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 Australian Shepherds Information and Picture
Dog Breed Group
Herding Group
History and Origin
Australian Shepherd, Aussie is actually orginated from West North America instead of what its name suggests. Australia Shepherd is given the name because of the Basque sheepherders coming from Australia. Aussie's ancestry is also unclear; decades back, herders select dogs that are more suitable to herd in the terrain and climate of West North America instead of their appearance. Dogs that are bred are intelligent, hardy, more aggressive and versatile to work with many types of livestocks. They are more of a silent herder than a barking type.
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Temperament
Australian Shepherd is an intelligent dog of strong guarding and herding instincts. Aussie fits well in a family which gives them enough attention and exercise. Aussie though is a family dog and great with children, they have more tendencies to form bond with selected people in a family. With their eager to please and quick learning ability, Aussies are easy to train in housebreaking, obedience and etc. With their strong herding instinct and generally aggressive towards livestock, they may not be suitable with other small animals. Aussie temperament may vary depending on their line; some line maybe more laid back and not as active, more of a companion then a working dog.
Description (Appearance)
Aussie is a medium sized, well balanced and assertive looking dog. The outer coat is medium length with soft and dense undercoat. The color varies, the acceptable color according to standards are black, blue merle, red and red merle. Some white and tan markings on the chest, face, and legs are acceptable. AussiesŐ eyes are special with a variety of colors ranging from brown, green, amber, hazel to blue. Some of them even have bi-colored eyes. The tail is generally docked or naturally bobbed.
Size
Height: Dogs 20-23 inches. Bitches 18-21 inches at the withers
Weight: Dogs 50-65 pounds. Bitches 40-55 pounds
Living Conditions
Aussie is not recommended for owners who do not have a yard. Aussie can like indoor and stick to you like Velcro but is not suitable for apartment life. Aussie can cope with a variety of climate. Hot climate for a long period of time may not be suitable.
Exercise demand
Aussies are active and energetic dogs. They need a lot of exercise both physically and mentally. Daily long walk, with occasional Frisbee, flyball game would do just fine.
Health problems
Merle colored Aussie may prone to deaf or blindness. Cancer, skin allergies and some other hereditary eye defects may also happen to this breed.
Life Expectancy
About 11 - 13 years
Grooming
The coat is moderately long but easy to maintain and groom. Bathe only when necessary. Aussie is an average shedder.
Special Concern
Very active dog needs a lot of exercise. May herd small children due to their strong herding instinct if not train properly from young.
Recognition
ASCA, UKC, NKC, AKC, NZKC, CKC, APRI, ACR
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