Myrl the Australian Shepherd demonstrates how much energy Australian Shepherds have.

Pema hasn’t seen me for a whole year, and boy, is she excited!

Dog picture taken by pwcorgigirl.

My dog, Sydney, smiling for the camera with Gidget the tortoiseshell cat. Camera: Fujifilm Finepix Z20fd

Dog picture taken by protoflux.

Australian Shepherd is every bit as graceful as its more famous German variety. And like German Shepherd, these too, are bred as herd dogs, trained and nourished to take care of cattle. Also referred to as “Aussie”, they first appeared in Australia in the early 1800s and come in colors ranging from near black to blue merle. The original purpose of this breed was to serve as guardians for sheep and cattle herds, but it did not take very long for them to build a reputation for sharp intelligence and unfailing loyalty.

They also come in a number of sizes from sleek and gangling to short and stout. They weight from 35 to 65, and some of them have now the famous one-blue-one-brown-eye combination. Quite a prankster, the Aussies’ capacity for ‘humor’ is matchless among dogs.

However, the Aussie is not for everyone. Having been bred as a herd dog it does not take well to the apartment living of the modern day. It needs space to move and play around. They have no patience to sit and watch television alongside other family members. Their idea of socialization is going out in open, jog around a little and play around a lot. So, if you are one of those television-after-office kind, the Aussie is certainly not for you. It is energetic to the extremes and would try its best to pull you in an active game. Do not expect it to lie at your feet while you type away on your computer or do easy chit chat on phone. You may live in a apartment and it will be happy so long as evenings are his and he gets to play “canine frisbee” or catch-me-if-you-can every evening without fail.

Once you are home from office, it would either want you to indulge with him in a wrestling match or take him out. If you don’t do either, he would find something to do all by himself, which may not be a good news, for they have the reputation for chewing and eating anything that allows their teeth to sink in.

It is highly intelligent and has this deep rooted tendency to closely ‘investigate’ everything. If you are cooking, it may come in to smell and check if the pots smell good and if you are in the shower it may jump in to join you. Besides, they are not really very welcoming hosts. Their sense of humor goes to dogs (other dogs, that is) when it comes to entertaining an unknown guest. They would stare and growl if a guest drops in unannounced. So, if you are getting an Aussie, tell your friends not to ring the bell every time they happen to pass by, for the Aussie is not going to like it. They are kind to children and are staunch protectors of the family.

The Australian Shepherd dog, also commonly called Aussie, is a relatively small working dog that was originally developed on ranches in Western USA. It acquired the Australian part of its name when shepherds from Australia came to USA. During the second World War this breed grew in popularity, and the public grew to know them when they appeared on rodeos, in TV shows and Disney movies.

Like all other working breeds it’s a very energetic dog, easy to train, and devoted to its task. There are both work and show dogs. They can work as rescue dogs, disaster dogs, detection dogs, guide, service and therapy dogs as well as regular family dogs. There is a miniature version of this dog as well, not yet accepted as a breed.

The standard size of Australian Shepherd was registered with the AKC in the early 1990s, and weight is not specified in the standard. Males weigh around 45-60 pounds and females weigh 35-45 pounds. Their colour tends to be black, red (also called liver), blue merle (marbled black and grey) and red merle (marbled red and silver or buff). There exists a rare brand based on this one called The Chinese Australian Shepherd, bred in the Tibet mountains.

This brand has a different colouring, which can sometimes be darker lilac or magneta, a very unusual shade. It is believed that this colour is due to the inappropriate diet they have in this region.

Common eye colours for this breed include green, hazel, amber, brown, or blue – and they may also have two different coloured eyes, and sometimes even two colours in one eye. An early nickname for the breed was ghost-eye dog.

In general this breed is energetic and needs regular exercise, though some of them enjoy a lazier lifestyle. They are intelligent, lean easyil and are easy to train as well. They love to play, and are reliable around children as well. It’s a well-suited dog both for veteran dog-owners and newcomers. They love activities such as jogging, chasing balls, herding, biking, and Frisbee, and can sometimes be quite attention-craving and demanding on the owners.

