Chihuahua vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

Chihuahua vs Australian Shepherd - Breed ComparisonAustralian Shepherd is originated from United States but Chihuahua is originated from Mexico. Australian Shepherd may grow 35 cm / 14 inches higher than Chihuahua. Australian Shepherd may weigh 28 kg / 62 pounds more than Chihuahua. Australian Shepherd may live 5 years less than Chihuahua. Australian Shepherd may have more litter size than Chihuahua. Australian Shepherd requires Moderate Maintenance. But Chihuahua requires Low Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Toy dog
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United States
Mexico
Height Male:
51 - 58 cm
20 - 23 inches
15 - 23 cm
5 - 10 inches
Height Female:
46 - 56 cm
18 - 23 inches
15 - 23 cm
5 - 10 inches
Weight Male:
25 - 32 kg
55 - 71 pounds
2 - 4 kg
4 - 9 pounds
Weight Female:
16 - 30 kg
35 - 67 pounds
2 - 4 kg
4 - 9 pounds
Life Span:
13 - 15 Years
12 - 20 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 9
2 - 5
Size:
Medium
Toy
Other Names:
Aussie
None
Colors Available:
Tri-colour - blue, blue merle, black and red merle, white markings
Fawn, white and black, tan
Coat:
thick - medium length - straight to wavy
Short- and long haired
Shedding:
Constant
Moderate, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Sweet
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
No
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

History

australian shepherdThe 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.

chihuahuaQuite a bit of the Chihuahua’s history is shrouded in mystery, and there are different versions about its origins.

While historians speculate, most will agree that the tiny dog hails from Mexico. The UK Kennel Club considers the smooth- and long coat Chihuahuas as 2 distinct breeds.It was in 1904 that the Chihuahua became a registered breed by the American Kennel Club.

Chihuahua is actually the name of a state in Mexico, and it is amazing that Chihuahua specimens were found way back in the 1800's already. Today the Chihuahua is a very popular dog breed in several countries.

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.

chihuahua puppy - descriptionThe small Chihuahua stands at about 15 – 23 cm and he weighs about 1,5 – 4kg.

You’ll notice that he shivers when he is excited or when he is cold or frightened. Some people buy him a jersey to don on cooler days. With this tiny toy dog, you get a short- and a long coated Chihuahua.

This is the smallest dog breed and his coat is available in a number of colors such as fawn, tan, white and black. It is the dog’s round apple-shaped head which is a distinctive feature. He has erect ears and huge fruit-bat type eyes.

Temperament:

The Chihuahua is such an alert, fun-loving, feisty little dog, and though he may appear to be an ideal pet for children, he actually isn’t. He is too dainty and frail, and a child, during play, could accidentally crush him.

It’s a pity though because he just loves being around his human family. He is also a highly strung dog, and given the chance, he’ll nip and even bite during games. It is why socialization and training are considered important for the Chihuahua.

Just like with children, how you raise and treat your Chihuahua will determine how he turns out. He is such a sweet little dog that training and socialization can remove these unwanted characteristics. He is very intelligent and responds well to training.

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.

chihuahua dog - characteristicsSmall and feisty, the Chihuahua’s personality isn’t set in stone, and the tiny dog can be either shy and timid or he can be social, confident and jaunty.

They're always loyal and affectionate to their human owners, but they don’t get on too well with- and are wary of small children who aren’t disciplined and who could hurt them.

With his big eyes and big ears together with his comical antics, they can be a source of entertainment for their human owners. He is easy to train too and even though he is small, he doesn’t think he is, and he is willing to use his big personality to make you a loving, loyal and devoted companion.

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.

chihuahua puppies - health problemsThe Chihuahua doesn't have any particular health issues, more so when you get him from a reputable breeder. With good care he can reach 20 years of age.

Hypoglycemia:

Known as low blood sugar, hypoglycemia is easily treatable, but if it isn’t caught early it can be fatal.Hypoglycemia makes a dog lethargic and he’ll shiver and could go into a coma. Get him to the vet immediately.

Bloat:

Gastric Dilatation or bloat is when the stomach twists, it becomes enlarged and blood supply is cut off to the stomach. Left untreated, it can be fatal.

Dental Disease:

Chihuahuas are susceptible to dental problems, so you will need to brush his teeth 2 or 3 times a week to prevent tartar build-up, gum disease, loss of teeth and other diseases.

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.

Diet:

chihuahua dogs - caringAlways make sure to choose a high-quality dog food for your Chihuahua as this will keep him in tip-top health. A healthy Chihuahua can live to be 20 years of age. Speak to a veterinarian for recommendations on the best type of food to feed your tiny pet.

Giving him some home-made food such as brown rice, vegetables and cooked chicken for instance will be a welcome treat for him. Make sure he always has a bowl of fresh, cool water close by.

Exercise:

The Chihuahua may well be the smallest toy sized dog breed, but don’t be mistaken – he has plenty of energy and is constantly prancing around. He is more than capable of living in a small apartment, but even so he needs to be taken outside every now and then for a game or a walk.

Be careful with your small pet though, as too much exercise can lead to elbow- and hip dysplasia.

Grooming:

The Chihuahua is a moderate shedder with Spring being their heavier shedding period. Because of his small size, you won’t be bothered by too much hair. The short haired Chihuahua is easy to maintain and with a rubber brush, you can brush him gently twice a week.

You’ll also need to clip his nails and if you can’t manage this your vet can also help you.

Comparison with other breeds

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  4. Chihuahua vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
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  6. Chihuahua vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Chihuahua vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Chihuahua vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Chihuahua vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Chihuahua vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Chihuahua vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Chihuahua vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Chihuahua vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
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  15. Chihuahua vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
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  17. Chihuahua vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Chihuahua vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
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  26. Australian Shepherd vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Australian Shepherd vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Australian Shepherd vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Australian Shepherd vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Australian Shepherd vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Australian Shepherd vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Australian Shepherd vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Australian Shepherd vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Australian Shepherd vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Australian Shepherd vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Australian Shepherd vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Australian Shepherd vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Australian Shepherd vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Australian Shepherd vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Australian Shepherd vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Australian Shepherd vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Australian Shepherd vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Australian Shepherd vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Australian Shepherd vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Australian Shepherd vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Australian Shepherd vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Australian Shepherd vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Australian Shepherd vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Australian Shepherd vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Australian Shepherd vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison