Australian Shepherd

Vital Statistics:

Place of Origin: United States

Group: Herding dog

Height: 18-23 in.

Weight: 45-65 lbs.

Life span: 12-15 yrs.

Trainability: high

Good with children: yes

Good with other pets: yes

April’s Dog of the Month

Don’t let the name fool you – this Aussie was bred in California.

The Australian Shepherd was not developed in Australia as originally thought. Just learned that this little Aussie is really American grown. It appears that although associated with Basque sheepherders who came to California through Australia, the Australian Shepherd was bred in the U.S. and exported to Australia.

What does the Australian Shepherd look like?

The Aussie is 18-23 inches tall and weighs 40-65 lbs. depending on gender. Ears are triangular in shape. Eyes are almond-shaped, any color or combination of colors. The coat is medium long, straight or wavy, weather-resistant. The undercoat is soft and dense. Colors are black, blue merle, red, red merle and all can have white or tan markings.Grooming should include brushing the coat 2 or 3 times weekly.

What is the Australian Shepherd’s personality?

They are lively and spirited and fun to have around. The Aussie is easily trained and eager to please. They bond closely with their owner and love lots of attention. They need to have a job to avoid bad behavior. Aussies are very active and need lots of exercise and an active owner.

What are Australian Shepherds used for?

Aussies are used as seeing-eye dogs, hearing aid dogs, for therapy, search and rescue and of course herding and guarding flocks. With proper training and exercise, they are wonderful companion dogs.

Possible Health Issues

Hip dysplasia, thyroid dysfunction, epilepsy, allergies, coloboma (missing part of the eye’s iris, discomfort in bright lights).