Some common health issues for this breed are cataracts, epilepsy, glaucoma, heart problems, allergies, skin problems, and cancer. It is important to see to it that both parents have OFA and CERF certificates. They have a lifespan from around 11-13 years, based upon a survey from 1998.

When looking for which dog breed to choose for your family, there are always several issues to take into consideration. Jesse and Harley, who are brother and sister, are the first Australian shepherd dogs we’ve had in our family, and I must say, I am very impressed by this breed of dog.

When Harley was a puppy and had chewed her squeaky ball to a frazzle, I put it in the bathroom sink to temporarily get it out of sight before I could throw it away. I didn’t want any of the loosened rubber to get lodged down her throat. I heard a scrambling noise behind me and lo and behold, Harley had managed to scramble up the side of the bathroom cabinets and was joyfully standing in the sink, retrieving her ball!

Right then and there I knew, this is no ordinary breed of dog! We have no herd of sheep for them to corral, and we only have an oversized, fenced backyard for them to play and romp in, but lots of play at dog parks and long walks in the woods have been a necessity to keep these Aussies happy. Australian shepherds are fantastic dogs for agility training also. The fast-paced runs are perfect for their athleticism.

All in all, I’ve found them to be energetic, super smart, playful, good with children and one aspect that I really appreciate is that they are a breed that doesn’t roam. As far as training, they are so smart, that it doesn’t take long for them to catch on to what I am trying to help them understand. The slant I use for training is a gentle, positive approach. With repetition, they are quick to catch on.

For an example, if Jesse rolls in something nasty during our walks, or gets totally muddy playing in the small child’s boat we keep full of water in the summer, all I have to do is ask him to jump in the tub, and show him what I mean, and he knows to go straight into the house and jump into the bathtub for a quick wash. My previous dogs were a yellow lab and a German shepherd, and I’d never experienced a dog who could just jump in the tub so effortlessly as Jesse can.

In closing, what I’d like to stress to anyone considering this breed is that they need lots of exercise (not necessarily strenuous), interesting things to do, and to stay close to their family. They are happiest in continual contact with their ‘flock’ which includes their human family. They want to make sure everyone in the family gets along, too. Harley especially will emit a low growl if she thinks play is too rough (between other dogs or people). She is an expert at breaking up dogs who are too rambunctious with each other if she feels one of them is being bullied or picked on.

All in all, I would highly recommend this breed to the right family. They would not be suitable for a small apartment, but rather need space and an active family to let their personalities and their boundless energy shine through.

…..earlier I thought there was a problem with the plumbing…..maybe a pipe leaking or something…. jdkbell Normally he sings or howls, but this time he was just splashing away. Blue Merle Australian Shepherd with two blue eyes – Lazlo.

The Australian Shepherd is a working sheep and farm dog that might do quite poorly in an apartment. They are vigorous dogs with high intelligence that were bred to think and work. They require at the least, a properly fenced in enclosure and at the best, a farm to run and work. They form strong bonds with their family and demand a great deal of attention and time. They will follow their master from room to room in a house and want to ride in the car, help with chores, etc. If left alone for long periods of time, they may invent their own entertainment which can include destroying the furnishings or garden. They need to be properly socialized with children and pets and may nip at the heels of children. She is a very protective dog of both body and property.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Australian Shepherd is 20 to 23 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and from 50 to 65 pounds. The female should run about 18 to 21 inches to the withers and 40 to 55 pounds.
*Special Health Considerations. Some heartworm medications may be toxic to this breed due to a gene mutation.. Your veterinarian can test for this. She can suffer from canine hip dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), hereditary eye problems, hypothyroidism (sluggish thyroid gland which can result in weight gain), discoid lupus erythematosus (an autoimmune disease), cleft palate, seizures, von Willebrands disease (a problem with blood clotting), and patent ductus arteriosis (a circulatory abnormality).
*Grooming. Brush this breed often with a firm bristle brush and wash when necessary. She will shed quite a bit. Brushing will help keep your pets coat clean and healthy, help avoid tangles and help keep your house more free of shed hair. Brushing will also help you keep a closer eye on your pet health and strengthen your emotional bond with her. Her coat is of moderate length and medium coarseness. Be prepared to become real friendly with your vacuum cleaner if kept indoors. Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
*Life Span. The Australian Shepherd can live between 12 and 15 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
*History. The only working livestock breed actually developed in the western portion of America, although she does have some roots in Australia. She was developed from sheep dogs that were imported with flocks of sheep from Australia, France, Spain, New Zealand, Latin America and England during the late 1800 and early 1900 period, especially during the California gold rush. Australian Shepherds were popularized, especially in California, after World War II by horse shows, rodeos and movies.
*Registries:
ASCR Australian Shepherd Club of America
UKC United Kennel Club
NKC National Kennel Club
CKC Continental Kennel Club
APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
AKC American Kennel Club
*Category: Herding group.
*Terms To Describe The Breed: Intelligent, good natured, even disposition, good stamina, agile, muscular, balanced and devoted.
*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
He is a loyal companion.
Easy to train.
Excellent farm dog.
Easy to housebreak.
Eager to please.
Wants to be with their master constantly.
Makes a great family dog.
Her pretty coat comes in amazing colors.
*SPECIAL BAD POINTS
Needs lots of exercise.
Needs a job to do.
Wants to be with their master constantly.
Can be very territorial.
May bark at neighbors too much.
May become destructive if bored.
Can have health problems.
May shed copiously.
Can by shy, especially with strangers.
*Other Names Known By: The Aussie, wiggle-butt,

