Australian Shepherd

AKC & CKC Herding Group

Australian Shepherd with distinctive merle coat

Is This the Right Breed for You?

✔ Excellent Match For

✔ Highly active individuals or families who enjoy outdoor activities
✔ People interested in dog sports like agility, obedience, or herding
✔ Experienced dog owners who can provide mental stimulation
✔ Those who want an intelligent, trainable working partner

• Extremely versatile: Excel in nearly all dog sports and working roles.

• Highly trainable: Eager to learn and work with their owners.

• Loyal companions: Form strong bonds with their families.

✖ Consider Carefully If

✖ You prefer a low-energy, couch-potato type of dog
✖ You have limited time for exercise and mental stimulation
✖ You're a first-time dog owner (they require experienced handling)
✖ You dislike regular grooming (they shed heavily seasonally)

• High exercise needs: Require 60-90 minutes of vigorous activity daily.

• Mental stimulation required: Bored Aussies become destructive.

• Herding instincts: May nip at heels or try to herd children/pets.

Owner Suitability

Australian Shepherds are among the most intelligent and energetic breeds you can own. They thrive when given a job to do—whether it's herding, agility, or advanced obedience. Without sufficient physical and mental exercise, they will invent their own (often destructive) entertainment. Their herding instincts are strong, so expect them to try to organize your household, including children and other pets. Early socialization is crucial to prevent shyness or reactivity. They're incredibly loyal but can be reserved with strangers. If you can meet their substantial needs, you'll have an exceptionally capable and devoted companion who can excel at virtually anything you teach them.

Stats:

Height: 18-23 inches
Weight: 40-65 pounds
Coat: Medium length, weather-resistant double coat
Colors: Blue merle, red merle, black, red (all with or without white/tan markings)
Lifespan: 12-15 years

Origin & History

The exact origins of the Australian Shepherd are uncertain. Some think that the breed came to the United States with Basque shepherds from the Pyrenees region between France and Spain. Some think that the breed has its origins in the dogs that arrived with shipments of sheep from Australia during the Gold Rush in the 1840s. These would likely have been collie/shepherd-type dogs of British origin.

Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd was developed in the United States during the 19th century as a ranch and herding dog. These intelligent dogs became indispensable to American ranchers for their ability to work livestock, particularly sheep. Their popularity grew after World War II when they became associated with rodeos and horse shows.

Today, Australian Shepherds excel in various dog sports and remain valued working dogs while also being beloved family companions for active households.

Traits:	3	4	5
Energy: Very high; requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation.			✓
Easy To Train: Highly intelligent and eager to please; excels in obedience.			✓
Grooming: Moderate; regular brushing needed to control shedding.	✓
Family Dog: Excellent with children when properly socialized; protective.			✓
Watchdog: Excellent; naturally protective of home and family.		✓
Beginner Friendly: Best for experienced owners who can meet exercise needs.	✓
Prey Drive: Strong; may chase small animals due to herding instincts.		✓
Barking: Moderate; may bark to alert or when bored.	✓
Good with other dogs: Yes, if properly socialized	✓

Health Considerations

Hip Dysplasia: Common in many medium-large breeds
Eye Problems: Including cataracts and Collie Eye Anomaly
Epilepsy: Higher incidence in the breed
MDR1 Gene Mutation: Sensitivity to certain drugs
Autoimmune Disorders: Various conditions including thyroid issues
Cancer: Higher than average cancer rates

Please check the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) and parent breed clubs for health information.

Glossary of general canine health conditions.