Australian Cattle Dog vs Poodle
Discover the differences between Australian Cattle Dog and Poodle to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Australian Cattle Dog
Energetic, intelligent, and fiercely loyal, this breed thrives on activity and purpose. Renowned for agility and devotion, it makes an ideal companion for active households.
Poodle
Elegant, intelligent, and highly trainable, this breed stands out for its lively spirit and loyal companionship. Their hypoallergenic coat and playful personality make them ideal family pets.
Quick comparison
Medium
20–28 kg
Double coat, weather-resistant
12–16 years
18–25 kg
High energy
Medium
20–32 kg
Curly, dense
12–15 years
18–27 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Australian Cattle Dog
Generally reserved with strangers, loyal to family
Highly intelligent, learns commands and tasks quickly
Exceptionally energetic, needs vigorous daily activity
Enjoys interactive games and activities with owners
Adapts moderately to new environments and routines
Poodle
Warm and sociable with family and guests
Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands
Needs regular activity and enjoys exercise
Loves games and interactive playtime
Easily adjusts to new environments and routines
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Australian Cattle Dog
Progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia
Poodle
Hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Australian Cattle Dog
Challenging for beginners
Needs experienced handling and consistent training
Not ideal
High energy requires more space than most apartments offer
Perfect fit
Thrives with active owners who provide daily exercise and stimulation
Caution advised
May herd or nip at small children without close supervision
Selective compatibility
Can be territorial and dominant with other pets if not socialized
Poor fit
Dislikes being left alone and may develop destructive behaviors
Poodle
Great choice
Intelligent and eager to please, Poodles are easy for beginners to train and manage.
Highly suitable
Poodles adapt well to apartment life if given daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Perfect fit
Their energy and love for activity make them great companions for active households.
Very friendly
Poodles are gentle and patient with children when socialized from a young age.
Gets along well
Poodles usually coexist peacefully with other pets, especially if socialized early.
Prone to anxiety
Poodles can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods regularly.
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Australian Cattle Dog
- Highly intelligent and quick to learn
- Strong work ethic and stamina
- Loyal and protective with family
- Agile and excels at canine sports
- Low grooming needs with short coat
Poodle
- Highly intelligent and easy to train
- Hypoallergenic coat reduces shedding
- Strong bond with family members
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Excellent performance in canine sports
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Australian Cattle Dog
- Prone to stubborn or independent behavior
- Needs extensive daily physical exercise
- May be wary of unfamiliar people
- Can be prone to nipping or herding
- Risk for joint and eye health issues
Poodle
- Requires regular professional grooming
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Needs daily mental and physical stimulation
- Can be reserved with unfamiliar people
- Susceptible to certain genetic health issues
Ready to choose your perfect breed?
Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
Discover more helpful tools
Make use of our other free tools to get the most out of your pet experience