Australian Shepherd
He Loves To Do A Job!
Background and Description
The Australian Shepherd, affectionately called the Aussie, was developed in America from dogs
that were brought here, by Basque sheepherders who migrated here in the 1800's.
It is
believed that the Pyrenean Shepherd dogs were crossed with collie type dogs. The most likely
candidates chosen for the Aussie's development were the Border Collie and the Smithfield
Collie. The result is undeniably a very handsome dog.
The breed quickly became very
popular, as well as an indispensable part of the work force on farms and ranches, where they
utilized their natural herding instincts, amazing stamina and remarkable agility.
In the modern world, their skills are very helpful in therapy situations, as assistance dogs
to the handicapped, in search and rescue, and also police work.
The Australian Shepherd is a symmetrical, solid and muscular dog of medium size with a length
slightly more than his height. His ears are triangular in shape, are set high and have a
forward break. Eyes are almond shaped and color is amber, blue or brown, sometimes with
flecks. The blue eyes, which are quite striking, are very light sensitive and are in fact
actually albino.
Appearance:
Height: 18-23 inches Weight: 35-70 lbs. Color variations: Blue merle, red merle, black,
liver, red, with possible markings tan markings evenly distributed.
Coat and Care:
The double coat is weather resistant, of medium length, moderately rough in texture, and can be straight to wavy.
Grooming and coat maintenance is easily handled with regular brushing and bathing only as
necessary. Also inspect the paws for any foreign matter or cuts. Shedding is about average.
Personality and Traits:
The Australian Shepherd is loyal, attentive, highly intelligent, and a very versatile dog. He makes a great family dog and likes to be involved in everything you do. The Aussie is eager to please and will housetrain easily. He does, however, need strong leadership or he can become too independent and dominant. He also can become loyal to one person, so it is desirable that everyone in the family play a part in his training.
Because of his natural herding instincts, he is a workaholic and enjoys being given jobs to do. He will learn quickly - fetch the paper, the slippers, protect the house, etc. He makes an excellent watchdog.
Activity Level:
This breed adapts well to family life providing he gets a considerable amount of exercise. He
will thrive with a family that spends a lot of time outdoors. He has a lot of stamina and
will do at least 2 hours of vigorous exercise a day.
Involvement in flyball or agility are
ideal activities to take advantage of his smartness, as well as a perfect outlet for his high
energy.
Dog Toys To Consider:
Click on any toy for more details.
Space Needs:
This breed does best with a securely-fenced yard of considerable size, as well as open space
where he can run freely. Although he is always active around the house, he loves to play
outside.
Children:
The Australian Shepherd does best with older children, or if he is raised with them from a puppy. As with
any breed of dog, activities between them should always be supervised by an adult.
Elderly:
Not recommended for a sedentary family - exercise needs would be too overwhelming.
Book Recommendations:
A Comprehensive and up-to-date reference guide to owning and caring for Aussie. Lots of full color photos.
Share Your Dog Pictures
A great way to share photos of your herding dog
as well as all your family photos.
Give it a "free" try - you'll be glad you did!
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