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Tailster / Dogs / Breeds / Pastoral / Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherd Breed Guide

While the origins of the Australian Shepherd (or Aussie) was Australian, the modern version was actually bred in California during the 19th century.

Their ancestry is believed to include Basque and Pyrenean Mountain Dogs and Collies that were taken to Australia and New Zealand by the European settlers.

Although the breed was developed in California, the Australian part of the name is believed to have come from the association with the original herding dogs that came over with the flocks of sheep imported from Australia and New Zealand and with the prospectors during the California Goldrush - after all, an Aussie can make a very good guard dog too!

They became popular outside farming circles in the mid 20th century when Jay Lister, and other rodeo performers, used Australian Shepherds as part of their act. Since then they have become more even popular outside their traditional livestock working habitat than within.

Breed Facts

Height (Adult): Male: 51–58 cm / 20-23 inches, Female: 46–54 cm / 18-21 inches

Weight (Adult): Male: 25–32 kg / 50-65 pounds, Female: 16–25 kg / 40-55 pounds

Life Expectancy: 13 to 15 years

Hypoallergenic: No

Origin: USA

Temperament: Intelligent, Playful, Energetic, Loyal, Protective (with a strong herding instinct) and Adaptive

Appearance

The Australian Shepherd is an athletic, medium-sized breed. Their tails vary in length. Longer-tailed dogs traditionally had their tails docked, but this is rarely the case now.

Their coat is a moderately long and wavy double coat with a dense undercoat and coarse topcoat that is feathered on the rear of the legs.

Their colours range widely and the breed standard allows for merle (a mottled pattern with contrasting shades of either blue or red), solid black or solid red, with or without white markings, and with or without tan points

Australian Shepherd Front-On

This is what a Best In Show at Crufts Australian Shepherd Looks Like



What are the Differences between the Standard Australian Shepherd vs Miniature vs Toy?

The Australian Shepherd is recognized in three distinct sizes - Standard, Miniature, and Toy. The key differences are primarily their size.

Standard Australian Shepherd

The Standard Australian Shepherd is the most common and the oldest, with the males standing as much as 2 feet tall and weighing up to 65lbs for healthy dogs.

Australian Shepherd Lying

Miniature Australian Shepherd

Miniature Australian Shepherds are a smaller version of their standard counterparts. They typically stand 15-18 inches tall and weigh between 25 - 40 pounds

They were developed in the 1960s by Doris Cordova, who partnered with a veterinarian and established a breeding program to produce Aussies of compact size.

See more about Miniature Australian Shepherds here >>

Miniature Australian Shepherd

Toy Australian Shepherd

Toy Australian Shepherds still possess most of their larger cousin's personality traits, such asss their strong herding instinct and may even give you a friendly nip at your heels to get you penned!

These smaller Aussies typically range from 10-14 inches tall and weigh between 6 and 23 pounds and can make great family pets

See more about Toy Australian Shepherds here >>

Toy Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds and Glaucoma

Australian Shepherds and Glaucoma

Do you have an Australian Shepherd with glaucoma? Here’s everything you need to know about the disease, as well as treatment alternatives and how to help your dog live a happy life.

4th May 2022

Australian Shepherds and Separation Anxiety

Australian Shepherds and Separation Anxiety

If you have an Australian Shepherd, you may be aware that they are afflicted with separation anxiety. Learn more about this issue and how to help your best friend.

3rd May 2022

Disadvantages Of Having An Australian Shepherd

Disadvantages Of Having An Australian Shepherd

Are you considering adding an Australian Shepherd to your family? Here are some of the most common disadvantages of owning this breed.

24th April 2022

Are Australian Shepherds A Good Breed Around Children And Family

Are Australian Shepherds A Good Breed Around Children And Family?

Find out what it’s like living with an Australian Shepherd, whether they’re good around children and family.

24th April 2022

Australian Shepherd Recall Training - How To Let Your Australian Shepherd Off Lead

Australian Shepherd Recall Training – How To Let Your Australian Shepherd Off Lead

Want to let your dog off the leash but you aren’t sure how? Read these tips for training a reliable recall and safely letting your Australian Shepherd off-leash.

24th April 2022

How To Train Your Australian Shepherd

How To Train Your Australian Shepherd

Wondering how to train your Australian Shepherd? This article is for you! We’ll discuss the best ways to train your Aussie, as well as provide tips and tricks.

24th April 2022

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