Despite the name, Australian shepherds was not developed in Australia. This breed originated in western United States where dogs were vital on the ranches to help with mustering sheep and cattle. They are associated in the public's mind with western riding, horses and rodeos. They have also featured in several Walt Disney films which has given them a higher profile than might otherwise be the case.
The breed is well regarded by ranchers and sheep-breeders. The same skills which make them such good herding dogs also see them excel at detection, search and rescue, guide duties and therapy dogs. They make very energetic pets with plenty of life and keenness. They train easily, are keen to please and will enjoy obedience trials, agility pursuits, Frisbee and fly-ball.
With a maximum weight of 90 pounds and a shoulder height of 26 inches, these are classed as medium sized. Of course some are smaller and teacup size is now available. Black and red solid-colored dogs are found; also red merle and blue merle. Tan points are common as are white patches and markings.
The eyes of this breed are very distinctive. They may have any shade of blue or brown eyes. The pale-colored eyes led to the nickname 'ghost eyes'. Each eye may be a different color and occasionally the one eye may be half-brown and half-blue. Some even have merled eyes which contain blue and brown pigment in a swirled pattern.
Short or bobbed tails occur naturally. However others have a half-tail or full tail. Pups not born with bobbed tails were once docked. The dogs have great power in the hindquarters with some jumping 4 feet in height. They can also accelerate very quickly.
Most are highly energetic and require plenty of activity and exercise. Some are reserved and cautious, barking to protect what it considers to be its property. They are intelligent and love to play, often inventing activities for themselves if they become bored.
It is valued for its herding skills. It has an ability to think for itself and is easy on stock. When cattle threaten to kick, the dog instinctively adopts a crouch position so the hoof goes over its head. Because of these factors and its ease of training, it is often chosen to work with less common livestock such as ducks and geese.
Australian shepherds can become destructive if they are not kept occupied. Having a large yard will help. With a high level of stamina, they make good companions for joggers. They also enjoy trail walks and rides. Because they are easily trained, they have no trouble mastering a variety of tricks.
The breed is well regarded by ranchers and sheep-breeders. The same skills which make them such good herding dogs also see them excel at detection, search and rescue, guide duties and therapy dogs. They make very energetic pets with plenty of life and keenness. They train easily, are keen to please and will enjoy obedience trials, agility pursuits, Frisbee and fly-ball.
With a maximum weight of 90 pounds and a shoulder height of 26 inches, these are classed as medium sized. Of course some are smaller and teacup size is now available. Black and red solid-colored dogs are found; also red merle and blue merle. Tan points are common as are white patches and markings.
The eyes of this breed are very distinctive. They may have any shade of blue or brown eyes. The pale-colored eyes led to the nickname 'ghost eyes'. Each eye may be a different color and occasionally the one eye may be half-brown and half-blue. Some even have merled eyes which contain blue and brown pigment in a swirled pattern.
Short or bobbed tails occur naturally. However others have a half-tail or full tail. Pups not born with bobbed tails were once docked. The dogs have great power in the hindquarters with some jumping 4 feet in height. They can also accelerate very quickly.
Most are highly energetic and require plenty of activity and exercise. Some are reserved and cautious, barking to protect what it considers to be its property. They are intelligent and love to play, often inventing activities for themselves if they become bored.
It is valued for its herding skills. It has an ability to think for itself and is easy on stock. When cattle threaten to kick, the dog instinctively adopts a crouch position so the hoof goes over its head. Because of these factors and its ease of training, it is often chosen to work with less common livestock such as ducks and geese.
Australian shepherds can become destructive if they are not kept occupied. Having a large yard will help. With a high level of stamina, they make good companions for joggers. They also enjoy trail walks and rides. Because they are easily trained, they have no trouble mastering a variety of tricks.
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