh Springer Spaniel or Australian Shepherd?

The Welsh Springer Spaniel 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 Welsh Springer Spaniels or Australian Shepherds bark more/less frequently?

Welsh Springer Spaniels bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

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 Welsh Springer Spaniel or Australian Shepherd a better guard dog?

Welsh Springer Spaniel dogs may not be the best choice as guard dogs because they do not have a strong instinct to defend their territory.

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: Welsh Springer Spaniel vs Australian Shepherd?

Roaming urge

Welsh Springer Spaniel vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Welsh Springer Spaniel or Australian Shepherd - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd entertained?

Tracking, Barn hunt, Obedience, Rally, Field work, Trick Dog, Reading to, Conformation

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, Welsh Springer Spaniels or Australian Shepherds?

Medium

Welsh Springer Spaniels 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 Welsh Springer Spaniel 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 Welsh Springer Spaniel, 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 Welsh Springer Spaniels or Australian Shepherds require more exercise?

45 minutes

In general most Welsh Springer Spaniels 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, Welsh Springer Spaniels or Australian Shepherds?

Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd dogs?

Weekly

Welsh Springer Spaniel and 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 Welsh Springer Spaniels and Australian Shepherds?

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Welsh Springer Spaniel or Australian Shepherd in cups?

2.5 cups

Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd share the same recommended daily food intake of 2.5 cups, although the appropriate quantity may vary depending on the quality and nutritional content of their food.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Welsh Springer Spaniel or Australian Shepherd?

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd have a similar average daily cost of around $1.70 - $2.00.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Welsh Springer Spaniel or Australian Shepherd?

$48 - $63 / month

When it comes to monthly expenses, both Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd have a similar average cost, ranging from $48 - $63. This results in an average yearly cost of around $576 - $756.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Welsh Springer Spaniels vs Australian Shepherds

The Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd breeds are considered very intelligent and easy to train.

Sensitivity Level

How do Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd compare in sensitivity?

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

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Welsh Springer Spaniel or Australian Shepherd?

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

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

Child Friendly

Do Welsh Springer Spaniels or Australian Shepherds have a friendlier temperament towards children?

The typical characteristics of Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd 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 - Welsh Springer Spaniel or Australian Shepherd?

Cat Friendly

Do Welsh Springer Spaniel or Australian Shepherd breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Welsh Springer Spaniels and Australian Shepherds 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: Welsh Springer Spaniel or Australian Shepherd?

Welsh Springer Spaniels are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

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

Pet friendly

How do Welsh Springer Spaniel or Australian Shepherd dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Welsh Springer Spaniel 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 Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd may be friendly and outgoing, while others can be standoffish or suspicious towards strangers.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Welsh Springer Spaniel and Australian Shepherd?

Welsh Springer Spaniels are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

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 Welsh Springer Spaniels and Australian Shepherds compare?

Welsh Springer Spaniels are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

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.