Mary Allen
A happy play companion, but also a reliable working dog with a strong personality, the Australian Shepherd, also called the Aussie, is a smart dog that inspires many dog lovers. Now we will tell you what you need to know if you want to add an Australian Shepherd to your family. You will also learn more interesting information about this dog breed.
Australian Shepherd in Breed Portrait: Profile
- Function: herding dogs
- Height at withers: females 46 to 53 cm, males 51 to 58 cm.
- Lifespan: twelve to 15 years
- Weight:
Females: 15 to 22 kg.
Males: 19 to 28 kg. - Wool and color:
Average length
black, maroon, sky blue, marbled, red merle - Personality and Temperament: Active, intelligent, even-tempered, reliable, alert
- Willingness to move: 5/5
- Suitable for beginners: 2/5
According to the FCI, Australian Shepherds are classified as group 1 herding dogs and herding dogs. This is one of the medium-sized dog breeds that come from a working lineage. Although the name suggests that this dog breed originated in Australia, the Australian Shepherd evolved in the United States instead.
One possible theory, however, is that the Basque shepherds brought herding dogs with them when they arrived in America and they settled there. Accordingly, Australian Shepherds have been used as a farm, ranch, and herding dogs mainly for sheep. This is evident in his appearance. The Australian Shepherd is very muscular but not heavy.
Features of the Breed
Smart, friendly, lively, and warm are just a few adjectives that describe the basic character of this dog breed. Australian Shepherds are very harmonious in character and therefore well suited as family dogs. However, only if they have enough exercise and employment. They are often a bit wary and reserved when they first meet, but warm up after a while and quickly get used to their new surroundings.
They have a pronounced herd and guard instinct, are willing to learn, and are conscientious – that is, if their owner or mistress gives them a task or command, they will try to do it immediately to please their man. However, you cannot expect this from your Australian Shepherd right from the start. Loving yet consistent parenting is key and essential. You should be able to understand the versatile nature of the Australian Shepherd and respond to it individually. Then you will be a great team.
Attitude: Australian Shepherd needs an Activity
Mental and physical preparation is very important for this breed of dog. Australian Shepherds have a lot of energy – after all, they had to look after the cattle all day long. That’s why four-legged friends also need a lot of exercise in the form of long walks or bike rides, and dog sports like agility or dog dancing.
Due to the high urge to move, this breed of dog is not suitable for everyone. Nature lovers and active people with plenty of time are the rightful owners of the Australian Shepherd with its athletic qualities. In a small city apartment without walking, this breed of dog will not cope. At least one large yard is a must when buying an Australian Shepherd.
Care & Common Diseases
When it comes to grooming, the Australian Shepherd is relatively undemanding. It is enough to comb it once a week to remove dead hair. You should trim the protruding, too-long hair on the ears, paws, pasterns, and heels at regular intervals. You can find out exactly how it works from a breeder or a dog salon.
Diseases most common in Australian Shepherds include hip or elbow dysplasia, various types of cataracts, and eye changes. However, autoimmune diseases or neurological diseases such as epilepsy can also occur in these dogs. In general, however, Australian Shepherds are one of the more robust and healthy four-legged friends compared to other dog breeds.
Australian Shepherd – Sports Gun with Brains
If you decide to include an Australian Shepherd in your family, you will get an active four-legged friend who will challenge you and want you to challenge him. The calm lap dog is the exact opposite of this breed of dog. If you have the space and time and would like to play sports with your animal friend, then you will find in the Australian Shepherd a loyal and loving companion who also integrates well into your family and will protect you as his pack.