Bloodhound vs Australian Shepherd
Size Category
Medium
Ideal For
First-time Owners
Maintenance Level
Moderate
Size Category
Small
Ideal For
Families, First-time Owners
Maintenance Level
High
Decision Helper
Quick Decision Guide
Bloodhound might be better if you:
- Want an easily trainable dog
- Prefer low-maintenance grooming
Australian Shepherd might be better if you:
- Want a dog great with children
- Want an easily trainable dog
- Lead an active lifestyle
- Prefer low-maintenance grooming
- Want a smaller dog that's easy to carry
Find Your Match
Quick Match Quiz
Question 1 of 7
What best describes your lifestyle?
Breed Overview
Bloodhound
The Bloodhound is a large and powerful breed known for its exceptional sense of smell and tracking ability. With a distinctive appearance that features loose skin, long ears, and a wrinkled face, Bloodhounds are both striking and imposing. They are generally friendly, affectionate, and good-natured, making them great family pets. Despite their size, they are known for being gentle and are often described as having a laid-back demeanor. Bloodhounds are intelligent and independent, which can sometimes lead to stubbornness, requiring consistent training and socialization from an early age. They thrive on companionship and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.
Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd, often known as the 'Aussie,' is a highly intelligent and energetic herding dog known for its agility, strength, and versatility. They have a medium-sized, well-proportioned body with a distinctive coat that can be merle, solid, or a combination of both. Their eyes can be blue, brown, or even one of each, adding to their unique appearance. Aussies are known for their loyalty, trainability, and protective instincts, making them excellent companions and working dogs. They thrive in active environments and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.
Key Statistics
Life Expectancy
Height (Male)
Weight (Male)
Breed Characteristics
Good with Children
Good with children
Excellent with children
Good with Other Dogs
Generally friendly with other dogs
Generally friendly with other dogs
Shedding
Moderate shedding level
Moderate shedding level
Grooming Needs
Low grooming needs
Low grooming needs
Trainability
Highly trainable
Highly trainable
Energy Level
Moderately energetic breed
Very energetic breed
Barking Tendency
Frequent barking tendency
Moderate barking tendency
Care Requirements
Care Requirements
Bloodhound
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Regular grooming to manage shedding and prevent matting.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet appropriate for their age and size.
Health Care
Check and clean their ears weekly to prevent infections.
Australian Shepherd
Exercise Needs
Provide a balanced diet tailored to their age, weight, and activity level.
Grooming
Brush coat at least 2-3 times a week to reduce shedding and matting.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet tailored to their age, weight, and activity level.
Health Care
Regularly check and clean ears to prevent infections.
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Exercise Needs
Provide a balanced diet tailored to their age, weight, and activity level.
Grooming
Regular grooming to manage shedding and prevent matting.
Grooming
Brush coat at least 2-3 times a week to reduce shedding and matting.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet appropriate for their age and size.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet tailored to their age, weight, and activity level.
Health Care
Check and clean their ears weekly to prevent infections.
Health Care
Regularly check and clean ears to prevent infections.
Additional Care Notes
Bloodhound
- •Brush their teeth regularly to maintain dental health.
Australian Shepherd
- •Ensure access to fresh water at all times.
Training & Exercise
Training & Exercise Guide
Bloodhound
Bloodhounds require consistent, positive reinforcement training starting from an early age. Basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel should be taught using treats and praises to encourage good behavior. Socialization with other dogs and people is crucial to help them develop a well-rounded temperament.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness and a strong independent streak can make training difficult.
- •Their strong scent drive may lead them to follow scents instead of commands.
- •Potential distractions in their environment can hinder focus during training sessions.
- •Separation anxiety can arise if they are not properly acclimated to being alone.
Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds require early socialization and obedience training to develop into well-rounded companions. Basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down are essential. Positive reinforcement methods, including treats and praise, work best with this intelligent breed. Consistency and patience are crucial, as they thrive on structure and routine.
Training Challenges
- •High energy levels leading to hyperactivity if not exercised enough
- •Strong herding instincts may cause them to chase after people or other animals
- •Stubbornness or distraction during training sessions
- •Separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods
- •Tendency to bark excessively if not properly trained
Bloodhound
Bloodhounds require consistent, positive reinforcement training starting from an early age. Basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel should be taught using treats and praises to encourage good behavior. Socialization with other dogs and people is crucial to help them develop a well-rounded temperament.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness and a strong independent streak can make training difficult.
- •Their strong scent drive may lead them to follow scents instead of commands.
- •Potential distractions in their environment can hinder focus during training sessions.
- •Separation anxiety can arise if they are not properly acclimated to being alone.
Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds require early socialization and obedience training to develop into well-rounded companions. Basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down are essential. Positive reinforcement methods, including treats and praise, work best with this intelligent breed. Consistency and patience are crucial, as they thrive on structure and routine.
Training Challenges
- •High energy levels leading to hyperactivity if not exercised enough
- •Strong herding instincts may cause them to chase after people or other animals
- •Stubbornness or distraction during training sessions
- •Separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods
- •Tendency to bark excessively if not properly trained
Training Resources
Bloodhound Training Guide
Australian Shepherd Training Guide
Find Breeders
Find Bloodhound Breeders
Find Australian Shepherd Breeders
Local Search Tips
When looking for a reputable breeder in your area, consider these approaches:
- 1.
Contact local veterinarians for breeder recommendations - They often know reputable breeders who prioritize health testing and proper care.
- 2.
Join breed-specific clubs in your area - These communities can provide valuable connections and insights about responsible breeders.
- 3.
Attend local dog shows to meet breeders - This gives you the opportunity to see their dogs and discuss breeding practices in person.