Breed comparison
Australian Shepherd vs Siberian Husky
Side-by-side comparison to help you decide which breed fits your lifestyle.
Size
medium (40-65 lbs)
medium (35-60 lbs)
Life expectancy
12-15 yrs
12-14 yrs
Activity
very high
very high
Grooming
high
high
Coat
double
double
Temperament
smart, work-oriented, exuberant, loyal
outgoing, mischievous, loyal, independent
First-year cost
$3,305-$7,240
$3,305-$7,480
Ongoing annual
$2,510-$5,480
$2,510-$5,720
Health comparison
Shared concerns
hip dysplasiaprogressive retinal atrophy
Australian Shepherd specific
epilepsyCollie Eye AnomalyMDR1 drug sensitivitycataracts
Siberian Husky specific
juvenile cataractshypothyroidismzinc-responsive dermatosisfollicular dysplasia
Cost comparison
Australian Shepherd
$3,305-$7,240year one
Food: $1,450-$2,400
Vet: $660-$1,400
Grooming: $400-$1,200
Gear: $320-$460
Siberian Husky
$3,305-$7,480year one
Food: $1,450-$2,400
Vet: $660-$1,400
Grooming: $400-$1,200
Gear: $320-$460
Which breed is right for you?
Consider a Australian Shepherd if:
- •You're very active and want a dog that keeps up
- •You're willing to invest in regular grooming
- •You want a longer-lived breed (12-15 yrs)
- •You want a deeply loyal, bonded companion
Consider a Siberian Husky if:
- •You're very active and want a dog that keeps up
- •You're willing to invest in regular grooming
- •You want a longer-lived breed (12-14 yrs)
- •You want a deeply loyal, bonded companion
Common symptoms to watch
Full Australian Shepherd guide →
Food, supplements, gear, training
Full Siberian Husky guide →
Food, supplements, gear, training