New Zealand Heading Dog vs Australian Shepherd

At a Glance

New Zealand Heading DogCategoryAustralian Shepherd
HerdingBreed GroupHerding
New ZealandOriginUnited States
51–56 cmHeight46–58 cm
14–20 kgWeight18–29 kg
10 - 14 yearsLifespan12-15 years
120 min/dayExercise90 min/day
SmoothCoat TypeDouble
MediumCoat LengthMedium

Ratings Comparison

New Zealand Heading DogTraitAustralian Shepherd
Very High
Energy Level
Very High
Very High
Trainability
Very High
High
Affection
High
Very High
Intelligence
Very High
Moderate
Shedding
Moderate
High
Grooming Ease
Moderate
Moderate
Barking
Moderate
High
Good w/ Kids
High
Moderate
Good w/ Pets
Moderate
Very Low
Apartment
Low
Very High
Families
Very High
High
First-Time Owners
Moderate
High
Playfulness
Very High
Very Low
Drooling
Low

New Zealand Heading Dog vs Australian Shepherd FAQ

Is a New Zealand Heading Dog or Australian Shepherd better for families?+

Both the New Zealand Heading Dog and Australian Shepherd rate equally well for families with a score of 5/5.

Which is easier to train, a New Zealand Heading Dog or Australian Shepherd?+

Both breeds score 5/5 for trainability, making them equally easy to train.

Does a New Zealand Heading Dog or Australian Shepherd shed more?+

The New Zealand Heading Dog has a shedding level of 3/5, while the Australian Shepherd scores 3/5. They shed about the same amount.

Does a New Zealand Heading Dog or Australian Shepherd need more exercise?+

The New Zealand Heading Dog needs about 120 minutes of daily exercise, while the Australian Shepherd requires around 90 minutes. The New Zealand Heading Dog is the more active breed.

Which lives longer, a New Zealand Heading Dog or Australian Shepherd?+

The New Zealand Heading Dog has an average lifespan of 10 - 14 years, while the Australian Shepherd lives approximately 12-15 years.

Which is better for apartment living, a New Zealand Heading Dog or Australian Shepherd?+

The Australian Shepherd is better suited to apartment living. The New Zealand Heading Dog scores 1/5 and the Australian Shepherd scores 2/5.