The Australian Shepherd, frequently referred to as the “Aussie,” has a name that might suggest an Australian origin, but it was actually primarily developed in the United States. This breed is renowned for its vibrant appearance, keen intelligence, and boundless energy. Recognized as a versatile herding dog, the Aussie is not only an outstanding worker but also a beloved companion.
AKC Group
Herding
Height
18-23 Inches
Weight
40-65 Pounds
Lifespan
12-15 Years
Highlights
Country of Origin
United States
Bred For
Herding, Guarding, Companionship
Known For
Intelligence, Trainability, Loyalty
Popularity
High
Temperament
Intelligent, Exuberant, Good-Natured
Activities
Herding, Tracking, Running, Hiking, Farm Dog, Conformation Shows, Dog Sports
History of the Australian Shepherd
Contrary to its name, the Australian Shepherd did not originate Down Under. Its roots can be traced back to the Basque region of the Pyrenees Mountains between Spain and France, although the modern breed’s development took place in the United States.
In the early 1800s, Basque shepherds began to emigrate to Australia in search of greener pastures and job opportunities. They brought with them their trusted sheepdogs, which had evolved over centuries to excel in the challenging mountain terrain of the Pyrenees. In Australia, these shepherds and their dogs were exposed to a new range of sheep herding tasks, and over time, the dogs may have interbred with local dogs, further refining their herding capabilities.
By the late 1800s and early 1900s, many of these Basque shepherds, along with British settlers, moved to the United States, especially to the West Coast. They brought their unique dogs with them, and American ranchers were deeply impressed by the dogs’ herding prowess, mistakenly assuming the breed had Australian origins due to its recent migration pattern. Hence, the name “Australian Shepherd” took hold.
The breed’s capabilities, however, were not restricted to herding. In the American West, they quickly gained popularity in rodeos and at horse shows, and even on TV programs, gaining a reputation as highly trainable, smart, and versatile performers.
Over the years, different Breed Standards for the Australian Shepherd emerged. The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the breed in 1993, although it had been popular in the country long before this formal recognition. Other major canine organizations, like the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and The Royal Kennel Club (UK), have also recognized the breed, emphasizing its stature and significance in the canine world at-large.
Throughout its history, the Australian Shepherd has remained a beautiful symbol of adaptability, intelligence, and hard work. From the rugged mountains of Europe to the tough Australian territories to the sprawling ranches of the American West, the Aussie has always been a trusted companion and invaluable worker, embodying the spirit of frontier life.
General Appearance
Height & Weight
Adult male Australian Shepherds typically stand between 20 and 23 inches at the shoulder, while mature females measure slightly smaller, ranging from 18 to 21 inches tall.
In terms of weight, males generally weigh between 50 and 65 pounds, while females typically weigh between 40 and 55 pounds.
Proportion & Substance
The Australian Shepherd is slightly longer than it is tall, giving it a somewhat rectangular yet balanced profile. This proportion supports the breed’s agile and athletic nature, allowing for quick direction changes; a trait that’s invaluable in a herding dog. The Aussie’s substance is solid without appearing stocky, maintaining an air of agility and speed.
Coat Texture, Colors & Markings
Texture: The Australian Shepherd’s coat is of medium texture, neither coarse nor fine, and straight to slightly wavy in texture. The breed has a double coat. The outer coat is resistant to rain whereas the undercoat varies in quantity, depending on the climate. The coat is typically more profuse in males than in females, especially on the mane and frill.
Australian Shepherd Colors
Standard Color
Black
ee
Blue Merle
ee
Red
ee
Red Merle
ee
Australian Shepherd Markings
Standard Marking
White Markings
ee
Tan Points
ee
White Markings, Tan Points
ee
A Note About Color: White is acceptable as a blaze on the head and on the neck, chest, legs, underside of the muzzle, and up to four inches on the underpart as measured from the elbow. White on the head should not predominate, and the eyes are to be fully surrounded by color and pigment. White anywhere other than described is unacceptable.
