Read About Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherd's are loyal and playful dogs. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Australian Shepherd Summary:

1. Size:

   Large Dog Breed

2. Weight:

   40-65 lbs

3. Coat:

   Medium Length

4. Shedding:

   Medium Shedding

5. Temperament:

   Gentle

6. Obedience:

   Good Obedience

7. Ease of Training:

   Easy to Train

8. Way with Children:

   Excellent with children

Australian Shepherd - Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Herding;1991

2. Size & Weight:

   18-23 inches tall, 40-65 lbs

3. Coat:

   Australian Shepherd's have a strait to wavy coat that is feathered on the back of their forelegs.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   Their head is clean cut and strong. The muzzle is average length and rounded at the top. The ears are triangular shaped and sit high on the head.

5. Body:

   While the Australian Shepherd's don't have a broad chest, it is very deep with the lowest point at the elbow. Their shoulders are long, flat and laid back.

6. Colors:

   According to the AKC the color should be blue merle, black, or red merle. Markings are acceptable in white and points in tan or copper.

7. Life Expectancy:

   12-15 yrs.

8. Popularity:

   In a 2005 popularity ranking by the AKC they were ranked 34 out of 154 breeds.

9. Habitat:

   The Australian Shepherd is not recommended for apartment life. They are herding dogs and are not suited to not being able to run and exercise. They do best with a large yard.

Australian Shepherd - Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   United States

2. Historical Information:

   Unlike their name implies, these dogs are not from Australia. They were bred entirely in the United States as herders on ranches. Their name possibly comes from one of their ancestors which were Spanish dogs that traveled on ships from Spain that exported sheep to Australia and the United States.

Australian Shepherd - Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Australian Shepherd's are laid back, playful and affectionate.

2. Behavior:

   They are aggressive with livestock but gentle with humans.

3. Habits:

   Australian Shepherd's may tend to try and herd people as well by nipping at their heels.

Australian Shepherd - Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   They are prone to hip dysplasia. Merle colored puppies are more prone to deafness and should have their hearing checked. Minor concerns are CHD and nasal solar dermatitis.

2. Exercise Needs:

   Australian Shepherd's are working dogs and need vigorous exercise to stay in shape.

3. Grooming Needs:

   They require little grooming other than weekly brushing with a firm bristle brush. They should be bathed only when necessary.

4. Travel Needs:

   For the safety of yourself as well as your Australian Shepherd, using a safety belt harness is best while traveling in the car. This will keep him comfortable while preventing him from roaming around the car possibly causing injury to himself or others.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   Australian Shepherd's make excellent companions for children. They are gentle and protective. They get along well with other animals and generally have no aggressiveness towards other dogs.

Australian Shepherd -- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Look for bright and clear eyes, healthy coat and skin and clean ears that are free of parasites.

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   Things to have on hand for your new puppy are: a good puppy food, a brush for grooming, toys and a crate or kennel.

3. Puppy-proofing your house:

   Keep all small objects out of reach.

4. How to make your new puppy feel at home:

   Your new puppy may seem shy and intimidated at first. Provide them with a quiet and comfortable place to sleep. Let them explore their new surroundings and get familiar with their new home. Use interactive dog toys to play with your new puppy so you can get to know each other. With lots of love and interaction your new puppy will feel at home in no time.