Australian Shepherd vs Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Which dog breed is right for you?

Australian Shepherd

Size
40–65 lbs, 18–23 in
Lifespan
12–15 years
Exercise
Very High
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Smart Exuberant Work-oriented Loyal

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Size
30–40 lbs, 17–19 in
Lifespan
12–14 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
High
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Happy Friendly Devoted Lively

About the Australian Shepherd

Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd was actually developed in the western United States during the 19th century, likely from Basque shepherd dogs that passed through Australia on their way to America. These versatile herding dogs stand 18–23 inches tall and weigh 40–65 pounds, with a medium-length double coat that comes in four recognized colors — black, blue merle, red, and red merle — often with striking copper and white markings. Their coats are weather-resistant and require regular brushing to manage moderate-to-heavy shedding.

Temperament & Personality

Australian Shepherds are brilliant, energetic, and deeply devoted to their families — they thrive when given a purpose and can become anxious or destructive without one. They are excellent with children, often naturally herding and watching over younger family members. Aussies are typically friendly with other dogs but can be reserved with strangers, and their intelligence makes them exceptionally responsive to training.

Pros

  • One of the most intelligent and trainable breeds — excels in agility, flyball, and herding
  • Loyal and affectionate family companion who bonds closely with all household members
  • Versatile working dog adaptable to ranch life, sport, or active suburban living
  • Beautiful, eye-catching coat with striking color variations including heterochromia

Cons

  • Demands extensive daily exercise and mental engagement — easily 1–2 hours minimum
  • Heavy shedding, especially during seasonal coat changes
  • May herd children, cats, and other pets by nipping at heels
  • Prone to epilepsy, hip dysplasia, and the MDR1 gene mutation affecting drug sensitivity

Aussies are incredible partners for active families — discover adoptable Australian Shepherds waiting for you on Puplister.

About the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier originated in Ireland over 200 years ago as an all-purpose farm dog — herding livestock, guarding property, and dispatching vermin, earning it the nickname "the poor man's wolfhound." These medium-sized dogs stand 17 to 19 inches tall and weigh 30 to 40 pounds, with a sturdy, compact build beneath their distinctive coat. Their single-layer, silky, wavy coat matures from a dark puppy color to its signature warm wheaten gold by about two years of age — and unlike most terriers, it is soft rather than wiry.

Temperament & Personality

Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are exuberant, affectionate, and joyful — known for their characteristic "Wheaten greeting" where they enthusiastically jump up to lick faces, which can be endearing or problematic depending on the recipient. They are deeply devoted to their families, excellent with children, and more tolerant of other dogs than many terrier breeds. Their happy, bouncy energy remains well into adulthood, and they approach life with an infectious enthusiasm that brightens any household.

Pros

  • Single coat sheds minimally — more suitable for allergy-sensitive households
  • Friendly and exuberant — loves people and gets along with children and other dogs
  • Less aggressive and territorial than many other terrier breeds
  • Versatile and athletic — enjoys agility, hiking, and active family life

Cons

  • Coat requires daily brushing and regular professional grooming to prevent matting
  • Prone to protein-losing nephropathy and protein-losing enteropathy — serious breed-specific conditions
  • Jumping and exuberant greeting behavior can be difficult to manage
  • Can be stubborn during training and requires patient, consistent methods

The Wheaten Terrier's joyful spirit and soft golden coat are hard to resist — discover available Wheatens on Puplister.

Available for Adoption

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Australian Shepherd and a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier?
The Australian Shepherd is 40–65 lbs, 18–23 in sized while the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is 30–40 lbs, 17–19 in sized. They differ in size (40–65 lbs, 18–23 in vs 30–40 lbs, 17–19 in), lifespan (12–15 years vs 12–14 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Australian Shepherd or Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier?
Australian Shepherd is generally good with kids. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Australian Shepherd or Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier?
The Australian Shepherd has a lifespan of 12–15 years while the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has a lifespan of 12–14 years.

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