Head
Skull: The Australian Shepherd has a clean-cut head that’s strong and dry. The skull is flat to slightly rounded, tapering slightly toward the eyes. There’s a slight but definite stop between the skull and muzzle, giving it a balanced appearance.
Expression: Aussies have an expression that is intelligent, alert, and eager. Their watchful nature is reflected in their eyes, which are always keen and observant.
Eyes: The eyes are perhaps one of the breed’s most distinctive features. They can be brown, blue, amber, or any variation or combination thereof, including flecks and marbling. Some Aussies even have one eye that’s a different color from the other, a trait known as heterochromia.
Ears: The ears of the Australian Shepherd are set high at the side of the head. They are triangular in shape and may droop forward slightly when the dog is at attention. They are, however, not overly large, maintaining a proportion that’s in balance with the head.
Muzzle: The muzzle tapers slightly from the base to the nose and is of equal or slightly less length than the backskull. It is rounded at the tip, with the upper and lower jaws strong and well-developed.
Nose: The color of the nose corresponds with the coat color. For instance, blue merles and blacks have a black nose, whereas red merles and reds have a liver-colored nose.
Bite: The Australian Shepherd has a scissors bite, where the upper incisors closely overlap the lower incisors. This bite alignment is crucial for the breed, especially considering its herding background, where a strong bite is essential.
Tail
The Australian Shepherd’s tail is another distinctive feature of the breed. Traditionally, it is straight and naturally short, often referred to as a “bobtail.” The tail’s length can vary, but it is typically not longer than four inches. Aussies that are born with longer tails often have them docked when they are puppies, although this practice varies based on regional standards and personal preferences.
In recent years, there’s been a trend towards leaving the tail undocked in regions where docking is not required or permitted. When left natural, the tail is moderately long and slightly curved, carried in a relaxed manner when the dog is at rest. In motion or when alert, the tail should be raised but should not curl over the back.
It’s essential to note that whether docked or undocked, the tail should not be the determining factor in the Aussie’s overall quality.
The Australian Shepherd – What to Consider?
Owning an Australian Shepherd is a rewarding experience, given the breed’s intelligence, loyalty, and energy levels. Often chosen for its herding abilities and as a family companion, the Aussie is known to be an exceptionally versatile dog. However, as with any breed, it’s essential to understand its specific needs and characteristics to ensure a harmonious relationship between the dog and its family members.
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals will vary. While some breeds may only show genuine warmth towards their owner, remaining standoffish with strangers, other breeds will treat everyone they meet as if they are their closest friend.
IndependentAffectionate
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed. Although supervision is always recommended during introductions, certain breeds tend to be inherently more or less sociable with other dogs, whether in a home setting or in public spaces.
Not RecommendedReliable With Other Dogs
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children, and its overall suitability as a family member, will vary. It is important to always supervise interactions between dogs and the kids in the house, as well as with children who are not accustomed to being around dogs.
Not RecommendedDependable With Children
Upkeep
Amount Of Shedding
The amount of hair that a dog sheds will typically depend on its breed. Heavy-shedding breeds require more frequent brushing, have a higher chance of activating specific allergies, and often necessitate more frequent use of the vacuum cleaner and lint rollers.
LowHigh
Frequency Of Grooming
The regularity with which a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming, or other forms of coat care is an all-important consideration. When evaluating the grooming effort required, consider your available time, patience, and budget. It is important to note that all breeds need routine ear, teeth, and nail care.
MonthlyDaily
Amount Of Drooling
The tendency of a breed to drool significantly varies from breed to breed. For those who prefer cleanliness or are particular about keeping things tidy, breeds that are likely to leave trails of drool on your arm or large slobbery marks on your clothing and furniture might not be the best fit.
LowHigh
Coat Type
smooth
wiry
hairless
rough
corded
double
curly
wavy
sikly
Coat Length
short
medium
long
Behavior
Acceptance Of New People
The likelihood of a breed to be friendly towards strangers will vary. While some breeds may consistently exhibit reserve or caution around unfamiliar people, regardless of the setting, others are often eager to greet and interact with any new person they meet.
