Australian Shepherd
medium breedVS
Labrador Retriever
large breedAustralian Shepherd vs Labrador Retriever
Two athletic all-American breeds. The Lab is the adaptable everyman's dog. The Aussie is the dedicated athlete's dog. Similar energy, very different obedience and herding instincts.
At a Glance
Australian Shepherd
Stat
Labrador Retriever
40–65 lbs
Weight
55–80 lbs
18–23 inches
Height
21–24 inches
12–15 yrs
Lifespan
10–14 yrs
very-high
Energy
high
moderate
Grooming
low
moderate
Chewing
heavy
medium
Size Class
large
Key Differences
1Herding
Aussies herd instinctively. Labs retrieve.
2Trainability
Both highly trainable but Aussies are faster learners.
3Strangers
Labs love everyone. Aussies are reserved.
4Off-Switch
Labs relax easily. Aussies need to be taught to settle.
Health Comparison
Australian Shepherd Health Concerns
- ⚠Hip Dysplasia
- ⚠Elbow Dysplasia
- ⚠Collie Eye Anomaly
- ⚠Epilepsy
Labrador Retriever Health Concerns
- ⚠Hip Dysplasia
- ⚠Elbow Dysplasia
- ⚠Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- ⚠Heart Disease
Temperament
Australian Shepherd
SmartWork-orientedExuberant
Labrador Retriever
OutgoingActiveGentleIntelligentTrusting
🏆 Our Verdict
Choose Lab for adaptable ease. Choose Aussie for responsive intelligence.
Choose Australian Shepherd if...
First-time owners. Social dog seekers.
Learn more about Australian Shepherd →Choose Labrador Retriever if...
Dog sport enthusiasts. Active families.
Learn more about Labrador Retriever →Dietary Needs
Australian Shepherd
Labrador Retriever
- 🍖 Highly food motivated - watch portions
- 🍖 Prone to weight gain
- 🍖 Benefits from joint-supporting nutrients
Recommended Products
Frequently Asked Questions
Better first-time?▼
Labs significantly easier.
Better with cats?▼
Labs — no herding instinct.
More protective?▼
Aussies more watchful.
Lives longer?▼
Aussies 12-15 vs Labs 10-12.
Sheds more?▼
Both heavy shedders.