New Dog World: Australian Shepherd Dog: Friendly Companion Dog

Saturday 29 March 2014

Australian Shepherd Dog: Friendly Companion Dog

Breed: Australian Shepherd

AKC Breed Group: Herding

Other Registries: ANKC (Working); CKC (Herding); FCI (Sheepdogs); KC (Pastoral); UKC (Herding)

Weight: Male: 50-65; Female: 40-55 lbs

Height: Male: 20-23; Female: 18-21 inches

Color: Blue Merle, Black, Pink Merle, or Crimson

Origin: United States

Australian Shepherd Overview

The precise origin of the Australian Shepherd is unknown. The breed that is loved and cherished today was developed exclusively within the United States. The Australian Shepherd has an innate versatility that makes them helpful on ranches and farms as a herding dog, retriever and watchdog. They are typically known as “The Aussie”.

Australian Shepherd Characteristics

The most distinguishing feature of the Australian Shepherd is the natural or docked bobtail. The eyes of this dog breed come in a variety of colors, including combinations of blue, amber, hazel and brown. Australian Shepherd’s are vigorous and athletic dogs.

Australian Shepherd Temperament

This dog breed is intelligent and loyal. The Australian Shepherd is highly energetic and thrives on having a job to do. They are intense dogs with incredible endurance. When given a task, the Australian Shepherd will seldom give up until it is completed. The herding instinct of the Australian Shepherd can be problematic in the home environment as they tend to herd everything that moves. The Australian Shepherd is reserved and cautious with strangers, but once accepted they are extremely friendly. This breed is confident and protective, and thrives on human companionship. The Australian Shepherd generally gets along well with children and is usually not aggressive towards other dogs and pets.

Australian Shepherd Care

This dog breed requires minimal grooming. An occasional brush with a firm bristle brush will usually suffice. The Australian Shepherd is a seasonal shedder and they require more intensive grooming during these periods. The Aussie is prone to various health issues. Their merle coloration carries a blind/deaf factor and the natural bobtail makes this breed prone to spinal defects. Additionally, this breed is prone to epilepsy, hip dysplasia, and cataracts.

Australian Shepherd Coat

The coat of the Australian Shepherd is striking and diverse. The hair of this breed is straight to wavy, of moderate length and weather resistant. The Australian Shepherd has a double coat and the under coat sheds twice a year. This breed is a moderate shedder. The coat of the Australian Shepherd comes in four colors.

Australian Shepherd Training

This dog breed is simple to train. The Australian Shepherd will benefit from early socialization and basic obedience training. It is important that they know who their master is or they may try to take control. The Australian Shepherd requires constant and effective direction. They are highly intelligent dogs who find repetitiveness boring.

Australian Shepherd Activity

This dog breed requires an above average amount of exercise. A daily walk is insufficient. The Australian Shepherd thrives on running, herding and actively taking part in household activities. This breed is at their best with substantial social interaction and a task to do. Australian Shepherds are not recommended for apartment living. This breed is reasonably lively indoors and best suited to a non-sedentary owner. A reasonably sized, secure yard or a rural environment will satisfy their exercise needs.