For an energetic companion with an impressive level of intelligence and devotion, the Australian shepherd will be happy to fill the role. This breed thrives on being physically and mentally occupied at all times, and it is willing and able to learn a versatile range of tasks. The Australian shepherd has increased in popularity and is welcomed into families that are seeking a loyal protector and loving companion. Despite the name, the Australian shepherd did not originally hail from Australia. Shepherds utilized the herding dogs first in the Pyrenees Mountains of the Basque region of France and Spain. During the 1800s, the shepherds migrated with their dogs to Australia. It was after a subsequent journey to America from Australia that the canine was developed into the dog that we know and love today as the Australian shepherd. The breed’s popularity soared in western culture, starring on the silver screen, in television shows and in rodeo spectacles. The dog was utilized by ranchers to herd livestock and perform various farming tasks, and the Australian shepherd has since earned its rightful place as a devoted household friend and family member.
The Australian Shepherd is a medium-sized, muscular and agile dog breed. Aussies have erect, triangular ears and oval eyes which often come in two colors. They have a medium-length double coat, which is wavy or straight. Aussies also have feathering on the backs of their legs and a thick coat around their necks, which can appear like a mane. To prevent shedding and mats from forming, they need to be brushed regularly. The sturdy Australian shepherd measures 18 to 23 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs 35 to 65 pounds. The breed’s muscular physique is built for stamina. The Australian shepherd is clad in a thick coat of medium length, which may be blue merle, red merle, black or red. Tan points and white markings cover the paws and chest. Made up of hairs that may be straight or wavy, the coat forms a ruff around the dog’s shoulders and feathery wisps on the backsides of the legs. The breed’s eagerness and intelligence are conveyed through blue, amber or brown eyes. An Australian shepherd’s tail may be naturally bobbed or docked to four inches in length.
Personality
Aussies are very sociable, loyal dogs and extremely affectionate towards their owners. Human contact is vital for this breed. It has great endurance levels and is alert, independent and smart. It needs ample daily exercise and thrives with physical and mental challenges. If it doesn’t get the exercise it needs, it becomes frustrated and bored. They are great dogs for an active family, but may try to herd small children or pets. Aussies are protective and may be aggressive towards strangers. Australian shepherds are dedicated workers, taking their herding and guarding instincts seriously. They closely shadow their owners, and their strong herding instincts prompt them to herd small children and other pets. Although devoted to pleasing their families, Australian shepherds are reserved with strangers. Confident, courageous and not shy about barking, the breed makes an excellent watchdog. Australian shepherds are highly intelligent, and they are eager to please their owners. They can be trained to carry out various tasks. Their high energy level and strong intellect requires consistent and daily physical and mental challenges to focus on.
Breed Characteristics
| Type: | Pure |
| Family: | Herders |
| Function: | Working |
| Origin: | United States |
| Preferred Climate: | Any Climate |
| Group: | Herding |
| Life Span: | 12-15 Years |
| Nicknames: | Aussie, Aussie shepherd |
| Hypoallergenic: | No |
Australian Shepherd Build Information
The Australian Shepherd is a medium-sized, muscular and agile dog breed. Aussies have erect, triangular ears and oval eyes which often come in two colors. They have a medium-length double coat, which is wavy or straight. Aussies also have feathering on the backs of their legs and a thick coat around their necks, which can appear like a mane. To prevent shedding and mats from forming, they need to be brushed regularly. The sturdy Australian shepherd measures 18 to 23 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs 35 to 65 pounds. The breed’s muscular physique is built for stamina. The Australian shepherd is clad in a thick coat of medium length, which may be blue merle, red merle, black or red. Tan points and white markings cover the paws and chest. Made up of hairs that may be straight or wavy, the coat forms a ruff around the dog’s shoulders and feathery wisps on the backsides of the legs. The breed’s eagerness and intelligence are conveyed through blue, amber or brown eyes. An Australian shepherd’s tail may be naturally bobbed or docked to four inches in length.
| Size: | Medium |
| Length (Male): | 19-25 in. |
| Length (Female): | 18-20 in. |
| Weight: | 41 – 65 lbs |
| Litter Size: | 5 – 10 Puppies |
| Tail Dock or Crop: | Docked |
Behaviour and Personality
Aussies are very sociable, loyal dogs and extremely affectionate towards their owners. Human contact is vital for this breed. It has great endurance levels and is alert, independent and smart. It needs ample daily exercise and thrives with physical and mental challenges. If it doesn’t get the exercise it needs, it becomes frustrated and bored. They are great dogs for an active family, but may try to herd small children or pets. Aussies are protective and may be aggressive towards strangers. Australian shepherds are dedicated workers, taking their herding and guarding instincts seriously. They closely shadow their owners, and their strong herding instincts prompt them to herd small children and other pets. Although devoted to pleasing their families, Australian shepherds are reserved with strangers. Confident, courageous and not shy about barking, the breed makes an excellent watchdog. Australian shepherds are highly intelligent, and they are eager to please their owners. They can be trained to carry out various tasks. Their high energy level and strong intellect requires consistent and daily physical and mental challenges to focus on.
| Activity Level: | Very Active |
| Affection Level: | Very Affectionate |
| Aggressiveness Level: | Easy |
| Barking: | Quiet |
| Dominating or Submissive?: | None |
| Energy Level: | Very Active |
| Good to Other Pets: | Friendly |
| Guardian Skills: | Yes |
| Independant: | Yes |
| Kid Friendliness: | Very Friendly |
Appearance
An Australian shepherd’s coat should be brushed every other day to remove dead hair and prevent matting. Inspect the ears weekly, and keep them clean to prevent infections. Brushing the teeth as part of the grooming routine will help to maintain oral and overall health.
| Colors: | Black, Black & White, Blue Merle, Red |
| Shedding: | Moderate |
| Grooming: | Medium Maintenance |
| Coat Type: | Feathered |
Australian Shepherd Common Health Conditions
Australian shepherds live an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Hip dysplasia is one of the common genetic concerns that can afflict the breed. Australian shepherds also have an increased risk for drug sensitivities, epilepsy, hypothyroidism and von Willebrand’s disease. The breed is also prone to various eye problems, including progressive retinal atrophy, collie eye anomaly and cataracts.
Australian Shepherd Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
Get a Free Pet Insurance Quote
Breed Talents and Facts
The Australian shepherd originated in the Basque region along the borders of France and Spain. The Australian shepherd is also called an Aussie or an Aussie shepherd. The Australian shepherd is highly intelligent, focused and devoted to its family members. The Australian shepherd stands 18 to 23 inches tall and weighs 35 to 65 pounds. Australian shepherds have a high energy level. Australian shepherds require moderate grooming. The average lifespan for an Australian shepherd is 12 to 15 years.
| Training: | Very easy to train |
| Hunting Companion: | No |
| Jolly for Jogging: | Yes |
| Sighting Capabilities: | No |
| Ideal for Tracking: | No |
| Retrieving Skills: | Yes |
| Pointing Breed: | No |
| Herding Skills: | Yes |
| Dutiful Watchdog: | Yes |
| Security Guard Capable: | Yes |
| Police Performer: | Yes |
| Wet Water rescues: | No |
| Assist Disable Owners: | No |
| Dog Sledding: | No |
| Able to Perform Dog Carting: | No |
| Agile/Zippy: | Yes |
| Fun with Lure Coursing: | No |
| Obedient: | Yes |
| Possible Schutzhund Work: | No |
| Trainable for Tricks: | Yes |