ReservedOutgoing
Protective Nature
The propensity of a dog to notify you of the presence of strangers is breed-dependent. Some breeds are more inclined to respond to any perceived threat, be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, most breeds are generally more accepting of strangers who are welcomed by their human family members.
Minimal InterestMaximum Vigilance
Playfulness Level
The likelihood of a breed remaining playful beyond puppyhood will vary. Certain breeds retain their enthusiasm for activities like tug-of-war or games of fetch well into their adult years, whereas others are more content to simply lounge on the sofa with you for the majority of time.
LowHigh
Adaptability Level
The ease with which a breed can adapt to changes in its environment can vary greatly. This adaptability encompasses how well a breed is likely to cope with alterations to its home and yard, noise levels, weather conditions, daily routines, and other fluctuations in everyday life.
LowHigh
Personality
Trainability Level
The ease with which a dog can be trained and its eagerness to learn new skills can depend on the breed. Some breeds are naturally inclined to please their owners and will readily accept training, while others tend to follow their own desires, often showing independence in how, when, and where they choose to do things.
StubbornEager
Barking Level
The frequency of vocalization, including barking and howling, will vary from breed to breed. Some may bark at each person who passes by and every bird in the sky, while others will typically bark only for a good reason. Additionally, a few breeds that do not typically bark will still be vocal, using different sounds to communicate.
QuietVocal
Energy Level
The level of physical exercise and mental engagement required will depend on the breed. High-energy breeds are always on the go. They are enthusiastic about their next activity and tend to be busy most of the time, running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. In contrast, low-energy breeds are akin to couch potatoes, content to just lounge around and take naps throughout the day.
Couch PotatoBusybody
Need For Mental Stimulation
The extent of mental stimulation needed to keep a dog content and healthy will vary by breed. Dogs bred for specific purposes may need tasks involving decision-making, problem-solving, and concentration. Without sufficient mental exercise, these dogs can resort to creating their own activities to engage their minds, resulting in unwanted behaviors like chewing, digging, and escaping.
Minimal EngagementIntensive Interaction
Australian Shepherd Health
The Australian Shepherd is generally a healthy and robust breed, but, like all breeds and mixed breeds, these dogs aren’t immune to certain health conditions. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and a good exercise regimen can help to maintain an Aussie’s overall well-being.
Lifespan: The average life expectancy of an Australian Shepherd ranges from 12 to 15 years. This lifespan can be influenced by various factors, including genetics, diet, exercise, and regular veterinary care.
Potential Health Risks
Australian Shepherds, though generally robust, can be predisposed to certain health concerns. Awareness of these can guide owners towards early detection, timely treatment, and prevention when possible:
Hip Dysplasia: This condition occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop correctly, leading to arthritis over time. Regular screenings can detect it early, and weight management can help to manage its progression.
Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, this is a hereditary malformation of the elbow joint, leading potentially to arthritis.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): This is a degenerative eye disorder that eventually causes blindness. Regular eye examinations by a veterinarian can detect the disease early on.
Cataracts: This eye condition can lead to blindness if left untreated. Surgery is often successful in restoring vision.
Epilepsy: As with so many dogs, Aussies can be prone to seizures which can be managed with medication and lifestyle adjustments.
Collie Eye Anomaly: This is a hereditary condition that can lead to blindness.
Multi-Drug Resistance (MDR1): Some Australian Shepherds have a mutation that makes them sensitive to certain drugs. A simple genetic test can determine if a dog has this mutation.
Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for early detection of these and other potential health issues. Owners should maintain an open dialogue with their veterinarian about any unusual symptoms or behaviors that are observe in the Aussie.
In addition to understanding these potential health risks, routine preventive care, such as vaccinations, heartworm prevention, and flea and tick control, are crucial for maintaining an Australian Shepherd’s overall health.
Australian Shepherd Personality
The Australian Shepherd is a breed marked by a vibrant spirit, great intelligence, and supreme adaptability. The breed’s dynamic personality always shines through, making it a favorite among many dog enthusiasts. For those considering an Aussie as a companion, there are several aspects of the breed’s temperament to understand.
