About Australian Shepherds

WHAT IS AN AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD?

Over the past few years, America seems to have noticed one its finest natives the Australian Shepherd, affectionately known to its fans as the "Aussie." The handsome Aussie suddenly seems to be everywhere we look in advertising, televised canine sporting events, and out in public. At a glance the medium size, high intelligence, willingness to obey, athleticism, and beauty of the Australian Shepherd seem to make him an ideal canine companion. In the right environment, the Aussies is, as his many fans proclaim, "aussome." But before you decide to get an Aussie, please read on. The Australian Shepherd is not for everyone.

The ideal Australian Shepherd ranges in size from 18 to 23 inches in height and 35 to 70 pounds, although some individuals are slightly smaller or larger. Females generally are smaller (18 to 21 inches) than males (20 to 23 inches), and males and females should appear masculine and feminine respectively. The Aussie carries a moderately long double coat on the body, with smooth hair on the head and face. Males are adorned with a heavier mane and ruff. The outer coat should be straight or wavy, although curly coats show up on occasion. The downy undercoat is short and dense, and protects the skin from scratches and the elements. Aussies come in four colors black, blue merle, red, and red merle with or without white and copper trim.

Aussies are extremely athletic and agile, and demonstrate tremendous stamina, strength, and courage. The Aussie is known for its delightful sense of fun, and is commonly called "wriggle-butt" for the way it wags its entire body right down to the natural or docked bob-tail. Bred to be a working dog with strong herding and guarding instinct, the Australian Shepherd needs training, lots of exercise, and a job to do. The Aussie must have activities to engage his mind and body if you don't provide them, he'll find some for himself, and you probably won't like his idea of fun!

From The Owner's Guide to the Australian Shepherd

by Sheila Webster Boneham, Ph.D.

PERSONALITY

The Australian Shepherd is a super high energy, extremely intelligent dog. On the face of it, that sounds perfect and in the right place, the Aussie is as perfect as a dog can be. In the wrong environment, the Aussie is a nightmare.

The Aussie's temperament is a direct result of its heritage. A working dog needs to follow direction but also think and act independently when necessary. He needs to be able to work long hours. He needs to be able to solve problems. The great intelligence of these dogs, necessary to out-think and control livestock, can be a problem when left untrained and unused. The Aussie needs something to do with his mind as well as his body.

IF YOU STILL WANT AN AUSSIE

Please take your time and do your homework before you rush out an get an Aussie. Not all Aussies are created equal, and you want a dog that you can live with, not one with a faulty temperament or poor health. Take your time to find the right dog from the right breeder or rescue group ~ you'll be glad you did.

My article How to Find the Dog of Your Dreams will give you some basic information on assessing breeders. For more in-depth discussions, consider reading my books, The Complete Idiot's Guide to Getting and Owning a Dog (Alpha Books, 2002), and The Owner's Guide to the Australian Shepherd (T.F.H. Publications, 2000). You don't have to buy them ~ check your public library. They are also available from local bookstores, or on line at sheilaboneham.com.

Here are some links to other web sites with more information to help you in your search.

General Information about the Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA)

United States Australian Shepherd Association (USASA)

American Kennel Club (AKC)

United Kennel Club (UKC)

Canadian Kennel Club (CKC)

Breeders

National and local breed clubs maintain lists of breeders. Heidi Mobley has an extensive list of breeder web sites at Western Hills: Links

Wherever you find breeders to contact, be cautious! A flashy web site and lots of champions do not make a person a responsible breeder, and do not mean her dogs are sound. Be sure to see proof of all claims made on web sites. Find other people who have bought puppies or dogs from the breeder, and ask them about their experience. Do your homework!