Dogo Sardesco vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison

Dogo Sardesco vs Australian Kelpie - Breed ComparisonDogo Sardesco is originated from Italy but Australian Kelpie is originated from Australia. Dogo Sardesco may grow 17 cm / 7 inches higher than Australian Kelpie. Dogo Sardesco may weigh 25 kg / 56 pounds more than Australian Kelpie. Dogo Sardesco may live 3 years less than Australian Kelpie. Both Dogo Sardesco and Australian Kelpie has almost same litter size. Dogo Sardesco requires Low maintenance. But Australian Kelpie requires Moderate maintenance

History

dogo sardesco - historyThis is an ancient working dog breed which hails from the Italian island of Sardinia. When you do research, you find that no one is sure as to this dogs exact origin, and there are a number of theories as to how the dog developed.

Regardless of how the Dogo Sardesco came about, it is a valued companion of farmers in Sardinia, being appreciated for its protective nature.

The dog is a kind of Molosser or Mastiff dog. In the past the dog has been used as a working and hunting dog, and today he is a popular dog in mainland Italy. He is also known as Sardinian Mastiff, Sardinian Molosser and Dogo Sardo.

The Dogo Sardesco isn’t recognized today by international kennel clubs, and breeders on the island of Sardinia have done nothing to form a breed club for the dog.

australian kelpie - historyThe energetic Kelpie came into being around 1870, with this working dog breed having a role to play with the herding of sheep in the harsh Australian outback.The sheep and wool industry in Australia has always been big business, and Australian ranchers were looking for a tough dog that could cope with sheep but also cope with the harsh environment.

These are adaptable dogs too and their ancestors include the Coley or Collie, a British herding-type dog, the English- and the Australian Shepherd and the Dingo. In fact it is believed that up to 4% of their genes comes from the Dingo. These adaptable dogs were also brought to North America where they quickly adapted to the different climate and different livestock.

The Australian Kelpie isn’t your regular pet as they are essentially an outdoor, working dog. They are recognized today by the United Kennel Club and registered by the North American Australian Kelpie Registry.

Description

dogo sardesco puppy - descriptionThe dog Sardesco is a medium to large sized dog generally measuring 56 to 68 cm at the withers and weighing roughly 30 to 45 kg.

Because the dog isn’t bred to specific standards, it varies in appearance, but it is a powerful looking dog, being lean and athletic. The dog’s tail is traditionally docked, but with tail docking being frowned upon, the tail is left long and the dog loses its distinctive look.

The head of the dog is large and the ears are also traditionally cropped to be very short. Left naturally, the ears fold down closely to the sides of the head.The eyes are small and amber colored. The coat is short and smooth, but thick, and while it comes in many colors, the more regular color is red, brown, black, grey or brindle.

Temperament:

The Dogo Sardesco becomes a loyal family pet, more so when he has been trained and socialized. Although he is a devoted and affectionate dog, forming particularly strong bonds with his human family, he isn’t recommended for homes where there are young children.

He also doesn’t take too kindly to other pets in the home. This is because they are a strong-willed, dominant breed and might therefore not be a good choice for first-time dog owners.

Because Sardinian breeders have focused on developing an aggressive dog, he has become a dog suspicious of- and aloof with strangers. He is stubborn and self-willed, and to make him more obedient and amicable, he will require training and socialization. He is an alert, intelligent dog and this makes him an excellent watch dog.

The Sardinian Mastiff is an active dog too and won’t do well in a home where the people aren’t interested in exercise. He is the kind of dog that will need to be taken with you on walks, and he will love to spend time running alongside you when you go running or cycling.

He won’t adapt too well to life in the city, particularly when there is just a tiny garden.

The Coat

australian kelpie puppy - descriptionThe Kelpie is a medium-sized dog with a coat that comes in a number of colours – black, chocolate, fawn, red, blue, tan, white and gold. . The nose colour blends in with the dog’s coat colour and can be black, brownish and even pinkish.

