Australian Shepherd vs Brittany: 2026 Breed Comparison
Quick Verdict
Both the Australian Shepherd and Brittany make wonderful companions, but they suit very different lifestyles. The Australian Shepherd tends toward very high energy and excellent trainability, while the Brittany offers high energy with very good trainability. Your choice should reflect your activity level and experience.
| Trait | Australian Shepherd | Brittany |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Weight | 40–65 lbs | 30–40 lbs |
| Lifespan | 12–15 yrs | 12–14 yrs |
| Energy Level | Very High | High |
| Shedding | High | Moderate |
| Trainability | Excellent | Very Good |
| Good with Kids | Very Good | Excellent |
| Barking | Moderate | Moderate |
| Grooming | Moderate | Easy |
| Monthly Cost | $150–$250 | $100–$200 |
Size & Appearance
The Australian Shepherd is a medium-sized breed, typically weighing 40–65 lbs with a lifespan of 12–15 yrs. Its build is athletic and medium-sized with a striking merle coat and often blue eyes.
The Brittany is a medium-sized dog weighing 30–40 lbs and living 12–14 yrs on average. Described as compact, leggy, and athletic with an orange-and-white or liver-and-white coat, it presents a distinctive profile that’s immediately recognizable.
If size matters for your living situation — apartment versus house with a yard — this comparison is decisive. Both are similarly sized, so space requirements are roughly comparable.
Temperament
The Australian Shepherd rates excellent for trainability and is very good with children. Barking tendency is moderate, making it manageable for neighbors.
The Brittany is very good to train and excellent around kids. Its barking level is moderate — manageable overall.
First-time owners will find the Australian Shepherd easier to train and more eager to please. The Brittany requires a more experienced hand and consistent boundaries.
Health & Lifespan
The Australian Shepherd typically lives 12–15 yrs. Drug sensitivity (MDR1 gene), epilepsy, hip dysplasia, and eye conditions (collie eye anomaly) are key concerns.
The Brittany has an average lifespan of 12–14 yrs. Relatively healthy. Hip dysplasia and epilepsy can occur. Ear infections are common in field dogs.
Veterinary costs vary by breed. Larger dogs and brachycephalic breeds often incur higher lifetime expenses. Always buy from health-tested breeders or adopt from a reputable rescue.
Exercise & Training
Australian Shepherd exercise needs: Very High energy. The Australian Shepherd needs 90+ minutes of vigorous daily activity plus mental challenges like puzzle feeders, nose work, or agility.
Brittany exercise needs: High energy. Plan on 60–90 minutes of daily exercise for the Brittany — long walks, fetch, swimming, or running are ideal.
Training: The Australian Shepherd is excellent to train. Reward-based training clicks quickly; Australian Shepherds thrive with consistency and new challenges. The Brittany is very good to train. Positive reinforcement works best; early socialization makes a significant difference.
Grooming
Australian Shepherd: Shedding is high, and grooming requirements are moderate. Brush 2–3 times weekly. During shedding season, daily brushing prevents mats in the dense double coat.
Brittany: Shedding is moderate, and grooming is easy. Brush weekly to remove debris from the flat-lying coat and check ears after field work.
If shedding is a dealbreaker, the Brittany will be the easier coat to live with. The Australian Shepherd leaves noticeably more hair around the home.
Cost
Australian Shepherd monthly costs: $150–$250. Moderate costs overall. Mental stimulation activities (agility, herding classes) are a worthwhile investment.
Brittany monthly costs: $100–$200. One of the more affordable sporting breeds. Their hardy constitution keeps vet costs manageable.
Puppy prices also vary significantly — popular or trendy breeds can command $2,000–$5,000+ from reputable breeders. Consider adoption as an alternative; both breeds have dedicated rescue organizations.
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Which Is Right for You?
Choose the Australian Shepherd if:
- You want a medium-sized and a very active lifestyle
- excellent trainability fits your experience level
- The Australian Shepherd’s temperament and appearance match your vision of the ideal dog
Choose the Brittany if:
- A a medium-sized dog suits your home and lifestyle
- You can accommodate high energy levels daily
- very good trainability works for your household
Either could work if you’re flexible on size and energy, and prioritize temperament and compatibility over specific breed traits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Australian Shepherds or Brittanys better for families with kids?
The Australian Shepherd rates very good with children, while the Brittany is excellent around kids. Both can thrive in family settings with proper socialization — early introductions and supervision with young children are always important regardless of breed.
Which breed sheds more — the Australian Shepherd or the Brittany?
The Australian Shepherd has high shedding, compared to moderate for the Brittany. If minimizing dog hair around the home is important, the Brittany will be easier to manage.
How do the energy levels compare?
The Australian Shepherd is a very high energy dog; the Brittany is high. The Australian Shepherd needs more intensive daily exercise and mental stimulation than the Brittany — a significant lifestyle consideration.
What’s the lifespan difference between a Australian Shepherd and a Brittany?
Australian Shepherds typically live 12–15 yrs, while Brittanys average 12–14 yrs. Genetics, diet, exercise, and veterinary care all influence actual lifespan significantly.
Lifestyle Fit
Beyond the basic stats, lifestyle compatibility is the most important factor in breed selection. Consider your living situation (apartment vs. house with yard), daily schedule, activity level, and experience with dogs. A mismatch between breed needs and owner lifestyle is the leading reason dogs end up in rescues.
Both breeds covered here can be wonderful companions in the right home. Do additional research specific to your circumstances, and if possible, spend time with each breed before making your decision.
*Information on this page reflects general breed averages and should not replace advice from a licensed veterinarian or certified dog trainer. Individual dogs vary. GetPetPros.com participates in affiliate programs and may earn commissions from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.*