Australian Shepherd vs Havanese: 2026 Breed Comparison
Quick Verdict
The Australian Shepherd is built for high-octane activity and thrives with a purpose, while the Havanese adapts well to moderate exercise routines. The Australian Shepherd suits active households; the Havanese works for most families.
| Trait | Australian Shepherd | Havanese |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Toy |
| Weight | 40–65 lbs | 7–13 lbs |
| Lifespan | 12–15 yrs | 14–16 yrs |
| Energy Level | Very High | Moderate |
| Shedding | High | Low |
| Trainability | Excellent | Very Good |
| Good with Kids | Very Good | Excellent |
| Barking | Moderate | Low–Moderate |
| Grooming | Moderate | High |
| Monthly Cost | $150–$250 | $100–$250 |
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 Havanese is a toy-sized dog weighing 7–13 lbs and living 14–16 yrs on average. Described as small but sturdy with a profuse, silky coat and a spring in its step, 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. The Havanese is the more compact option, making it ideal for apartments or smaller homes.
Temperament
The Australian Shepherd rates excellent for trainability and is very good with children. Barking tendency is moderate, making it manageable for neighbors.
The Havanese is very good to train and excellent around kids. Its barking level is low–moderate — generally acceptable overall.
First-time owners will find the Australian Shepherd easier to train and more eager to please. The Havanese 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 Havanese has an average lifespan of 14–16 yrs. Generally healthy. Watch for luxating patella, cataracts, and some heart conditions in older 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.
Havanese exercise needs: Moderate energy. 45–60 minutes of daily activity keeps the Havanese content — a mix of walks and play sessions works well.
Training: The Australian Shepherd is excellent to train. Reward-based training clicks quickly; Australian Shepherds thrive with consistency and new challenges. The Havanese 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.
Havanese: Shedding is low, and grooming is high. Daily brushing prevents mats. Many owners keep the coat in a shorter puppy trim for convenience.
If shedding is a dealbreaker, the Havanese 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.
Havanese monthly costs: $100–$250. Moderate costs. Grooming is the main recurring expense, especially for full-coat Havanese.
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 Havanese if:
- A a very small dog suits your home and lifestyle
- You can accommodate moderate 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 Havaneses better for families with kids?
The Australian Shepherd rates very good with children, while the Havanese 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 Havanese?
The Australian Shepherd has high shedding, compared to low for the Havanese. If minimizing dog hair around the home is important, the Havanese will be easier to manage.
How do the energy levels compare?
The Australian Shepherd is a very high energy dog; the Havanese is moderate. The Australian Shepherd needs more intensive daily exercise and mental stimulation than the Havanese — a significant lifestyle consideration.
What’s the lifespan difference between a Australian Shepherd and a Havanese?
Australian Shepherds typically live 12–15 yrs, while Havaneses average 14–16 yrs. Genetics, diet, exercise, and veterinary care all influence actual lifespan significantly.
Finding a Responsible Breeder or Rescue
If you decide on a puppy, prioritize breeders who health-test breeding stock for the conditions common in their breed, provide clear records and references, and are willing to take the dog back at any age if circumstances change. Avoid pet stores, online puppies without physical visit, and breeders who always have puppies available.
Rescue is another excellent path — both breeds have dedicated breed-specific rescues, and many purebred dogs enter shelters through no fault of their own.
*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.*