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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

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

Dealing With Australian Shepherds And Chewing

Dealing With Australian Shepherds And Chewing

If you’re dealing with an Australian Shepherd who loves to chew, check out these tips for keeping him healthy and entertained.

24th April 2022

The Australian Shepherd: Temperament and Personality Guide

A pet dog is a wonderful companion. If you are considering adding an Australian Shepherd to your family, it is important that you know what their temperament is like. Find out more about this amazing bread

24th April 2022

Introducing Your Australian Shepherd To Other Dogs And Cats

Introducing Your Australian Shepherd To Other Dogs And Cats

Learn how to prepare your home for the new addition, introduce your Australian Shepherd gradually and ensure that everyone gets along.

24th April 2022

Bonding With Your Australian Shepherd

Bonding With Your Australian Shepherd

Find out how to bond with your Aussie and get the most out of life with a loyal, loving companion. Australian Shepherds are among the most devoted breeds on earth!

24th April 2022

Running with your Australian Shepherd

Running with your Australian Shepherd

Dogs love to run. They are bred to roam, and they need the exercise. If you have an Australian Shepherd and love running, then why not run together? Here is how to train your Australian Shepherd to become a good running partner.

24th April 2022

Australian Shepherds and Swimming - A guide

Australian Shepherds and Swimming – A guide

Do You love your Australian Shepherd, but you’re worried about taking him or her swimming? We have the solution! See our comprehensive guide on how to safely take your dog for a swim.

22nd April 2022

Do Australian Shepherds Lick A Lot

Do Australian Shepherds Lick A Lot?

Learn about why Australian shepherds lick excessively and what you can do to stop the behavior.

22nd April 2022

Are Australian Shepherds Smart Dogs

Are Australian Shepherds Smart Dogs?

There are many dog experts that believe the Australian Shepherd is one of the smartest dog breeds. We explore whether this claim has any merit and why they have a reputation for being smart dogs.

22nd April 2022

Do Australian Shepherds Shed Hair

Do Australian Shepherds Shed Hair?

Find out everything you need to know about Australian Shepherds and whether or not they shed hair. Includes tips on how to reduce the amount of shedding.

22nd April 2022

Australian Shepherd lifespan - How Long Can Your Australian Shepherd Live

Australian Shepherd lifespan – How Long Can Your Australian Shepherd Live?

Wondering how long your Australian Shepherd will live? Here, we take a look at some of the things that can affect an Aussie Shepherd’s lifespan and provide tips on how you can help your pup live a long and healthy life!

17th April 2022

Epilepsy and Seizures in Australian Shepherds

Epilepsy and Seizures in Australian Shepherds

Learn about epilepsy and seizures in Australian Shepherds, the symptoms, how to treat it, and living with a dog that has this condition.

2nd April 2022

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