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
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.
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