A Sharp, Intelligent Look

The Kelpie has a medium-length tail which is low-set. The ears are pricked, giving the dog an intelligent, alert appearance. The dog’s head is also narrow and long, and his eyes are bright and inquisitive.

Lithe and Athletic

The Australian Kelpie has an athletic appearance, with a body which is longer than their height, similar to that of a German Shepherd. Because the Australian Kelpie is such an energetic, active breed, he’ll need plenty of ‘jobs to do’, lots of ball games and other exercise to keep him free from boredom and to ensure he maintains his lithe, lean, muscular limbs.

Characteristics

dogo sardesco dog - characteristicsThe Dogo Sardesco has always performed his role as a working dog well, and this is a reliable watch dog as well as the dog takes his job of guarding his human family seriously.

With his aggressive temperament, he has appeared on the list of banned breeds, and this is why he isn’t an ideal choice for homes where there are small children, as some small children haven’t been taught how to treat a dog with respect.

However, when properly trained and socialized he becomes an excellent companion dog. He has an intimidating look about him, but when he is with his human family, another side comes out and he is affectionate, loving and protective.

Friend of Children

australian kelpie dog - characteristicsThe Australian Kelpie is an active, busy, intelligent, loving breed who is highly protective of his human family. He gets on well with children and other pets in the home but you’ll want him trained if you want him to be gentle around children and smaller pets. He does tend to gravitate towards one particular family member as his ‘favourite’ though.

He Must be Busy

Your Kelpie won't do well in an apartment as he is a working dog who wants plenty of place to run and play. If he is bored, it manifests itself with constant barking. Make sure to provide a stimulating, active lifestyle for your Australian Kelpie, provide him with everything a dog needs and you’ll be rewarded with a devoted and loyal companion.

Health Problems

dogo sardesco puppies - health problemsThe Dogo Sardesco is a relatively healthy breed who is unlikely to suffer with ailments common to dogs, but nonetheless there are some diseases or conditions that you might want to be aware of with your dog.

Skeletal and visual problems can occur in this breed. Both hip- and elbow dysplasia are common orthopedic disorders in dogs and they can cause a lot of pain and discomfort and even cause lifelong disability.

Genes and environmental factors play a part in your dog developing this disease.If he has been diagnosed as having hip or elbow dysplasia, get your dog to the vet as there are treatments which can at least make your pet a lot more comfortable.

Remember that feeding your puppy Dogo Sardesco too much food which is particularly high in calories can mean him growing too fast, and this can contribute to this hip dysplasia problem.

A Healthy Breed

australian kelpie puppies - health problemsYour Australian Kelpie is a hardy breed and you won’t find many health problems with him. Yes, every dog is susceptible to illnesses which are common with all dog breeds, and these are illnesses such as hip dysplasia and cryptorchidism.

You will need to check your Kelpie out for eye disease such as PRA or Progressive Retinal Atrophy, a group of genetic diseases which are found in some breeds of dogs. This can lead to cataracts and blindness.

Lifestyle and Environment Impact Health

Health problems in your Australian Kelpie can certainly be partially prevented by the way you feed your dog and by the environment you provide him with. Every dog has the potential to develop genetic health problems, but as we’ve said, the Kelpie is a generally healthy breed.

Always find a reputable breeder whose focus is on breeding healthy dogs and who can provide certification that the parents of the dog are clear of defects and are in tip-top condition for breeding.

Puppy Vaccinations

Along with quality food and fresh water, getting your puppy vaccinated is hugely important. Australian Kelpie puppy shots will protect your new 4-legged family member from the likes of distemper, parvovirus and hepatitis. Your puppy will also need additional booster vaccinations after his first shots which start at around 8 weeks of age.

Caring The Pet

dogo sardesco dogs - caringDog owners who don’t like the idea of spending too much money on grooming will appreciate that the Dogo Sardesco is a very low maintenance breed, and that a good brushing twice a week will keep the dog’s coat shiny and healthy.

As with all other dogs, he will need to have his teeth brushed to remove plaque build up. Not only does plaque lead to dental disease, but bad teeth can lead to other health issues too.

