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Australian Shepherd vs English Bulldog

Discover the differences between Australian Shepherd and English Bulldog to make the best choice for your situation.

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Australian Shepherd
United States

Australian Shepherd

Herding Group
Medium

Highly energetic, intelligent, and eager to please, this breed thrives on activity and close human bonds. Known for loyalty and agility, it makes an excellent companion for active families.

English Bulldog
England

English Bulldog

Non-Sporting Group
Medium

Stocky, courageous, and affectionate, this breed charms with its wrinkled face and calm nature. Loyal and gentle, it thrives as a loving family companion.

Quick comparison

Size:

Medium

Male:

23–29 kg

Coat:

Double coat, medium length

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Female:

18–25 kg

Energy:

High energy

Size:

Medium

Male:

23–25 kg

Coat:

Short, smooth

Lifespan:

8–10 years

Female:

18–23 kg

Energy:

Low activity needs

Personality & behavior

Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.

Australian Shepherd

Friendliness
4/5

Generally sociable, bonds well with family members

Intelligence
5/5

Very quick learner, excels at problem-solving

Energy Level
5/5

Extremely active, requires plenty of exercise

Playfulness
5/5

Loves games, enjoys interactive playtime

Adaptability
3/5

Can adjust, but prefers routine and familiarity

English Bulldog

Friendliness
5/5

Affectionate and gentle with family and children

Intelligence
3/5

Learns basic commands with some patience

Energy Level
2/5

Prefers lounging over vigorous physical activity

Playfulness
3/5

Enjoys play but tires fairly quickly

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to most living environments

Care needs

Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements

Australian Shepherd

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (2–3 times weekly)
Exercise:
60–120 minutes daily
Shedding:
Seasonal shedding
Trainability:
Highly trainable
Climate tolerance:
Tolerates cold well
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, epilepsy

English Bulldog

Grooming:
Minimal grooming needed (weekly)
Exercise:
20–40 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Struggles with heat
Health concerns:

Brachycephalic syndrome, skin fold infections

Suitability

How well each breed fits different living situations and families

Australian Shepherd

First-time Owner
2/5

Challenging for beginners

Needs experienced, consistent training and mental stimulation

Apartment Living
2/5

Not ideal

Requires space and high activity levels to thrive

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Excellent match

Thrives with active owners who provide regular physical and mental exercise

Kids
4/5

Good fit

Energetic yet gentle, but may herd or nip during play

Multiple Pets
4/5

Usually compatible

Generally sociable but may try to herd other pets

Being Left Alone
1/5

Prone to anxiety

Dislikes being left alone for long periods and may develop destructive behaviors

English Bulldog

First-time Owner
4/5

Good option

Easygoing, low-maintenance nature suits owners with limited dog experience

Apartment Living
5/5

Excellent fit

Moderate exercise needs and calm demeanor work well in small living spaces

Active Lifestyle
2/5

Not ideal

Low stamina and breathing issues make them unsuited for high-activity lifestyles

Kids
5/5

Very suitable

Gentle, patient, and tolerant with young children when properly socialized

Multiple Pets
4/5

Usually compatible

Generally sociable but may need guidance with other pets, especially dogs

Being Left Alone
1/5

Not recommended

They struggle with long periods alone and are prone to separation anxiety

Breed strengths

What each breed excels at and their best qualities

Australian Shepherd

  • Highly intelligent and quick to learn tasks
  • Strong herding instincts and work drive
  • Loyal and forms close family bonds
  • Excellent stamina for long activity periods
  • Generally healthy with few breed-specific issues

English Bulldog

  • Affectionate with family members
  • Generally good with children
  • Low exercise requirements
  • Minimal grooming needs
  • Adaptable to apartment living

Challenges & considerations

Potential challenges and considerations for each breed

Australian Shepherd

  • Needs significant daily mental stimulation
  • Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
  • Requires extensive physical exercise every day
  • Can be wary or reserved with strangers
  • May herd children or other pets instinctively

English Bulldog

  • Prone to respiratory problems
  • High risk of overheating
  • Susceptible to skin infections
  • Can be stubborn during training
  • Tends to drool frequently

Ready to choose your perfect breed?

Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.

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