Australian Shepherd
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- Dog Breed Group
- Herding Dogs
- Origin of Breed
- USA as a livestock herder
- Life Expectancy
- 14 to 16 years
- Color
- Blue merle (mottled blue-gray-black) red, red merle (patched or freckled red), or black. Eye and nose color vary.
- Coat
- Weather resistant, medium-length, straight to wavy double coat. Ears fold forward; tail hangs down.
- Exercise Needs
- Thrives on 4 energetic, active exercise periods totaling 2 hours per day. High Stamina.
- Temperament
- High energy levels. The Australian Shepherd is a very intelligent dog that excels in obedience training and dog sports. It is hi
- Good with Children
- Good with children and other dogs, but can be overprotective and quick to nip. Makes a great family pet and an excellent watchdo
- Grooming Needs
- Heavy shedder. Brush twice a week.
- Average Size - Male (in)
- 20-23
- Average Size - Female (in)
- 18-21
- Average Weight - Male (lbs)
- 35-70
- Average Weight - Female (lbs)
- 35-70
- Health Issues
- Hip dysplasia, eye problems such as juvenile cataracts and deafness.v
- Living Conditions
- Best suited to suburbs or rural regions.
Breed Description
The Australian Shepherd is a well-balanced dog of medium size and bone. He is attentive and animated, showing strength and stamina combined with unusual agility. Slightly longer than tall, he has a coat of moderate length and coarseness, with coloring that offers variety and individuality in each specimen. An identifying characteristic is his natural or docked bobtail. In each sex, masculinity or femininity is well defined. The Australian Shepherd is intelligent, primarily a working dog of strong herding and guardian instincts. He is an exceptional companion. He is versatile and easily trained, performing his assigned tasks with great style and enthusiasm. He is reserved with strangers but does not exhibit shyness. Although an aggressive, authoritative worker, viciousness toward people or animals is rare.
Breed Infobits
The Australian Shepherd is a natural athlete and is a joy to watch when it is working.
The Australian Shepherd was developed as a livestock herder.
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