The Australian Shepherd is an affectionate dog with many names. We also refer to it as an Aussie or an Australian sheepdog. Like other herding dogs, Australian Shepherds have a pack mentality and are therefore eager to learn and intelligent. It has long been considered a mixed breed due to its variation in build, size, and head type. Learn more about this athletic and versatile dog below.
Quick facts
Family friendly
Activity level
Fur care
Training needs
Clearing
Size
Facts about the breed
Australian Shepherds are devoted and energetic dogs who quickly and closely bond with their owners. If you want a dog that shadows you, an Aussie is perfect for you! They always want to be close to you, so don't be surprised if they wait behind the door for you when you leave a room, or sleep on top of you.
Moreover, we're not just dealing with a herding dog; it's also a guard dog. In other words, it takes good care of you and your family. When you think about it, these two characteristics – shadowing and protecting – are congruent. An Australian Shepherd is a loyal companion.
What can you expect as an Australian Shepherd owner?
Personality
Personality
Aussies are loyal, devoted, and outgoing dogs. Their work ethic is particularly impressive, something they have acquired through generations of working on ranches and farms around the world. They are zestful dogs with a "can-do" attitude, meaning they are resourceful and cheerful.
Activity level
Activity level
It is important to stimulate your Australian Shepherd. They are an energetic dog that is happiest when active and given tasks to perform. If you are active and spend much of your free time outdoors, an Aussie is an excellent choice.
Training
Training
An Australian Shepherd is willing to learn and cooperative, and quickly acquires information. Their intelligence, loyalty, and energy make them easy dogs to train. Therefore, you have a good starting point for training an Aussie. That said, you need to be patient and put a significant effort into the training. It also requires a routine. Aussies like predictability, and if you change the schedule, you should be prepared for them to take some time to adapt to it.
Health
Health
Weight and size
The height for male dogs varies between 51 and 58 cm, while they weigh between 16 and 32 kg. Females weigh the same. The weight of Australian Shepherds depends on build and sex. Females are 43 to 56 cm tall.
Lifespan
The lifespan of an Australian Shepherd is 13 to 15 years.
Hereditary diseases
Australian Shepherds are healthy dogs, but diseases can occur. The following diseases you should watch out for:
- Eye diseases: Cataracts, CEA (Collie Eye Anomaly) and PRA (progressive retinal atrophy). Learn more about treatment of eye diseases on A-Vet Small Animal Clinic's website.
- Hip dysplasia.
- Elbow dysplasia.
- Epilepsy.
Australian Shepherds also occasionally have a sensitivity to the medicine MDR1, which is worth noting.
Fur
Fur
Aussies can have both wavy and straight coats, but the length is consistent. The coat is medium length, but doesn't require as much grooming as you might think. Brush through the coat twice a week to remove dead hair. This is sufficient maintenance for your dog's coat. It is also important to bathe it when it gets dirty, using good shampoo and conditioner, and to dry it thoroughly after a bath. Feel free to bathe the dog more often during shedding season.
Food and nutrition
Food and nutrition
It is important to choose high-quality dog food . Routines are also important for Aussies, but can of course vary between dogs. If you are in doubt about how to feed your Australian Shepherd, you can contact your veterinarian. We have a clinic in Larvik that is always ready to help you.
Australian Shepherd
When acquiring an Australian Shepherd, it is essential that you choose a safe and reliable breeder. The breeder must be able to provide information on breeding, family history, and illnesses. Unfortunately, we see several cases of breeders who do not conduct their breeding responsibly, and who sell puppies with challenges or illnesses. We want to prevent you from contributing to illegal dog trade. Therefore, conduct sufficient research before purchasing an Australian Shepherd and ensure you are informed before agreeing to a purchase.
You can find more information about Aussies at the Norwegian breed club for Australian Shepherds. It is also worth knowing that an Australian Shepherd can cost up to NOK 20,000.
Anbefalt neste steg
Nyttig til hunden du vurderer
Når du har funnet en rase som passer livsstilen din, er neste steg å se på fôr, utstyr og hverdagsprodukter som gjør hundelivet enklere.