If you’re looking for an Intelligent, hardworking and versatile companion an Australian Shepherd puppy is the perfect choice
There are few things more incredible than watching an Australian Shepherd work a herd. Using nips, barks and a steady stare they do their job with ease and look for no greater reward than the love and praise of their owner. There’s no wonder why this breed has become so popular. They’re known for their exceptional intelligence, endless energy and tremendous versatility, which makes them ideal candidates for a number of jobs including guide dogs, police dogs and search and rescue work. They are also loyal, loving and eager to please, making them an ideal family companion. A medium size breed, Australian Shepherd males stand 20-23 inches and weigh 50-65 pounds while females stand 18-21 inches and weigh 40-55 pounds. They have a medium length double coat that can be straight or wavy and comes in a variety of colors including black and red, often with white markings and copper points.
History
Despite their name, this is an American breed, initially developed to herd livestock for ranchers and farmers in the West. The breed originated from Collie and Shepherd type dogs imported with sheep shipments from Australia in the 1840s, which is where they got their name. In the post-WWII years, as interest in Western riding, rodeos and popular movies and TV shows peaked, the Australian Shepherd enjoyed a boom in popularity. It wasn’t until 1993, however, that the American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed. Today the breed is as popular as ever, continuing to win over fans with their amazing herding abilities and lovable personality.
Temperament
Australian Shepherds are known for their keen intelligence, extraordinary energy and strong herding instinct. They are also loyal and protective and will develop a strong bond with their owners, making them a wonderful family pet. Bred to take a dominant role with livestock, they can easily transfer that instinct to their family and will require a strong hand, making them a poor choice for first time or timid owners. They may also exhibit that herding instinct with small children or other pets, incorporating nipping or chasing, but with early socialization that can be overcome and they can settle in nicely with all family members.
Environment
Because they are so high energy, Australian Shepherds require a good bit of space to run around. That means they are not a good choice for apartment living. They need at least a small yard to let them get a regular workout. They can be aloof with strangers and their protective streak and loyalty to their family makes them good watchdogs. That same strong bond with their owners can also make them prone to anxiety if left alone for long periods of time.
Exercise
Obviously, all of that extra energy means Aussie’s need a lot of regular exercise to keep them content. They generally require about a half hour to an hour of stimulating activity every day, which can include a run, a high octane game of Frisbee or some obedience or agility exercises. Obedience classes can help to curtail bad habits like nipping or chasing connected to their natural herding instinct. Fortunately, their exceptional intelligence means Aussie’s respond well to training, especially with positive reinforcement.
Grooming
Australian Shepherd’s have a medium-length water-resistant coat to help them tolerate all types of weather including temperature extremes. They shed year round and will shed more heavily in the spring as they lose their winter coat. You’ll need to brush their coat weekly, and perhaps more often during shedding season, in order to prevent matting. You’ll also want to pay special attention to the area behind the ears, which can be particularly prone to matting. When brushed regularly, your Aussie should only require bathing when he’s dirty, which is usually only a few times a year.