My aussie doing his tricks. He is really good!! I get this question A LOT! I use the “clicker” to pin point what exactly I want Maverick to do. When I first introduced Mav to the “clicker”, I gave him a treat for every click; I did this for about 3 minutes non stop until he realized that a click meant a good, positive thing. When I first start to teach him a new trick, it helps HIM to know what exactly he did right. If he finally does his new trick that I’ve been trying to get him to do, it takes to long for me to get a treat. By that time, he doesn’t know what he did right. Therefore, the clicker.

The Australian Shepherd is a working sheep and farm dog that might do quite poorly in an apartment. They are vigorous dogs with high intelligence that were bred to think and work. They require at the least, a properly fenced in enclosure and at the best, a farm to run and work.

They form strong bonds with their family and demand a great deal of attention and time. They will follow their master from room to room in a house and want to ride in the car, help with chores, etc. If left alone for long periods of time, they may invent their own entertainment which can include destroying the furnishings or garden. They need to be properly socialized with children and pets and may nip at the heels of children. She is a very protective dog of both body and property.

Approximate Adult Size

The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Australian Shepherd is 20 to 23 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and from 50 to 65 pounds. The female should run about 18 to 21 inches to the withers and 40 to 55 pounds.

Special Health Considerations

Some heartworm medications may be toxic to this breed due to a gene mutation. Your veterinarian can test for this. She can suffer from canine hip dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), hereditary eye problems, hypothyroidism (sluggish thyroid gland which can result in weight gain), discoid lupus erythematosus (an autoimmune disease), cleft palate, seizures, von Willebrand’s disease (a problem with blood clotting), and patent ductus arteriosis (a circulatory abnormality).

Grooming

Brush this breed often with a firm bristle brush and wash when necessary. She will shed quite a bit. Brushing will help keep your pets coat clean and healthy, help avoid tangles and help keep your house more free of shed hair. Brushing will also help you keep a closer eye on your pet health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her coat is of moderate length and medium coarseness. Be prepared to become real friendly with your vacuum cleaner if kept indoors. Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Life Span

The Australian Shepherd can live between 12 and 15 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

History

The only working livestock breed actually developed in the western portion of America, although she does have some roots in Australia. She was developed from sheep dogs that were imported with flocks of sheep from Australia, France, Spain, New Zealand, Latin America and England during the late 1800 and early 1900 period, especially during the California gold rush. Australian Shepherds were popularized, especially in California, after World War II by horse shows, rodeos and movies.

Registries

* ASCR Australian Shepherd Club of America

* UKC United Kennel Club

* NKC National Kennel Club

* CKC Continental Kennel Club

* APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.

* AKC American Kennel Club

Category

Herding group.

Terms To Describe The Breed

Intelligent, good natured, even disposition, good stamina, agile, muscular, balanced and devoted.

SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

* He is a loyal companion.

* Easy to train.

* Excellent farm dog.

* Easy to housebreak.

