Facts about Australian Shepherd Puppies

It was developed in the early part of the 20th century and was used primarily for herding and general farm work. Its other "talents" include police search and rescue, narcotics detection and watchdog duty. It also excels at competitive obedience and performing tricks.

If you are wondering about the "Australian" part of the breed name, here is an explanation...

The Australian Shepherd was developed from dogs that came to the United States with Basque shepherds that accompanied sheep that were being imported from Australia.

Over the years, the breed became well known to the general public through rodeos, horse shows and television movies.

Physical Characteristics of an Australian Shepherd

This is a medium-size dog. Don't confuse it with a Miniature Australian Shepherd.

It has a body that is longer than it is tall. The eyes are almond-shaped and can be brown, blue or amber. The ears are triangular in shape and set high. The tail is usually docked (sometimes it's naturally bobbed) and should not exceed 4 inches.

The slightly wavy or straight medium-length coat is weather resistant and consists of an undercoat and an outer coat. It's feathered at the backs of legs, thighs and neck. The density of an undercoat will vary with climate.

The coat can be blue merle (marbled black and gray), red merle (marbled red and silver), black or red. There can also be white markings and tan points.

Temperament

The Australian Shepherd is a very intelligent dog with even-tempered personality.

It's very loyal to its family but wary with strangers. This wariness makes it a good watchdog.

Aussies are playful, fun loving and gentle with humans. They get along well with other dogs and love children.

Like a lot of herding breeds, it may try to herd people by nipping at their feet. Children are especially vulnerable. Though annoying, this behavior is harmless.

They were bred to work and, with nothing to do, may resort do destructive behaviors. Some dogs may be too energetic and make bad pets.

Best Owner / Living Conditions

This breed is not suited for an apartment lifestyle.

It requires an active owner in a suburban setting, preferably with a large fenced yard.

Some Australian Shepherd breeders will interview prospective owners to make sure this is the right breed for them.

Activity and Exercise

The Australian Shepherd is a very active breed. It requires not only plenty of exercise but some kind of a job to do. The busier it is, the fewer problems you will have.

Allow your pet to play and run off leash in a safe place.

If your yard is not fenced, consider getting an electronic dog fence. There are a lot of systems that are cheap (a lot cheaper than a physical fence), easy to install and will keep your pet well protected.

If you are into jogging or bicycle riding, take your pet along (always on leash). He will enjoy the activity and, at the same time, get plenty of exercise.

Grooming

The Australian Shepherd is easy to take care of.

It's an average shedder and, unlike many other breeds, does not require daily brushing. Brush 2 to 3 times per week.

Wash only when necessary and make sure to brush thoroughly when done.

Health Concerns

Like all dog breeds, the Australian Shepherd is susceptible to complications caused by parasites such as dog ticks, fleas, and puppy worms, including tapeworms, roundworms, and heartworms.

Other common health problems include back problems, hip dysplasia, vision problems, and PRA. To learn more about dog diseases and health care, visit dog health problems.

To reduce the risk of the above and many other health problems, buy only from reputable Australian Shepherd breeders (visit dog breeders to learn how to identify responsible dog breeders).

No matter how small the risk of health problems is, any puppy may get sick or injured. Many health problems will require an immediate attention from your Vet, but there are many others that will not, and you may handle them on your own.

To save time and money, learn how to diagnose and treat dog health problems that don't require your Vet's attention.

Life Expectancy

The average life expectancy for an Australian Shepherd puppy is between 12 and 14 years.

Did you ever consider adopting your next pet?

If this is the breed you are interested in, and adoption appeals to you, consider contacting your local Australian Shepherd rescue. There are thousands of pets waiting for a loving home and, yes, it's possible to adopt a purebred dog.