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What is an Australian Shepherd?

Kirsten C. Tynan
Kirsten C. Tynan

An Australian shepherd, sometimes shortened as Aussie, is a highly intelligent and energetic dog. It was originally bred as a working dog to herd livestock and assist in other ranch and farm activities. This herding dog typically uses its physical presence and bark to move and direct livestock. Eye contact or grip may be used with reluctant members of the herd or in other challenging circumstances.

While the Australian shepherd breed was originally developed to perform tasks on farms and ranches, dogs of this breed have been utilized in a variety of other working environments. Australian shepherds are often used in police work such as narcotics detection and search and rescue operations, and are sometimes even used as sled dogs. Due to their amiable temperament, they may also act as service dogs for the disabled or as therapy dogs in nursing homes, hospitals, disaster areas, and other locations.

Australian shepherds were bred to manage cattle and other livestock.
Australian shepherds were bred to manage cattle and other livestock.

In spite of its name, livestock producers in the western United States actually developed the Australian shepherd breed. The breed’s ancestors are not known with certainty; however, it is commonly speculated by authorities on the breed to have originated from one of three locations. These include the Pyrnees Mountains in Europe, the British Isles, or Australia as descendants of dogs brought to the United States by Basque shepherds in the 1800s. Regardless of the location of the breed’s ancestors, it is generally agreed that the modern development of the breed took place in the United States.

The official standard for the Australian shepherd breed is maintained by the American Kennel Club (AKC), which recognized it in 1991 and classifies it in the herding group. This standard specifies an ideal height of 20–23 inches (51–58 cm) for males and 18–21 inches (46–53 cm) for females. Typical Australian shepherd males range from 50–65 lb (23–30 kg) while females typically weigh 40–55 lb (18–23 kg). Colorations acceptable according to the AKC standard include black, blue merle, red, and red merle. Merle is a mixed color scheme with blue merle being a patchwork of blue and gray and red merle being a patchwork of red and either silver or buff.

An Australian shepherd with significant amounts of white coloration is disqualified by the AKC standard. Such dogs are typically produced by the mating of two Australian shepherds with merle coloration, thereby inheriting two copies of the recessive gene for such coloration. This genetic heritage correlates with an increased risk of blindness or deafness, which is undesirable to a healthy breed.

There are several other health concerns associated with the Australian shepherd breed. Eye disorders include cataracts, eyelashes growing inward which can scar the cornea, and the birth defect called collie eye anomaly that may result in a variety of vision problems. Autoimmune diseases to which Australian shepherds are susceptible include diseases of the thyroid and troublesome skin conditions. Skin problems include demodetic mange, typically resulting in patches of hair loss, and discoid lupus, which generally manifests as sores around the nose. Hip dysplasia may also be inherited and may result in irregularities in the dog’s gait earlier in life and arthritis as it ages.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of the Australian Shepherd?

The Australian Shepherd, despite its name, originated in the western United States, not Australia, during the Gold Rush in the 1840s. They were bred for their herding skills and are believed to have been developed from a variety of shepherd dogs imported with flocks of sheep from Australia, hence the name.

What are the typical characteristics of an Australian Shepherd?

Australian Shepherds are known for their intelligence, energy, and work ethic. They are medium-sized and muscular, with a coat that can be black, blue merle, red, and red merle. They often have distinctive eyes that can be blue, brown, or amber. Their agility and trainability make them excellent working dogs and family pets.

How much exercise does an Australian Shepherd need?

Australian Shepherds require a significant amount of physical exercise and mental stimulation due to their high energy levels. It's recommended that they get at least 30-60 minutes of vigorous activity daily, along with opportunities for play and problem-solving to keep them engaged and prevent boredom.

Are Australian Shepherds good with children and other pets?

Australian Shepherds can be great with children and other pets, especially if socialized from a young age. They are protective and may herd children gently, reflecting their working heritage. However, their herding instinct can sometimes lead to nipping at heels, so it's important to train and supervise interactions.

What are some common health concerns for Australian Shepherds?

Australian Shepherds are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they're prone to certain health conditions. These can include hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and hereditary eye issues such as cataracts and Collie Eye Anomaly. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian and genetic testing of breeding animals can help manage these risks.

How do you train an Australian Shepherd?

Training an Australian Shepherd requires consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement. They are highly intelligent and learn quickly, but they also need clear boundaries and a variety of tasks to keep them interested. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial, and they excel in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding trials.

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    • Australian shepherds were bred to manage cattle and other livestock.
      By: branex
      Australian shepherds were bred to manage cattle and other livestock.