* Eager to please.

* Wants to be with their master constantly.

* Makes a great family dog.

* Her pretty coat comes in amazing colors.

SPECIAL BAD POINTS

* Needs lots of exercise.

* Needs a job to do.

* Wants to be with their master constantly.

* Can be very territorial.

* May bark at neighbors too much.

* May become destructive if bored.

* Can have health problems.

* May shed copiously.

* Can by shy, especially with strangers.

The Australian Shepherd is NOT one of the several breeds developed in Australia, as one would assume from the name. In actuality it was believed to have sprung out of the dogs which were used by the Basque shepherds of southern Spain. In 1875 Basque shepherds migrating to American shores brought specimens of the breed with them. It was at that time that the original strains of the breed came to be known in this country and later evolved into the breed now known and recognized by the American Kennel Club as the Australian Shepherd.

The Australian Shepherd is somewhat blocky in build, quite square looking, with no tail or docked tail. The coat is dense and double coated, stand off hairs are not part of the standard but many of the dog show exhibitors accentuate the coat by blowing it out to make it appear that coat has more “fluff’ than it actually has. The bone is moderate, with round feet and straight legs.

The colors are very specific for the show ring: blue, blue merle, red merle and all red. White may be found on the front and as a “collar”: around the neck but should not be found between the withers and the tail nor on the sides between the elbows and the back of the tail. The head of the Australian Shepherd is usually very pretty, as the fold over ears frame the skull beautifully and there is enough coat around the neck to make a “ruff” similar to that of the collie or the Shetland sheepdog.

In appearance this dog can be mistaken for a Shelty except that the observant onlooker will see that the body is blockier and heavier of bone than the Shelty and the head of the Shelty is more refined than that of the Australian Shepherd. Furthermore the “Aussie” has no tail.

The breed quickly became a favorite in the show ring and as a pet. It was not admitted to the American Kennel Club until 1993. Many of the fanciers of the breed have continued to strive to keep this breed true to the purpose for which it was originally bred, that of a sheep herding and guarding dog. The instincts of guarding are part of its nature and it is distrustful of strangers and will bark a warning, but should not attack nor threaten, so he makes a good watchdog. It has made its mark in the field of herding and working as a farm dog, plus agility, obedience, search and rescue and as a therapy dog and assistance dog.

It is a dog of high intelligence and great loyalty. This is a dependable dog, devoted to its owner and willing to work tirelessly on anything that is demanded of it. Because his genetic inheritance includes the desire to herd and guard the flock independently, this is a “thinking” dog. The dog should be alert and eager to follow the commands of its master. Anyone who is not able to give this dog a “job” will find that he can become a nuisance quickly, he needs to have a job to do.

His herding instinct also includes the desire to give chase and he needs to have a fenced in area and plenty of exercise. He makes a great pet and a good farm worker, being happy in urban or country environments.

The Australian Shepherd is a member of the Herding Dog Group. A medium sized dog known for his herding and guarding abilities. He is very family loyal and very intelligent. This dog needs a great deal of exercise, mental and physical. Could the Aussie be the right dog breed for you? Choosing the right breed dog is very important for you and for your dog. Here are the Australian Shepherd dog breed standards and other important information you should read prior to buying a new dog or puppy for your home.

History: Contrary to their names, the Australian Shepherds are believed to have originated in Spain. They were later brought to the United States and developed in California by an Australian. A misty confusion exists about their origin but it is presumed that this breed accompanied the livestock that was shipped to America in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. Because they were working dogs, farmers tried to make them better suited to the climatic variations by interbreeding them with the local dogs. The breeding was done mostly between native species from America as well as the English Shepherd breed.

The type of work the breed does: The Australian Shepherds like all other breeds of Shepherds are working dogs. They helped the farmers guard their livestock and cattle on vast farms. They are generally very protective in nature and serve as good guard-dogs, helping keep away unwanted or suspicious neighbors. They excel in several types of dog sports and can bring immense pride to their owner.

Physical Appearance: These dogs range in height between 18 to 23 inches and could weigh anything from 35 to 60 pounds with eight different colors combinations of red or blue merle, black and red. Distinctions of color are observed between each of these types. Their eye colors also differ and could be green, hazel, amber or even bi-colored. The tails are short bobbed or even docked with the country’s permit. Some breeders prefer to keep the tail long in order to show the breed ring on the tail. They have a double coat of fur and curled down ears.

