Fox Terrier vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

Fox Terrier vs Australian Shepherd - Breed ComparisonAustralian Shepherd is originated from United States but Fox Terrier is originated from United Kingdom. Australian Shepherd may grow 19 cm / 8 inches higher than Fox Terrier. Australian Shepherd may weigh 23 kg / 51 pounds more than Fox Terrier. Both Australian Shepherd and Fox Terrier has same life span. Australian Shepherd may have more litter size than Fox Terrier. Australian Shepherd requires Moderate Maintenance. But Fox Terrier requires Low Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Terrier dog
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United States
United Kingdom
Height Male:
51 - 58 cm
20 - 23 inches
35 - 39 cm
13 - 16 inches
Height Female:
46 - 56 cm
18 - 23 inches
32 - 36 cm
12 - 15 inches
Weight Male:
25 - 32 kg
55 - 71 pounds
8 - 9 kg
17 - 20 pounds
Weight Female:
16 - 30 kg
35 - 67 pounds
7 - 8 kg
15 - 18 pounds
Life Span:
13 - 15 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 9
4 - 6
Size:
Medium
Medium
Other Names:
Aussie
Wire hair fox terrier Wirehaired terrier Fox terrier Wire
Colors Available:
Tri-colour - blue, blue merle, black and red merle, white markings
predominant white base with brown markings of the face and ears, and usually a black saddle or large splotch of color; there may be other black or brown markings on the body.
Coat:
thick - medium length - straight to wavy
rough, Broken
Shedding:
Constant
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social
Alert, Energetic, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loyal, Playful, Stubborn
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Hard
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
No
New Owners Friendly:
No
No

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.

fox terrierThe Wirehaired Fox Terrier and the Smooth Fox Terrier were for over 100 years the same breed of dog. Now it is believed that they are two separate breeds with two separate ancestry. It is an English creation with Dachshunds, Fox Hound, English Hounds, and Beagle in their background. It is also believed that the Wales, Durham and Derbyshire extinct rough-coated black and tan working terrier. The white terrier breeds that exist today are related to the Fox Terrier. In addition, it is recognized that terrier breeds of today such as the Jack Russel, the Rat Terrier, and the Miniature Fox Terrier are descendants of the Fox Terrier.

They are one of the oldest of the terrier breeds dating back to the 17tth century in the British Isles. They were primarily farm dogs guarding against the fox and vermin. Like any terrier they go to ground – digging, growling, barking and lunging at the den until the animal comes out and the farmer killed it. The breed was made popular in England through their living with royalty. The Nots Kennel had a lot to do with this as well. King Edward VII’ Wire Fox Terrier came from the Notts Kennel. The Best Champion of Crufts in 1911 was a Wire Fox Terrier, and Queen Victoria had one as well. The Wire Fox Terrier finally became a family dog in the 1930’s. During this time there were feature movies and comic strips that feature a Wire Fox Terrier, such as The Thin Man and The Adventures of Tintin.

The late 1900’s saw the population moving off the farms, out of the country and into the cities. This caused a decline in the popularity of the breed. Keeping terriers born to hunt in the city proved a challenge in the beginning. Their popularity is influenced as well by the breeds success in the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York – second only to the Crufts Dog Show in England. Adding to their early success at Crufts, the Wirehaired Fox Terrier breed has won more Westminster Best in Show than any other with 14. Only five dogs have won at Westminster more than once and one of those is a Wirehaired Fox Terrier. A Smooth Fox Terrier won it three times.

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.

fox terrier puppy - descriptionThe Wirehaired Fox terrier is a sturdy dog with features quite similar to the Smooth Fox Terrier. It is symmetrical with a short back, round, dark eyes, a body that is shorter and ears that are v-shaped. He is medium sized with a flat skull that narrows as it approaches the nose. The nose is black, and the muzzle also tapers to it. The breed has a high, docked tail outside the United Kingdom. The tail is natural in the United Kingdom. They don’t have a broad or narrow chest, but it is deep. Laid back shoulders and a short back are signs of good breeding. Their legs are strong, and their feet have tough, cushioned pads.

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.

Children friendliness

fox terrier dog - characteristicsThe Wirehaired Fox Terrier is good with children but if teased and frustrated he could bite. Children should know how to play with them and not to tease them.

Special talents

He is great at performing tricks, tracking, agility, watch dog, competitive hunting or field trials.

Adaptability

The Wirehaired Fox Terrier is quite adaptable and can live anywhere. He is not a big dog but remember he is very high energy.

Learning ability

The breed is very smart but being independent thinkers, they can be difficult to train at times. Consistency and patience are needed when training the Wirehaired Fox Terrier. They get bored easily and if training sessions are not fun you will lose them. This is a breed that loves people but need constant supervision and companionship.

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.

fox terrier puppies - health problemsThis is basically a healthy breed, but there are some potential issues that could arise:

  1. Cataracts
  2. Causes a cloudiness and can cause blindness
  3. Luxating Patellas
  4. “Floating Kneecaps” – dislocated kneecaps. Causes lameness and arthritis
  5. Legg-Calve-Perthes Syndrome
  6. Causes a very serious muscle loss in the dog’s legs
  7. Elbow and Hip Dysplasia
  8. Causes lameness and arthritis
  9. Epilepsy
  10. Causes seizures
  11. Shoulder Dislocation
  12. Causes pain and arthritis
  13. Mast Cell Tumors
  14. Cancer – could be fatal
  15. Post Nasal Drip
  16. Just annoying
  17. Deafness

This is possible in white terriers

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.

Feeding the puppy

fox terrier dogs - caringGive them two meals maybe three per day. Total food per day divided into the number of meals is 1/8-1/4 cup day.

Feeding the adult

Once again feed one-two meals per day and don’t overfeed. Total of ½ cup day

Games and Exercises

Being a terrier, the Wirehaired Fox Terrier needs a lot of exercise. He is energetic and playful. He loves to play ball, take interesting walks, and play in fenced areas. He needs to be in either a fenced area or on a leash as he will chase any small animal that he sees moving. But if you leave him unsupervised in a fenced area, don’t forget he is a terrier. He is likely to dig under or climb over a fence that isn’t entirely secure.

He loves earth dog trials, agility, tracking, hunting, flyball, and running. He hardly ever walks. He can play ball chasing for hours if you let him. Exercise is bonding for you and your Wirehaired Fox Terrier.

Comparison with other breeds

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