Being a breed bursting with energy and intelligence, the Australian Shepherd can sometimes be overwhelming for novice dog owners. The breed’s drive to work, play, and please is commendable, but it also means these dogs require owners who are ready to channel that energy positively. Their intelligent nature means Aussies are quick learners, but it also signifies a need for mental stimulation and engagement.
One of the endearing qualities of the Australian Shepherd is its sensitivity. These dogs form strong bonds with their families and can be deeply attuned to their owner’s emotions. This sensitivity, paired with their eagerness to please, means the Aussie responds best to positive reinforcement during training.
If you’re someone who is away from home often, it’s essential to know that Australian Shepherds don’t particularly enjoy being left alone for extended periods. Their preference for company can manifest in seeking out human companionship or bonding with other pets. Without engagement, they can become bored, which might lead to undesirable behaviors.
A common concern for potential dog owners is how the breed interacts with others. Australian Shepherds, with their social nature, generally get along well with other dogs, especially if they’ve been introduced to canine companionship early on. This sociability extends to children as well. The breed’s playful demeanor resonates with kids, but families should be aware of the Aussie’s herding instincts, which might lead to nipping at the heels in an attempt to “herd.” With young children, supervision is always a good idea to ensure safe interactions.
While Aussies are friendly and loving with familiar faces, they can be a bit reserved when meeting strangers. However, this doesn’t translate to aggression. With proper introductions, and given time, they can warm up to new people quite quickly. Their alertness, paired with their reserved nature, makes them excellent watchdogs, always keen to alert their family to unfamiliar sounds or visitors.
Australian Shepherd Feeding & Nutrition
Nourishing an Australian Shepherd adequately plays a pivotal role in ensuring its health, longevity, and overall well-being. As an active and energetic breed, the Aussie’s dietary needs can be a bit higher than some other breeds, so finding the right balance is key.
When considering the nutritional needs of an Australian Shepherd puppy, it’s essential to provide a diet specifically formulated for growth. Puppies have a fast metabolism and require more calories and nutrients than adult dogs. It’s vital to feed them several small meals throughout the day to support their growing bodies and energy requirements. As puppies transition to adulthood, the frequency of meals and the calorie intake will gradually change.
Adult Australian Shepherds, given their high energy levels, also have robust nutritional requirements. They benefit from high-quality dog food, whether it’s commercially manufactured or prepared at home following expert veterinary advice. Caution should always be given to the quantity of food, ensuring it aligns with a dog’s weight, age, and activity level. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, a problem that can be detrimental to the breed, given its need for daily activity.
The amount of food an Australian Shepherd requires can vary based on several factors, including its size, age, metabolism, and activity level. Typically, a standard-sized adult Aussie might consume about 1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. However, this is a generalized guideline, and it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian or pet nutritionist to determine the optimal amount and type of food for your individual dog.
It’s also worth noting that Australian Shepherds can have a surprisingly hearty appetite. This love for food, combined with their intelligent and sometimes manipulative nature, means they might try to coax extra treats out of their owners. While treats can be an essential aid in training, they should be given only in moderation.
Australian Shepherd Training
Training an Australian Shepherd is a rewarding experience, but it does require patience, consistency, and understanding of the breed’s unique temperament. The Aussie’s intelligence and agility aren’t just suited for herding; these qualities also make these dogs standout performers in Obedience and other dog sports.
Australian Shepherds are innately driven by a desire to work alongside their human companions. This trait, while advantageous, means they crave tasks and activities to engage their minds and bodies. Without adequate mental stimulation, they may resort to creating their own “jobs,” which might not always align with a peaceful household, such as digging up the garden or chewing on furniture.
When it comes to ease of training, the Australian Shepherd is often a step ahead. The breed’s intelligence means it typically picks up new commands quickly. However, this also means the Aussie can easily pick up bad habits if not trained properly. Positive reinforcement methods, including treats, praise, and play, are usually the most effective training tools for this breed. Aussies respond best to an upbeat and varied training routine that challenges their intellect.
Barking can be an issue with some Australian Shepherds. The breed’s herding background and watchdog tendencies mean they can be vocal, alerting their owners to anything they
