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Australian Shepherd
The four most common colorings of Aussies are blue merle, red merle, black tri, and red tri. Aussies can come in many other colorings as well, such as solid red, or solid black; all can occur with or without white markings, tan (called "copper") points, or both. Dogs with tan and white along with the primary color are called tricolor. Dogs with white or copper only along with the primary color are called bicolor. Too much white on any Aussie is a serious flaw, because it is frequently accompanied by deafness and/or blindness, which can occur when two merles are bred together (the double merle) or when pigmentation doesn\'t cover the ears or eyes on any other breeding. A hallmark of the breed is a short bobbed or docked tail in countries where docking is permitted. Some Aussies are born with naturally short bobbed tails, others with full long tails, and others with natural partial bobs, where the tail is midlength and appears stubby. Most breeders dock the tails when the puppies are born.
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| Interesting Facts: |
| Temperament: | Generally the breed is an energetic dog that requires exercise and enjoys working, whether it is learning and practicing tricks, competing in dog agility, or any other physically and mentally involving activity. It is usually a sweet and affectionate dog who is faithful to its owners and may be good with children, although its overwhelming instinct to work may subvert its ability to function as a family dog. |
| Size: | Height: 20-23 inches
Weight: 50-65 lbs. |
| Living Conditions: | They are moderately active indoors and need a large yard to play around in. Not recommended for apartment life. |
| Origin | This breed was developed entirely in the US though the name is misleading. The breed was most likely from Spanish dogs that accompanied the Basque shepherds and hers of fine Merino shepe exported to both America and Australia in the early days of the colonies. |
| Health Issues: | This breed carries a blind/deaf gene. This may be expressed only in merle/merle crosses. Natural bobtail- to- natural bobtail breedings can result in some offsrping with serious spinal defects. Some major concerns: cataract, CEA. Minor conerns: CHD, nasal solar dermatitis, Pelger-Huet syndrome, iris coloboma. |
| Exercise | They breed needs plently of exercise to stay in shape. |
| Grooming | The coat needs little attention and is easy to groom. Brush occassionally with a firm bristle brush and bathe only when necessary. An average shedder. |
| Life Expectancy: | About 12-15 years |
| Average Cost | Approx. $600 |
| Recognition: | |
| Where To Buy?: | Find a list of dog breeders >> |
| Pet Supplies: | Find the hottest dog supplies >> |
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The Aussie is a medium-sized, robust, well-balanced, rustic dog. They are easy-going, and love to play. The are excellent companions for children who are loyal, courageous and affectionate. They are eager to please and have a sixth sense of what their owner wants. This breed is highly intelligent and easy to train. They are quiet workers and are not aggressive.
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