Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd is easy going, highly intelligent and very affectionate. They are very playful dogs that are excellent with children. Being naturally protective, they are somewhat wary of strangers; although they are not usually aggressive with other dogs. And, unlike other herding dogs, they do not bark much. But, they do share the same tendency to nip at the heels of unsuspecting people. They are eager to please and easy to train, making them excellent seeing-eye dogs, as well as therapy and police dogs.

Aussies need vigorous exercise, and therefore are not particularly suited for apartment life. They become very destructive if bored, so a large yard is a necessity.

The Australian Shepherd has a distinct, wavy double coat that is seen in black, blue merle, red, or red merle. This medium-textured coat may also have white and tan markings. They are average shedders and need only minimal brushing. Both sexes have a naturally docked tail and mane; but the mane is more pronounced in males.

One of their most unusual features are their eyes; they are seen in a myriad of colors and color combinations, ranging from various shades of brown to blue, hazel and amber.

This shepherd is a medium sized dog that stands between 18 and 23 inches and weighs between 40 and 65 pounds. Most live between 12 and 15 years, and are prone to hip dysplasia and hereditary eye disease. Litters generally have between 6 and 9 pups.