What You Should Know About Australian Shepherds

Australian shepherds actually originated in the United States, despite the name. In both countries, they are renowned for their herding skills with both sheep and cattle. The breed is reasonably well known by many people as it has featured in several Disney films. It is commonly associated with horses, western riding and rodeos.

The breed is highly valued by stock-men. They are versatile with tremendous energy and drive. They are used for search and rescue, detection, guide work and as therapy dogs. As a pet, it should be remembered that they are a working dog and need to be kept occupied. Because they are so keen and active, they excel at such activities as Frisbee, obedience, agility and fly-ball. They are easily trained and keen to please their owners.

These are medium sized dogs. They weigh anywhere from 40 to 90 pounds. They reach 18 to 26 inches at the shoulder in height. The latest fad is to breed teacup Australian shepherds. The base colors are black, red, and red- and blue-merle. The coat may be a solid color or the points may be tan. It is common to see white markings on the face and body.

The eye-color is most unusual. The term ‘ghost-eye’ was once used to describe the eyes. Any combination and hue of blue and brown is seen. One eye of each color is quite common. Bi-colored eyes occur with the eye being half-blue and half-brown. Merled eyes are a mix of swirled blue and brown.

Another distinctive feature is the bobbed tail which occurs in many of this breed. Some have half-tails or full tails. Docking is rarely carried out nowadays although once all Australian shepherds had bob tails. The hindquarters are very powerful with some dogs able to jump 4 feet high. Strong hips and legs also give them great acceleration.

These dogs have tremendous vitality and drive. A few are reserved and wary. They usually regard their home area as their own and will be protective of it, barking at anything untoward. They must be kept occupied and be given plenty of exercise. Some invent their own amusements if they become bored.

Its herding skills are well documented. It is not aggressive with stock. It drops to the ground instinctively if a cow should threaten to kick. It thinks for itself and is so easily trained that is often the breed chosen to help with commercial flocks of ducks and geese.

If Australian shepherds get too bored for too long, they will become destructive. They need plenty of space. It will enjoy learning tricks if there are no cattle for it to herd. With their good endurance traits, they make great running companions and trail dogs.

Learn more about how to choose and train Australian Shepherds today! You can get the information that will help you to train your Australian Shepherd more easily now.. This article, What You Should Know About Australian Shepherds is available for free reprint.