Nail clipping will also be necessary if your pet doesn’t wear the nails down naturally from getting to run on a hard surface from time to time.

Grooming

australian kelpie dogs - caringAustralian Kelpies are low maintenance and their coat is easy to groom and maintain. You want to give him a good brush twice a week to get rid of loose hair. Australian Kelpies are moderate shedders.

Feeding your Kelpie

It is important to get your puppy off on the right foot to avoid health problems later on. Homemade dog food which includes chicken, rice and vegetables is always the best food for your dog. If you can't prepared your own meals for your Kelpie, top grade commercial dog food brands are recommended.

When looking at dog foods, remember that your Kelpie is a working dog – a naturally active breed and you’ll need to look at dog food which has been specially formulated for active dogs. Every dog will need raw meat in their diet if you want to avoid a dog with an itchy, flaky skin, a dog with poor energy levels and a dog that has no resistance to infection.

Training

Every owner who cares for their dog will provide him with socialization and training. The Australian Kelpie is an intelligent breed who responds well to training.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Working dog
Origin:
Italy
Australia
Height Male:
56 - 68 cm
22 - 27 inches
46 - 51 cm
18 - 21 inches
Height Female:
56 - 68 cm
22 - 27 inches
43 - 48 cm
16 - 19 inches
Weight Male:
30 - 45 kg
66 - 100 pounds
14 - 20 kg
30 - 45 pounds
Weight Female:
30 - 45 kg
66 - 100 pounds
12 - 20 kg
26 - 45 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 8
4 - 7
Size:
Large dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Dogo Sardo, Sardinian Mastiff, Sardinian Molosser
Kelpie, Barb
Colors Available:
black, brown, grey or brindle , Red
Many Colours, from solids to bi-colours - tan, fawn, blue, red, black, chocolate
Coat:
Short, smooth, dense
short and dense
Shedding:
Minimal
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
No
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Samoyed vs Dogo Sardesco - Breed Comparison
  2. Great Pyrenees vs Dogo Sardesco - Breed Comparison
  3. Presa Canario vs Dogo Sardesco - Breed Comparison
  4. Labrador Husky vs Dogo Sardesco - Breed Comparison
  5. Giant Schnauzer vs Dogo Sardesco - Breed Comparison
  6. Goldador vs Dogo Sardesco - Breed Comparison
  7. Dogo Sardesco vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  8. Dogo Sardesco vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  9. Dogo Sardesco vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  10. Dogo Sardesco vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  11. Dogo Sardesco vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  12. Dogo Sardesco vs Alaskan Malamute - Breed Comparison
  13. Dogo Sardesco vs Bullmastiff - Breed Comparison
  14. Dogo Sardesco vs Boerboel - Breed Comparison
  15. Dogo Sardesco vs Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  16. Dogo Sardesco vs Argentine Dogo - Breed Comparison
  17. Dogo Sardesco vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  18. Dogo Sardesco vs Belgian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  19. Dogo Sardesco vs Bandog - Breed Comparison
  20. Dogo Sardesco vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison
  21. Dogo Sardesco vs Dogo Cubano - Breed Comparison
  22. Dogo Sardesco vs Beauceron - Breed Comparison
  23. Dogo Sardesco vs Central Asian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  24. Dogo Sardesco vs Black Russian Terrier - Breed Comparison
  25. Dogo Sardesco vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  26. American Bulldog vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  27. Border Collie vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  28. Sakhalin Husky vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  29. Alaskan Husky vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  30. Catahoula Leopard vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  31. German Pinscher vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  32. Portuguese Water Dog vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  33. Puli vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  34. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  35. Borador vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  36. German Spaniel vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  37. Canadian Eskimo Dog vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  38. McNab vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  39. Porcelaine vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  40. Finnish Lapphund vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  41. Berger Blanc Suisse vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  42. Griffon Nivernais vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  43. Hokkaido vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  44. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  45. Pumi vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  46. Australian Kelpie vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  47. Griffon Fauve de Bretagne vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  48. Basque Shepherd vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  49. Istrian Sheepdog vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  50. Jamthund vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds