Dog Breeds > Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd, or more commonly known as Aussie, is a very mild-natured dog that is good for herding as well as a pet. The Aussie most of the time excels at sports and other agility dog competition. Aside from that, Aussies are successful as detection dogs, rescue dogs, guide dogs, disaster dogs, therapy, and service dogs.
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Fascinating Facts
The Australian Shepherd, or more popularly known as an Aussie, did not really originate from Australia. Aussies didn’t actually exist before the Victorian era and the history of Aussies are still debatable. However, it’s believed that the modern Australian Shepherd was developed in North America from different herding dogs from Europe, most specifically those brought by Basque shepherds, to suit the climate and conditions in the American landscape.
Physical Appearance
The Australian Shepherd has a varying general appearance mostly depending on their two classifications – show and working dogs. Show dogs have fuller and longer coats having more whites compared to the shorter coats of working dogs. Show dogs also have a heavier bone structure while working dogs ranges from small, medium and heavy bone structures.
A fully-grown Australian Shepherd is medium built with a typical height and weight of 20-23 inches (for males), 18-21 inches (for females), and 50-65 lbs (for males), 40-55 lbs (for females), respectively. Associated colors of the Australian Shepherd include red (also called as liver), black, red merle, and blue merle with or without copper and/or tan markings. The tail also ranges from short bobbed to full long tails that usually break forward, to the side, or over, together with the ears, when its excited or in full attention.
Grooming
Occasional brushing is necessary for the Australian Shepherd. The use of a firm bristle is recommended and bathing is only when it’s necessary. Aside from that, no other attention is required as the Australian Shepherd’s coat is very uncomplicated to groom.
Mood
Known for their intelligence, obedience, trainability, and liveliness, Australian Shepherds are excellent working dogs as well as pet dogs. They are also courageous and protective making them excellent watchdogs. Australian Shepherds are generally aggressive with livestock while at work however they are very gentle with their human master and friends.
With Children
Australian Shepherds are very easy-going and puppy-like even when they’re already adults making them very much suitable for children. Active children would find the Australian Shepherd a very fun dog to play with. In addition, the dog’s friendly nature makes it very affectionate and eager to please.
Training & Exercise
It’s not recommended for an Australian Shepherd to be left inside the house or apartment. The Australian Shepherd is moderately active and is suitable for living outside the house, in a large backyard. Exercise is necessary as well as any kind of physical activity and mental exercise, including social orientation.
Health & Life Expectancy
The Australian Shepherd is prone to hearing, vision, pancreatic, hip and back, bladder, and thyroid problems. Most common health problems are cataract, nasal solar dermatitis, CEA, CHD, conjunctivitis, Pelger-Huet syndrome, and hypothyroidism. The average mortality of an Australian Shepherd is around 12 to 15 years of age.
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