Personality and temperament: This group of dogs is very energetic and friendly. They are very possessive about their owners and are very good at guarding the owner as well as his property. This particular trait can be particularly intimidating to children. However, in general it is very friendly with children and serves very well as family dogs. They are only too happy to show-off all the tricks they’ve mastered. They are very intelligent and quickly learn the ropes of whatever job they are entrusted with. When they do not have enough work, they get frustrated and hyper, indulging in barking and running around for no apparent reason.

Care: Australian Shepherds are very playful, fun-loving and intelligent in nature. They should preferably be kept in secured and fenced. They need a lot of daily activity to stay healthy and happy.

Living environment: The Australian Shepherd tends to have a high energy level and should be allowed to work and play. With the lack of enough activity it tends to get bored and frustrated. They love being with company especially with their owner and other people they hold close to their heart. They are also good travelers.

At a glance:

Breed Group: Herding Dog Group

Height: 18-23 inches

Weight: 35 – 50 pounds (male)

Color: Vary colored from blue, red or black merle usually with markings

Life Expectancy: 12-15 years

Average litter size: 6 – 9

Dog picture taken by Trick 68.

Dog picture taken by Phae.

To begin with we will give you some basic info on the breed and them move on to other areas of this excellent dog.

Breed group: Herding

Weight: male: 50-65; female: 40-55 lbs

Height: male: 20-23; female: 18-21 inches

Overview

The Australian Shepherd has its origin in North America were it was developed during the nineteenth century. It is not entirely sure where the “Australian” came from. The English Shepherd, Dorset Blue Shag, Cumberland Sheepdog, Scottish Collie, Glenwherry Collie, Bouvier des Flandres, and the Welsh Sheepdog were all breeds that were used to develop the Australian Shepherd. Most of the dogs that used to develop this breed came from Great Britain and Scotland. After the Second World Ward these dogs were often used in Western movies, in rodeos and on television shows. They also became very popular companions on farms and ranches.

Temperament

Anatolian Shepherds are extremely loyal dogs that are also used as guard dogs. This breed is extremely intelligent, and also very easy to train. They will also pick up new skills very quickly, and are not ideal for people with no previous dog ownership experience. Owners of these dogs should be natural leaders that will dominate so that the dog can learn appropriate behaviours. The Anatolian Shepherd is also a very courageous, calm and watchful dog – self-assured, but not aggressive. They can however be a bit wary of strangers. You will find these dogs to be very loving toward their families, but people they don’t know should be gradually introduced to them. In general these dogs will get along well with everyone, unless there is a reason for them to be suspicious of someone. This breed can however be tough on itself, and somewhat stubborn.

Care

Australian Shepherds are average to heavy shedding dogs, and will not be well suited to those suffering from allergies. This breed should be brushed on a weekly basis with a firm hair brush, and a thorough brushing is suggested every 6-8 weeks. It is also advised that these dogs are brushed just before they are bathed to prevent further matting. After these dogs are bathed, they should be blow dried until they are completely dry. If their coats are left damp, skin problems might be created.

Training

It is advised that training for these dogs begin at a very early age. Motivational training methods should be used on a consistent basis. These dogs will also do best in a loving, safe and fair training environment. This breed is very patient toward their owners, and very loyal toward their families. Australian Shepherd is natural protectors and will not need extra protection training. These dogs should get obedience training at a very young age as they will follow what they have learned early on in their lives. The Australian Shepherd should also be socialised as they tend to mature fairly slowly.

Health problems

Some of the major health concerns this breed has trouble with includes Cataracts, Collie Eye Anomaly, autoimmune disorders and hip dysplasia. These dogs are also at risk for some genetic eye defects such as ocular coloboma, iris coloboma, juvenile and senior cataracts and a detached retina. The Australian Shepherd is also very sensitive to ivermectin which is used in used in heartworm medicines.

Dog picture taken by Hastalavista.

Playing outside in the garden. Close encounter with a cat.

Dog picture taken by Velaia (ParisPeking).