The Australian Shepherd, or “Aussie,” is frequently seen competing in agility or herding events with owners who like these games despite being known by many as the cowboy’s preferred herding dog.
Nature
Australian Shepherds are bright, determined, and vivacious. This breed often has a balanced temperament and is friendly. The Australian Shepherd might not be ideal for every household due to their herding instinct, but if you want an energetic dog who can train with you or work alongside you, this medium-sized working dog could be the right choice.
Trait
Australian Shepherds are sharp-witted working dogs with powerful instincts for guarding and herding. In fact, they have been observed herding anything from children to dogs to birds.
Australians need a lot of exercise since they are quite active. With their owners, they enjoy going on long walks or hikes, and they also make terrific running partners. Australian Shepherds excel in dog sports like dock diving, agility, obedience, and herding.
Life
12 to 15 years
Colour Collection
Black, blue merle, red, and red merle with tan points or white markings are among the possible coat colours for Australian Shepherds.
Hair fall
The Australian Shepherd has to have its waterproof, double-layer coat brushed once a week. They require additional brushing with an undercoat rake to remove dead hair during the shedding season.
Health
Although they do have some health issues, Australian Shepherds generally have good health. These include hip dysplasia, epilepsy, cataracts, and various types of cancer.
Breed History
The best herders in Europe were the ancestors of the Australian Shepherd. The Basques established a reputation as elite shepherds close to the Pyrenees Mountains, where the breed originated. The Basques began exploring the vast interior of the continent in the early 1800s in quest of fertile pastureland for cattle ranching. Eventually, they sailed east to the uninhabited Australian continent with their herding dogs in tow.
The Basques migrated to California in quest of better ranching territory after expanding their flocks. Ranchers in California adored the breed and gave it the moniker “Australian Shepherd” by misrepresenting their country of origin. Since then, they have been a staple of cowboy culture. But they have more than just the ability to work the land. Australian Shepherds are adaptable dogs that can be used as assistance dogs, therapy dogs, drug detectors, and search and rescue dogs.
