Central Asian Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

Central Asian Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd - Breed ComparisonCentral Asian Shepherd is originated from Russia but Australian Shepherd is originated from United States. Central Asian Shepherd may grow 12 cm / 5 inches higher than Australian Shepherd. Central Asian Shepherd may weigh 18 kg / 40 pounds more than Australian Shepherd. Both Central Asian Shepherd and Australian Shepherd has same life span. Both Central Asian Shepherd and Australian Shepherd has almost same litter size. Both Central Asian Shepherd and Australian Shepherd requires Moderate maintenance.

History

central asian shepherd - historyThis large dog breed is a native to the wilds of Central Asia, where it has been guarding and protecting livestock for thousands of years. In fact the Central Asian Shepherd is one of the oldest dog breeds of the world.

Early records as to the precise origin of the breed aren’t available. There are suggestions that the breed descended from ancient Middle Eastern livestock guarding breeds, while the other suggests the dog is descended from the Tibetan Mastiff. It is almost certain that the dog was domesticated from the Wolf.

australian shepherd - historyThe 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.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Herding dogs
Origin:
Russia
United States
Height Male:
62 - 70 cm
24 - 28 inches
51 - 58 cm
20 - 23 inches
Height Female:
62 - 70 cm
24 - 28 inches
46 - 56 cm
18 - 23 inches
Weight Male:
40 - 50 kg
88 - 111 pounds
25 - 32 kg
55 - 71 pounds
Weight Female:
40 - 50 kg
88 - 111 pounds
16 - 30 kg
35 - 67 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
13 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 10
6 - 9
Size:
Large dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Central Asian Ovtcharka
Aussie
Colors Available:
brindle, flecked and bi-colored, grey, black, White, tan
Tri-colour - blue, blue merle, black and red merle, white markings
Coat:
Short hair and long haired
thick - medium length - straight to wavy
Shedding:
Moderate, Seasonal
Constant
Temperament:
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
No

Description

central asian shepherd puppy - descriptionThe Central Asian Shepherd is a large dog, standing at up to 70cm in height and weighing in the region of 50kg. The dog is powerfully built and muscular, with the tail being traditionally docked to a short bob. Undocked, the tail is naturally long, thick at the base and tapering down. When relaxed, the tail is carried low, but when he becomes alert and excited, the tail is up and curved.

The ears of this dog are also traditionally cropped close to the head so that the dog almost appears to have no visible ears. This practice is also falling away and the natural ears of this breed are small and set at- or below eye level.

The brown eyes are small to medium size and are deep set. The Central Asian Shepherd Dog is double-coated with short to medium length hair and can be found in quite a few different colors such as tan, white, black, grey, brindle, ticked or a blend of these colors.

Temperament:

You have to be careful about where you buy your Asian Shepherd from as these dogs can be prone to aggression. With good breeding however, the dog is evenly tempered. As a first time dog owner, this shouldn’t be your first choice as it is a dominant, wilful, territorial, independent dog who will require a tough, firm, strong owner. Training and socialization are imperative to ensure he becomes obedient. He is then capable of forming close and strong bonds with his master, becoming a loyal and devoted pet. He also makes an excellent guard dog.

He is a protective dog breed, and once trained can get on well with children and other pets. He is the kind of dog that you will want to supervise around small children.

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.

Characteristics

central asian shepherd dog - characteristicsIt is important for those interested in the Central Asian Shepherd Dog as a pet to do some research on the breed. For instance this is a large dog that has been used for fighting.

While he can’t be described as being overly aggressive, you do need to be aware of his history, especially when you have small children in the home.

This dog is intelligent and confident too while also being exceptionally protective, and therefore he makes a good watchdog.

It is essential to have your Central Asian trained and socialized, and then he becomes far more relaxed and obedient, making him a loyal, loving guardian and friend.

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.

Health Problems

central asian shepherd puppies - health problemsThe Central Asian Shepherd doesn't have any hereditary ailments and he is generally a healthy, robust breed.

Large breeds are always prone to hip- and elbow dysplasia, an abnormal development of hip and elbow, brought about by a number of factors such as genetics, the wrong diet and rapid growth with some large puppies.

A dysplastic hip or elbow doesn’t move smoothly as it should, and this results in joint inflammation and pain. Symptoms can include loss of muscle mass, pain when moving around and difficulty with standing up again once your pet lies down.

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.

Caring The Pet

central asian shepherd dogs - caringCentral Asians are large dogs and when he is looked after well he can reach up to 15 years of age.

Diet:

It is important to see that he receives top quality, size-specific food, of which he eats a lot, and that it has all the vitamins and minerals he needs for his size.

A puppy will need high energy foods because of their energy. As he grows bigger, protein will become imperative. It is always a treat for your pet to add in some brown rice, vegetables and cooked chicken into his kibble from time to time.

Raw meat can be expensive, but if you can, it is important to ensure that your large pet gets some raw meat into his diet too, to keep his skin and coat healthy and to ward off disease. Make sure he has non-stop access to a bowl of fresh, cool water.

Grooming:

As previously mentioned, the coat of the Central Asian Shepherd can be fairly short but it can also be medium length. He isn't going to require any exceptional grooming but you will certainly need to give him a good brush twice a week, more so in his shedding periods. This will rid him of loose hair and keep his coat free of tangles and matting.

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.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  2. Australian Shepherd vs Australian Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  3. Australian Shepherd vs Austrailian Blue Heeler - Breed Comparison
  4. Australian Shepherd vs Australian Red Heeler - Breed Comparison
  5. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  6. Bearded Collie vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  7. Collie vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  8. Dutch Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  9. Blue Healer vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  10. English Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  11. Australian Collie vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  12. Catahoula Cur vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  13. Catalan Sheepdog vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  14. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  15. Bergamasco vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  16. Berger Picard vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  17. Appenzell Mountain Dog vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  18. Queensland Heeler vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  19. German Coolie vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  20. Bohemian Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  21. Croatian Sheepdog vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  22. Red Heeler vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  23. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  24. Blue Lacy vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  25. New Zealand Huntaway vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  26. Samoyed vs Central Asian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  27. Great Pyrenees vs Central Asian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Presa Canario vs Central Asian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  29. Labrador Husky vs Central Asian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  30. Argentine Dogo vs Central Asian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  31. Giant Schnauzer vs Central Asian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  32. Goldador vs Central Asian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  33. Dogo Cubano vs Central Asian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  34. Dogo Sardesco vs Central Asian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  35. Central Asian Shepherd vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  36. Central Asian Shepherd vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  37. Central Asian Shepherd vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  38. Central Asian Shepherd vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  39. Central Asian Shepherd vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Central Asian Shepherd vs Alaskan Malamute - Breed Comparison
  41. Central Asian Shepherd vs Bullmastiff - Breed Comparison
  42. Central Asian Shepherd vs Boerboel - Breed Comparison
  43. Central Asian Shepherd vs Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  44. Central Asian Shepherd vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  45. Central Asian Shepherd vs Belgian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  46. Central Asian Shepherd vs Bandog - Breed Comparison
  47. Central Asian Shepherd vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison
  48. Central Asian Shepherd vs Beauceron - Breed Comparison
  49. Central Asian Shepherd vs Black Russian Terrier - Breed Comparison
  50. Central Asian Shepherd vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds