Akbash Dog vs Australian Shepherd

Side-by-side comparison — size, temperament, traits, costs, and health

Akbash Dog
Category
Australian Shepherd

📏 Physical Stats

90 - 120
Weight (lbs)
35 - 65
28 - 34
Height (inches)
18 - 23
10 - 12 years
Life Expectancy
12 - 16 years
Working
Breed Group
Herding
Turkey
Origin
United States
Sheep guarding
Bred For
Sheep herding

⚡ Temperament & Traits

Scores are 1–5 from breed data. Higher = more of that trait. Barking: lower is quieter.

4/5
Energy Level
5/5
Better
5/5
Trainability
5/5
3/5
Good with Children
5/5
Better
4/5
Good with Other Dogs
5/5
Better
4/5
Grooming Needs
4/5

💰 Cost of Ownership

Based on breed-specific cost data at a moderate care level — quality food, routine vet, occasional grooming, standard insurance. Actual costs vary by location and provider.

Annual Cost
$3,596
Akbash Dog
vs
Annual Cost
$2,511
Australian Shepherd
Akbash Dog
Expense
Australian Shepherd
$3,596
Annual Cost
$2,511
Lower ✓
$4,316
First Year
$3,231
Lower ✓
$40,276
Lifetime Total
$35,874
Lower ✓
$1,116
Food (annual)
$552
Lower ✓
$735
Vet Care (annual)
$630
Lower ✓
$640
Grooming (annual)
$440
Lower ✓
$1,080
Insurance (annual)
$864
Lower ✓
$90
Insurance (monthly)
$72
Lower ✓

Over their lifetimes, a Australian Shepherd (~14 yrs) costs approximately $4,402 less than a Akbash Dog (~11 yrs) in total.

🏥 Health Considerations

Health conditions listed are common concerns for these breeds or breed groups. Not every dog will develop these conditions. Regular vet check-ups are the best prevention.

🐾 Temperament

Akbash Dog

Loyal, Independent, Intelligent, Brave

Australian Shepherd

Good-natured, Affectionate, Intelligent, Active, Protective, Brave, Curious, Friendly, Gentle, Loyal, Playful