Male vs. Female Australian Shepherds: Key Differences (With Pictures)

The Australian Shepherd is a popular herding breed. Despite the name, these dogs aren’t from Australia but originate in the U.S. To meet an Aussie is to immediately love one, but these dogs aren’t for the faint of heart. Once used only as a working dog (similar to Border Collies or Heelers), the breed has evolved into a lovable pet.

Australian Shepherds are high-energy, attention-demanding pups, but they’re affectionate, and their loyalty knows no bounds. If you’re wondering if there are sex differences in this breed, the answer is yes, and they extend far beyond physical differences. These dogs have different personality traits too.

It’s possible that one sex might be a better fit for your family than the other, so let’s explore the differences between male and female Australian Shepherds.

Visual Differences

At a Glance

Australian Shepherds 101

The Australian Shepherd is a smart, exuberant working breed. These dogs are bred for herding and remain popular stock dogs for herding sheep and cattle. As such, Australian Shepherd genetics focused on personality traits rather than looks. They can have several different colors and coat varieties, but all of them have an irresistible impulse to herd.

This herding instinct can frustrate Aussie owners if it’s not properly harnessed. These dogs will herd birds, children, cars, and anything else that moves. This often makes them too much for sedentary pet owners. Australian Shepherds require an active lifestyle.

The intelligence of Australian Shepherds means that what you don’t teach them, they will learn on their own and often not in a way that you like. They are more than capable of “training their owners” rather than the other way around.

Australian Shepherds aren’t for everyone, but if you’re looking for an active, intelligent, trainable, and affectionate partner, you can’t find a better one.

Male Australian Shepherd Overview

Personality / Character

Male Aussies are affectionate and loyal to their owners. They are likely to stick close to their owner’s side all day long rather than explore on their own. Males are also noisy. Since they are so playful, even adult Australian Shepherds tend to act like puppies; they are just easier to handle.

It’s not uncommon to see male Australian Shepherds fight over territory. It’s highly recommended that if you get two Aussies, you don’t get two of the same sex. Males will get along much better with a female companion than another male.

Training

Males tend to be easier to train than females of this breed. They are highly food motivated, which makes it easy to train with treats or food as a motivator.

Male Aussies are famous for getting distracted during training sessions. They are highly intelligent dogs but have short attention spans. Their constant desire to run and play sometimes interferes with their learning. However, these dogs are ultimately eager to learn and want to please their humans.

Health & Care

Male Australian Shepherds have a lifespan of 13 to 15 years, but this can vary significantly. Generally, they’re healthy dogs. Neutering can prevent several sex-specific health problems, like prostatic hyperplasia and testicular cancer.

Breeding

Neutering your male Australian Shepherd is recommended to prevent reproduction. It has also been shown to reduce behavioral problems associated with male hormones. Neutering has historically been associated with reducing aggression in male dogs; however, there is current research that suggests that this is only effective if neutering is done after puberty.

The usual recommendation is to neuter your dog around 6 months of age. If you have concerns about the effects of neutering or the best time to complete the surgery, talk to your veterinarian.

Males that are left unaltered are prone to engaging in destructive and sometimes dangerous behavior in an effort to find a mate. This can involve roaming behavior and destroying furniture out of frustration.

Female Australian Shepherd Overview

Personality / Character

Female Aussies are more sensitive and relaxed than male Aussies. Females mature earlier, making them easier to train from a younger age. Female Australian Shepherds tend to keep a strict daily schedule.

Training

Female dogs are less food motivated than male dogs. This doesn’t mean they’re hard to train, but you will have to find a motivator beyond food. Aussies are active dogs that love affection. This can often be as simple as throwing a ball for them or giving them a good scratch.

While it’s harder to convince females to participate, Aussies perform well during training sessions once they are sufficiently motivated. Girls concentrate better than boys and aren’t as distracted by a desire to play. Just like their male counterparts, female Aussies are eager to please.

Health & Care

Female Australian Shepherds can suffer from the same conditions as male Australian Shepherds and have a similar lifespan, ranging between 13 and 15 years. Spaying your female Aussie can significantly reduce the chance of her suffering from several health conditions. Spayed females have a lower chance of suffering from mammary tumors and uterine infections.

Breeding

As with most dog breeds, female Australian Shepherds reach sexual maturity around 6 months of age. They will experience an estrus cycle twice per year. During this time, they will produce secretions to attract male dogs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are Male or Female Australian Shepherds More Affectionate?

Male Australian Shepherds are more affectionate than the female dogs, which are more independent and less demanding of the owner’s attention.

How Do I Choose an Australian Shepherd Puppy?

Before purchasing an Australian Shepherd puppy, it’s important to visit the breeding facility. Make sure the puppy’s parents are active and healthy and possess the qualities that you desire in your pup. Puppies should be kept in a clean kennel space. It is a good idea to obtain health and genetic information from the breeder before taking your pup home to ensure that they don’t have any inherited health conditions.

Are Australian Shepherds Easy to Housebreak?

Australian Shepherds are typically house trained easily. The key is consistency, but these dogs are sensitive and eager to please. Once you have established where it is acceptable to go potty, these dogs take to it quickly in an effort to not disappoint their owners.

Do Aussies Ever Calm Down?

Most Aussies calm down a small amount by the age 2. Basically, they are easier to handle because their training is better established and they are more obedient.

That said, Australian Shepherds are known for being perpetual puppies, and many owners don’t notice a decrease in their energy levels until well into seniority.

Which Gender Is Right for You?

There are major personality differences between male and female Australian Shepherds. Both sexes are lovable, easy-to-train dogs that make good companions. Which one is right for you depends on your personal preference. Males will be your constant companion and loyal to a fault. Females are slightly more demanding and more independent. The question of which Aussie is best is something that only you can answer.

Feature Image Credit: (L) novifoto, Shutterstock | (R) Medenka Nera, Shutterstock