Australian
Shepherd
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 Description:
The Australian Shepherd is a well-traveled breed:
it originally came to Australia from Spain and
Andorra. The Basque herders left the area to seek
their fortunes in Australia where land was plentiful
and appropriate for sheep ranching. The herders
took their dogs with them where they continued
to prove their excellence as a herding dog for
all types of livestock. The breed came to the
United States when Americans heard of the quality
of wool of the Australian sheep and began to buy
them; imports were often accompanied by the smart,
little blue dog. The tail of the Australian Shepherd
is short: the pups are either born with naturally
bobbed tails, or breeders dock them shortly after
birth, although many fanciers no longer agree
with this practice. As can be expected, this naturally,
hard-working dog needs plenty of exercise.
Height:
The height for an Australian Shepherd is between
20 - 23" (50.8 - 58.4cm)
Weight:
The weight for an Australian Shepherd
is between 35 - 70 lbs (15.6 - 31.2 kg)
Coat Type:
The Australian Shepherd's coat is of medium-length
and requires minimal grooming. Colors include
black, red, blue merle or red merle and may have
white or tan markings.
Temperament:
The Australian Shepherd is very intelligent and
protective; it is capable of herding and guarding
all types of livestock. The Australian Shepherd
is also a loyal and faithful family pet.
Health Problems: There
are several eye problems which can affect Australian
Shepherds which are genetic and appear to be related
to merle breeding, problens such as Progressive
Retinal Atrophy (PRA) which leads to blindness,
Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA). Since these problems
can be detected early, CERF certification should
be done.
Classifications:
AKC: Group 7 - Herding Dogs
CKC: Group 7 - Herding Dogs
KC: Non-Sporting - Working Group
FCI: Not recognized
ANKC: Group 5 - Working Dogs
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