Thinking about bringing an Aussie into your life? Here’s an overview of the breed’s history, temperament and care.
History
Despite the name, the Australian Shepherd was developed in the western United States. Its ancestors are believed to include herding dogs that arrived with shepherds and flocks imported from Australia in the 1800s, which is likely where the name came from. American ranchers refined the breed into a versatile stock dog that could handle sheep and cattle in rough country.
Aussies became widely known after World War II through Western horse culture, rodeos, films and television. The Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA) was founded in 1957, and the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1993 as part of its Herding Group.
Size and Appearance
- Height: males about 20 to 23 inches at the shoulder; females about 18 to 21 inches.
- Weight: males about 50 to 65 pounds; females about 40 to 55 pounds.
- Lifespan: typically 12 to 15 years.
- Coat: medium-length, weather-resistant double coat.
- Colors: blue merle, red merle, black and red, each with or without white markings and copper (tan) points.
- Eyes: brown, amber or blue, and sometimes one of each or a mix within the same eye.
Temperament
Aussies are loyal, energetic and eager to work. They are typically affectionate and playful with their families and more reserved with strangers, which makes them alert watchdogs. Their herding instinct is strong: some will try to herd children, other pets or even cars, so consistent training and plenty of outlets for that drive are important.
Exercise and Training
This is a high-energy breed that needs at least an hour or two of activity every day, plus mental challenges like training sessions, puzzle toys or dog sports. Aussies excel at herding, agility, obedience, rally, flyball and disc. Positive, reward-based training works best, and early socialization helps them grow into confident, well-mannered adults.
Grooming
The double coat sheds year-round and heavily during seasonal coat changes, usually in spring and fall. Brushing once or twice a week (more during shedding season) keeps the coat healthy and reduces loose hair around the house. Regular nail trims, ear checks and dental care round out the routine.
Health
Australian Shepherds are generally healthy, but like all breeds they can be affected by certain inherited conditions. Responsible breeders screen their dogs before breeding. Conditions to know about include:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia: screened with OFA or PennHIP evaluations.
- Eye conditions: including hereditary cataracts, Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), screened with eye exams and DNA tests.
- MDR1 drug sensitivity: a gene mutation that makes some dogs sensitive to certain common medications. A simple DNA test identifies it.
- Epilepsy: seen in the breed; ask about family history.
- Double merle risk: breeding two merle dogs together can produce puppies with deafness or vision problems, which is why responsible breeders avoid merle-to-merle pairings.
Ask any breeder for proof of health testing on both parents. You can look up many results on the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) website.