Australian Shepherd

Origins and History

The Australian Shepherd, despite its name, was developed in the United States in the 19th century. Early American settlers imported Basque‑type herding dogs from Spain and the United Kingdom to assist with livestock work in the western frontier. By the early 1900s the breed had become the preferred stock dog of ranchers in the Pacific Northwest, especially in Washington and Oregon. The breed was formally recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1991 and placed in the Herding Group.

General Characteristics

• Medium‑sized, well‑balanced, and athletic with a slightly longer than tall body.
• Intelligent, eager to please, and highly energetic; excels in obedience, agility, and herding trials.
• Originally bred for livestock herding; today commonly seen in dog sports, therapy work, and as an active family companion.

Physical Specifications

• Height (withers): Males 20‑23 inches (51‑58 cm); Females 18‑21 inches (46‑53 cm).
• Weight: Proportionate to height, typically 40‑65 lb (18‑29 kg) for both sexes.

Coat and Color

• Medium‑length, straight to slightly wavy, dense, water‑resistant double coat.
• Accepted colors: black, blue merle, red (liver), red merle; each may be with or without white markings and/or tan points. Eyes may be brown, blue, amber, hazel, or heterochromatic.

Temperament Considerations

Australian Shepherds possess a strong herding instinct and a high drive for mental stimulation. Their intelligence makes them quick learners, but they can become bored and develop undesirable behaviors if not adequately challenged.

Training Essentials

• Early, consistent socialization with people, animals, and varied environments.
• Minimum 1‑2 hours of vigorous exercise daily, including off‑lead work, agility, or herding games.
• Potential challenges: tendency to chase moving objects, need for mental enrichment, and occasional sensitivity to harsh corrections.

Daily Grooming

• Brush 2‑3 times per week with a slicker brush or undercoat rake to manage shedding.
• Bath only as needed; over‑bathing can strip natural oils.
• Trim nails regularly; brush teeth several times a week or use dental chews.

Show Preparation

• Begin a structured grooming routine 2‑3 weeks before the show: thorough brushing, hand‑stripping of excess undercoat, and a final bath 24‑48 hours prior.
• Clip the ears to the AKC standard (flat, with a slight feather), trim the tail if required by the show rules, and ensure the coat lies flat and glossy for optimal ring presentation.

Common Health Issues

• Hip dysplasia – recommend hip radiographs and OFA or PennHIP screening.
• Elbow dysplasia – evaluate with radiographs; monitor for lameness.
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) – DNA testing recommended for breeding stock.
• Multi‑drug resistance (MDR1) gene mutation – test especially before administering ivermectin or related drugs.

General Care

• Provide at least 1‑2 hours of physical activity daily to meet high energy needs.
• Feed a balanced diet appropriate for the dog’s age, activity level, and weight; monitor for obesity.
• Average lifespan 12‑15 years; regular veterinary wellness exams help maintain longevity.