Tailster
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.
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
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
The Australian Shepherd is recognized in three distinct sizes - Standard, Miniature, and Toy. The key differences are primarily their size.
The Australian Shepherd breed standard favours a “button ear” look, but if yours isn’t can it be fixed or should it be left alone?
Find out more here >>
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.
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.
Are you considering adding an Australian Shepherd to your family? Here are some of the most common disadvantages of owning this breed.
Find out what it’s like living with an Australian Shepherd, whether they’re good around children and family.
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.
