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Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherd is a medium herding breed from United States also known as Aussie.

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Breed overview

Australian Shepherd is a medium herding breed from United States also known as Aussie.

Despite the name, this breed was developed in the United States, not Australia, for herding livestock on ranches.

People looking into Australian Shepherd usually prepare for Very High exercise needs, High grooming needs, 40–65 lbs • 18–23 in.

Aussie

History and origin

Australian Shepherd is tied to originating from United States, specifically Western United States, with sources often placing its development around 1840 CE.

Australian Shepherd is described here as placed in the Herding group and marked as an established breed.

Despite the name, this breed was developed in the United States, not Australia, for herding livestock on ranches.

Browse dog breeds from United States Browse more Herding breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
Herding
Size
Medium
Origin country
United States
Region
Western United States
Origin year
1840 CE
Weight
40–65 lbs
Height
18–23 in
Lifespan
12–15 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
5 / 5
Trainability
5 / 5
Good with children
4 / 5
Shedding level
4 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
Very High exercise needsHigh grooming needsChildren score: 4/5Trainability: 5/5

Coat and classification

Australian Shepherd is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

MediumDoubleWeather Resistant

Australian Shepherd is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Medium-sized herding dog
  • Often has merle coat pattern
  • May have heterochromatic eyes (different colors)
  • Moderate-length double coat, often with copper points

What this breed is known for

  • Despite the name, this breed was developed in the United States, not Australia, for herding livestock on ranches.
  • Known for their striking merle coat patterns and heterochromatic eyes (different colored eyes).
  • Highly intelligent, versatile, and energetic working dogs that excel in obedience, agility, and herding trials.

Health and care notes

Australian Shepherd is noted here for Very High exercise needs and High grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Eye Conditions
  • Epilepsy

Coat details: Medium, Double, Weather Resistant

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Australian Shepherd come from?

Australian Shepherd is closely associated with United States, especially Western United States in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Australian Shepherd get?

Typical size details for Australian Shepherd on this page are 40–65 lbs, 18–23 in, 12–15 years.

What is the Australian Shepherd known for?

Despite the name, this breed was developed in the United States, not Australia, for herding livestock on ranches.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Australian Shepherd reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.