Australian Shepherd Coat Colors and Patterns

The Australian Shepherd is a popular breed of dog known for its intelligence, athleticism, and loyalty. In addition to their distinctive personality traits, these dogs also come in a variety of coat colors and patterns. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes several different coat colors and patterns for Australian Shepherds, including blue merle, red merle, black, red, tri-color, bi-color, solid, spotted, brindle, sable, and white.

Blue Merle Australian Shepherds

Blue merle Australian Shepherds are perhaps the most well-known color variation of the breed. These dogs have a base coat of black, with random grey or silver patches throughout their fur. The merle pattern is caused by a genetic mutation that results in a mottled appearance. Blue merle Australian Shepherds may also have white markings on their chest, legs, and face.

Red Merle Australian Shepherds

Red merle Australian Shepherds are similar in appearance to blue merles, but their base coat is a reddish-brown color. Like blue merles, they have the merle pattern, which creates a mottled appearance. Red merle Australian Shepherds may also have white markings on their chest, legs, and face.

Black Australian Shepherds

Black Australian Shepherds have a solid black coat without any other color variations. They may have white markings on their chest, legs, and face. Black Australian Shepherds are less common than blue or red merles, but they are still a popular color variation of the breed.

Red Australian Shepherds

Red Australian Shepherds have a solid red coat without any other color variations. Like black Australian Shepherds, they may have white markings on their chest, legs, and face. Red Australian Shepherds are less common than blue or red merles, but they are still a popular color variation of the breed.

Tri-Color Australian Shepherds

Tri-color Australian Shepherds have a combination of black, white, and tan or copper-colored fur. They typically have a black base coat with white markings and tan or copper-colored points on their face, legs, and chest.

Bi-Color Australian Shepherds

Bi-color Australian Shepherds have a base coat of either black or red, with white markings on their chest, legs, and face. They do not have any other color variations in their fur.

Solid Australian Shepherds

Solid Australian Shepherds have a single base coat color without any other color variations. They may be black, red, or another solid color.

Spotted Australian Shepherds

Spotted Australian Shepherds have a base coat of either black or red, with white spots throughout their fur. They may also have other white markings on their chest, legs, and face.

Brindle Australian Shepherds

Brindle Australian Shepherds have a base coat of either black or red, with darker stripes or spots throughout their fur. They may also have white markings on their chest, legs, and face.

Sable Australian Shepherds

Sable Australian Shepherds have a base coat of any color, with black-tipped hairs throughout their fur. This creates a shaded or gradient effect. They may also have white markings on their chest, legs, and face.

White Australian Shepherds

White Australian Shepherds have a solid white coat without any other color variations. They may have blue or brown eyes and may be deaf or partially deaf due to a genetic mutation that causes the lack of pigmentation in their ears. White Australian Shepherds are less common than other color variations of the breed.