| Breed
Group:
Herding |
| Weight:
male: 50-65; female: 40-55 lbs |
| Height:
male: 20-23; female: 18-21 inches |
| Color(s):
blue merle, black, red merle, or red, all with or without white markings and/or tan points |
| Coat:
The
Australian Shepherd has a striking and varied coat. It is of moderate
length, straight to wavy, and weather resistant. The under coat is shed
twice a year; with moderate shedding between these periods. The coat
comes in four accepted colors: black, blue merle, red, and red merle. A
variety of white and tan markings may appear on the face, chest, front,
and rear legs. |
| Overview:
The
exact origin of the Australian Shepherd is not known. The breed that is
cherished and loved today was developed exclusively in the United
States. The Australian Shepherd has an innate versatility that makes
them useful on ranches and farms as a herding dog, retriever, and
watchdog. They are typically referred to as "The Aussie". |
| Character:
The
Australian Shepherds most identifiable characteristic is the natural or
docked bobtail. Their eyes are one of this breeds most commented on
feature. Their eyes come in a variety of colors or color combinations
and include blue, amber, hazel, and all shades of brown. The Aussie is
a vigorous and athletic breed. |
| Temperament:
Australian
Shepherds are intelligent, delightful, and loyal. They are highly
energetic and thrive on being given something to do. The Aussie has a
high degree of intensity and a "no-quit" attitude. Their herding
instinct may be problematic or annoying to their family, as this breed
will often attempt to perform this task on everyone or anything that
moves. They are reserved and cautious with strangers until the Aussie
decides about them. They are confident and protective. Human
companionship is crucial to this breed. They get along well with
active, considerate older children. The Aussie is not typically
aggressive to other dogs. |
| Care:
The
Australian Shepherd requires minimal grooming. An occasional brushing
with a firm bristle brush will suffice. It is important to do more in
depth grooming when they are going through their seasonal shedding.
Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary. The Aussie is
susceptible to a myriad of health issues and concerns. Their merle
coloration carries a blind/deaf factor. Natural bobtails may have
serious spinal defects. They are also prone to epilepsy, hip dysplasia,
and cataracts. |
| Training:
Australian
Shepherds are easy to train. They benefit from early socialization and
very basic obedience. It is important that they know who the master is
or they will attempt to take control. The Australian Shepherd requires
firm, fair, consistent, and effective direction. Their high
intelligence and keen learning ability make repetitive training boring. |
| Activity:
The
Australian Shepherd requires an inordinate amount of exercise. A mere
walk is not sufficient. They thrive on running, herding, playing, and
all family activities. They are at their best when they are given a
great deal of social interaction and a task to do. Australian Shepherds
are not recommended for apartment dwelling. They are moderately active
indoors and require a non-sedentary owner and a large securely fenced
yard or safe open area. |
