Australian Shepherd Dog

The Australian Shepherd Dog are furry balls of energy, falling into the medium size category with a muscular build. Often compared to the Border Collie, they are agile and have plenty of stamina for a working dog.

Other Names
Aussie
Country of Origin
Pyrenees Mountains and later United States of America
Colour

Black, red, blue merle and red merle. Merle is a mottled colour that changes and darkens as your dog ages. White markings on the chest, legs, forehead and under the muzzle are typical of the breed.

Size
Large
Height / Weight
Dogs ideally measure between 51-58cms. They usually weigh around 16 - 32kgs.
Health
As they are from the Collie family, the Australian Shepherd has inherited a few eye diseases such as Coloboma, Microopthalmia, Retinal Detachments, Retinal Atrophy and Cataracts. Asking to see the eye certificate of a puppy’s parents is always recommended. Hip Dysplasia, Epilepsy and Pelger Huet are all potential risks for this breed.
Life Span

12-13 years

Intelligence
Australian Shepherds are willing to please and very good learners. In order for them to achieve their full potential they must be trained or they run the risk of acting out. As they were bred to be working dogs, they need daily exercise. Don’t be surprised if you’re exhausted before they’re even panting, they are truly tireless workers!
Exercise
High
Suitability (Children)
Medium
Feeding

With a big appetite, these canine chums can become quickly overweight if not given the chance to exercise often.

Feeding Cost
$15-$20 p/w
Other Cost
Excercise
You may like long walks on the beach but these dogs need to feel the wind in their face and RUN! Free running, farm work and play time are all necessary to keep your Shepherd healthy. They are particularly talented in obedience, agility and herding.
Hair Shed
Little
Ailments
As they are from the Collie family, the Australian Shepherd has inherited a few eye diseases such as Coloboma, Microopthalmia, Retinal Detachments, Retinal Atrophy and Cataracts. Asking to see the eye certificate of a puppy’s parents is always recommended. Hip Dysplasia, Epilepsy and Pelger Huet are all potential risks for this breed.
Grooming
With a thick double coat and often a love of the outdoors, these furry friends need a good brush every now and then - particularly during shedding season!
Grooming Frequency
Up to once a week
Trimming
Occasional
Here’s a fun fact: The Australian Shepherd originates from the Pyrenees Mountains between Spain and France–not Australia! It was later introduced to the United States and Australia as a herding dog in the early colonial era. Pastor Dogs, Spanish Shepherds, Bob-tails and Californian Sheepdog were a few names tried out before settling on the somewhat misleading title of Australian Shepherd Dog. The official breed standard was recorded in 1976 and was recognised by the American Kennel Club in 1992.


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