Australian Shepherds

The Australian Shepherd is an affectionate dog full of personality. The Australian Shepherd is not from Australia as the name implies. American Shepherds are thought to originate from the Pyrenees Mountains between Spain and France. The Australian Shepherd dog breed was used by Basque ranchers who moved to America from Australia. It is the association with these ranchers that have led many to believe that the Australian Shepherd originated in the United States. Prior to being called Australian Shepherds, these dogs were called Spanish Shepherd, Blue Heeler, Pastor Dog, Bob-Tail, New Mexican Shepherd, and California Shepherd.

This dog breed has two sizes, the miniature and the standard. The miniature Australian Shepherd is up to eighteen inches high and weighs twenty to forty pounds. Standard Australian Shepherds are medium size dogs. They are eighteen to twenty-three inches tall and weigh forty to seventy-five pounds. The Standard Australian Shepherd was accepted by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1991. The miniature Australian Shepherd has not yet been accepted.

Australian Shepherd dogs are energetic, playful, and intelligent. These dogs love interacting with their owners. An active dog owner who will exercise the Australian Shepherd with outdoor games of fetch and walk or run with the dog daily may find this dog breed well suited to the active lifestyle. These dogs generally get along well with children if the dogs are socialized with them.

The tail of the Australian Shepherd can be naturally bobbed, docked, or naturally straight as long as it is under four inches long. The coat of the Australian Shepherd has a medium texture and may be straight or wavy. The coloring can be black, red, blue merle, or red merle. The coats may have white markings with or without tan or copper points. Australian Shepherds shed heavily twice a year and may need more brushing during those times.

The average life span of an Australian Shepherd dog is twelve to fourteen years. This dog breed is susceptible to eye, heart, and skin problems. The dog may be prone to cataracts and glaucoma. They are also susceptible to allergies, epilepsy, and cancer.