Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd is a medium-sized breed that is solidly built. They come in black, liver, red merle and blue merle with copper and/or white markings on the face, legs and chest. The coat can be long, but is easily maintained. The occasional brushing with a firm-bristled brush should take care of tangling and matting. The breed sheds on average.

This breed is active and should have a yard to play in. They are not suited for apartment life. They are energetic working dogs that require lots of exercise not just for physical health, but mental health as well. They are highly intelligent, and love a challenge. A brisk daily walk or jog is recommended, as they can become destructive and restless when sedentary.

As with other herding breeds, Australian Shepherds excel in many sports such as herding, Frisbee, dog agility and flyball. Aussies, as they are commonly called, may be trained to compete in AKC herding events or ASCA stock dog trials. Their strong legs and hips allow them to jump and run through hurdles and challenges.

Australian Shepherds can live as long as 15 years.

Aussies are high in energy, hence the need for plenty of exercise. At times, they can be calm and lazy, but most of the time they are working, competing or learning new tricks. They thrive in an environment where they are physically and mentally stimulated. They are kind and devoted to familiar people, and reserved when it comes to strangers. When treated well, Australian Shepherds are superb companions. They make for good watchdogs when it comes to ranch dwelling as they can be protective of their territory. They are intelligent and playful, so a bored and under-exercised dog could lead to destructive and restless behavior. They are sometimes called “velcro dogs” because of their need to be in close proximity with their owners.

The origin of the Australian Shepherd is still unknown, but it is said to have originated from Spain and was utilized by shepherds for herding purposes. However, scientific evidence points to American heritage.

The breed worked as a tireless sheepherder in the Rocky Mountains because of its adaptability to altitude. They were bred and exported as far west as California for their excellent herding skills.

Selective breeding made for fast, athletic, energetic and intelligent dogs that are obedient to their owners. They performed skills and stunts in several Disney films.

Merle-colored Australian Shepherds are at risk for blindness or deafness. Have the dog’s hearing checked soon after they are born. Major health concerns include cataracts and epilepsy, while minor health concerns include nasal solar syndrome, distichiasis, iris coloboma, hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia and retinal folds.

Breeders Domain offers a direct connection to quality, responsible Australian Shepherd Breeders in the United States and Canada. We have an extensive directory of Australian Shepherd Puppies for Sale and Australian Shepherd Breeders. The majority of our Australian Shepherd Breeders offer health guarantees and nationwide shipping of their puppies to approved homes. Breeders Domain is also an excellent source of information about the Australian Shepherd breed, general health concerns and photos of Australian Shepherd puppies and adults.