Origin:

The Australian Shepherd is a breed of herding dog that was developed on ranches in the Western United States.  Despite its name, the breed, commonly known as an Aussie, did not originate in Australia.  The breed was developed most likely in the Pyrenees Mountains somewhere between Spain and France, and refined in the U.S. to work as a herding dog on ranches.  The breed's principal forebears were most likely Spanish dogs that accompanied the Basque shepherds and herds of fine Merino sheep exported to both America and Australia in the early days of the colonies.  At some point it probably crossed with Collie stock.  They became known to the general public through rodeos, horse shows, and through Disney movies made for television.  The dog has had many names in the past including the Pastor Dog, Blue Heeler, Spanish Shepherd, Bob-Tail, New Mexican Shepherd, and California Shepherd.

 

For many years, Aussies have been valued by stockmen for their inherent versatility and trainability.  While they continue to work as stock dogs and compete in herding trials, the breed has earned recognition in other roles due to their trainability and eagerness to please, and are highly regarded for their skills in obedience.  Like all working breeds, the Aussie has considerable energy and drive, and usually needs a job to do.  It often excels at dog sports such as dog agility, flyball, and Frisbee.  They are also highly successful search and rescue dogs, disaster dogs, detection dogs, and assistance dogs.

 

Appearance:

The Aussie, as it is known, is a medium-sized, robust, well-balanced, rustic dog.  The ears are set high at the side of the head, triangular and slightly rounded at the tip.  Eye colors include brown, blue, amber or any variation or combination including flecks and marbling.  Coat colors include blue merle, red merle (liver), black or red with or without white markings and/or tan (copper) points, with no order of preference.  The coat is of medium texture, straight to slightly wavy, weather resistant, of moderate length with an undercoat.  The quantity of undercoat varies with climate.  Hair is short and smooth on the head, outside of the ears, front of the forelegs and below the hocks.  Backs of the forelegs are moderately feathered; breeches are moderately full.  There is a moderate mane and frill, which is more pronounced in male dogs than females.  The dog's body should be slightly longer than its height at the withers.  The chest is not broad but is deep with the lowest point reaching the elbow.  The overall size of the head should be in proportion to the body, with the muzzle being equal or slightly shorter than the back skull.  

 

Temperament:

Australian Shepherds are easy-going, remaining puppy-like even in their adult years.  This courageous dog makes a good watchdog for the home.  Socialize well to prevent them from becoming suspicious of strangers.  Aussies are excellent with children, even with an active child, as they love to play but care should be taken so the Aussie doesn't nip at the heels of children.  Affectionate, very lively, agile and attentive - they are eager to please, with a sixth sense about what the owner wants.  Australian Shepherds are highly intelligent and easy to train.  Though aggressive when at work with livestock, the Aussie is gentle with human friends.  The Aussie is a quiet worker and this breed is not usually dog aggressive.

 

Height & Weight:

Height: Dogs 20-23 inches Bitches 18-21 inches

Weight: Dogs 50-65 pounds Bitches 40-55 pounds

 

Exercise:

Australian Shepherds are not the kind of dog to lie around the living room all day or live happily in the backyard with only a 15 minute walk.  They need much more exercise than that and something to occupy their mind daily or they will become bored, leading to serious behavior problems.  Without enough mental and physical exercise and or a lack of a true pack leader, they can become nervous and destructive if left alone.  Working lines may be too energetic for people who only have a moderately active lifestyle.  This breed is not recommended for apartment life.  They are relatively active indoors and will do best with at least a large yard and a tall fence.

 

Grooming:

The coat needs to be brushed regularly with a firm bristle/slicker brush to remove the dead undercoat and prevent excess shedding.  Bathe only when necessary.  This breed is an average shedder.  The show Aussie does require mild trimming.

 

Life Expectancy:

About 12-15 years