Australian Shepherds are medium-sized, highly intelligent dogs. They have their natural herding instincts, muscular builds, and exceptional agility. Originally bred as working dogs, they possess a strong drive to complete tasks and please their owners. This breed thrives on activity and mental stimulation, making them ideal companions for those who can provide plenty of both.
Physical Characteristics
Australian Shepherds stands between 18–24 inches tall and weighs between 40–65 pounds. Generally male shepherds are larger than female shepherds. Their tails can be naturally bobbed or full-length, although most Aussie puppies have their tails docked at a young age—a practice that remains controversial. Tail docking is sometimes performed to prevent injuries in working dogs. However, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AMVA) opposes docking solely for cosmetic purposes.
Caring for Australian Shepherds
Australian Shepherds are known for their high energy levels and need to stay busy. These dogs are smart, loyal, and typically friendly, although they can be cautious around strangers until they warm up. Due to their herding background, Aussies often have a strong prey drive and enjoy activities like fetch and Frisbee. However, this drive can also lead them to chase moving objects such as children, cats, cars, or even bicycles. Therefore, if you adapt a dog of this breed, socialize him or her early to ensure that they can live harmoniously with pets and children.
It’s crucial for pet parents to be mindful of their Australian Shepherd’s joint and hip health to maintain mobility throughout their lives.
Health Concerns for Australian Shepherds
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Australian Shepherds are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 12–15 years. However, they are prone to certain health issues. They get many inherited health issues.
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
Hip and elbow dysplasia are common hereditary conditions in Australian Shepherds. These conditions occur when the joints develop improperly, leading to malalignment, osteoarthritis, and pain. It’s essential that breeders conduct certified screenings for these genetic conditions to reduce the risk of passing them on. When purchasing an Aussie puppy, ensure that the parents have been screened through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or PennHIP. For those who adopt an Australian Shepherd or lack parent documentation, it’s still advisable to screen the dog for dysplasia. Dogs with these conditions may require special care, including medications, joint supplements, and in some cases, surgery to improve mobility.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
PRA is a group of degenerative eye diseases that affect the photoreceptors in a dog’s retina, leading to gradual vision loss and eventually blindness. This condition is inherited and typically presents in dogs between 3–9 years old, although an early onset form can affect puppies. While PRA isn’t painful, it’s incurable, and dogs diagnosed with this condition should not be bred. Despite the vision loss, dogs can still lead happy lives by relying on their other senses.
Hereditary Cataracts
Cataracts, another common eye issue in Australian Shepherds, occur when the lens of the eye becomes clouded, impairing vision. This condition is hereditary and usually develops in dogs between 1–5 years old. If left untreated, cataracts can lead to blindness or glaucoma. Surgery is the only effective treatment, and a veterinary ophthalmologist can determine if it’s appropriate for your dog.
Iris Coloboma
Iris coloboma is another inherited ocular condition that affects Australian Shepherds. It occurs when the iris fails to develop properly, leading to either a too-small or too-large iris. A small iris generally causes no significant issues, but a large iris can lead to light sensitivity and discomfort. In severe cases, dog goggles may be used to reduce light exposure. Breeding pairs should be certified by a veterinary ophthalmologist to ensure normal eye health, with results recorded through the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF).
Epilepsy
Primary epilepsy is an inherited seizure disorder in Australian Shepherds. It comprises an abnormal electrical activity in the brain. While there is no genetic test to identify carriers, dogs with this condition may require lifelong medication to manage their symptoms.
Multidrug Resistance Mutation (MDR1)
MDR1 is a genetic mutation affecting how an Australian Shepherd’s body processes certain medications. Dogs with this mutation are more sensitive to drugs commonly used for flea and tick prevention, heartworm prevention, and cancer treatment, potentially leading to severe side effects. A DNA test can detect the MDR1 gene, allowing veterinarians to recommend safer medication alternatives.
Deafness
Deafness in Australian Shepherds is often linked to coat color genes, particularly in dogs with two merle-colored parents. Dogs with extensive white coloration on their head or ears are at a higher risk. A BAER (Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response) test can determine if your dog is deaf.
Lymphosarcoma
Lymphosarcoma, a type of cancer, occurs slightly more often in Australian Shepherds. This disease involves abnormal lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) and often presents as swollen lymph nodes. While serious, lymphosarcoma is one of the most treatable cancers in dogs, with chemotherapy often yielding positive results.
Hemangiosarcoma
Hemangiosarcoma is a particularly aggressive cancer with a higher incidence in Australian Shepherds. It typically presents as a bleeding tumor in the abdomen, affecting organs like the spleen or liver. Its symptoms are lethargy, weakness, collapse, and pale gums. Treatment usually involves surgery and chemotherapy, but even then, the prognosis is poor, with an average survival time of six to nine months.
Nutrition for Australian Shepherds
It is important that you feed Australian Shepherds with a high-quality diet approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). Fresh water should be available at all times. Aussies with jobs or high activity levels may require a higher protein and fat diet, often labeled as “performance” or “sport.” You may always consult your veterinarian when selecting a diet.
Feeding Guidelines
You may have a controlled feeding schedule over free feeding to monitor appetite and control intake. Highly food-motivated Aussies may benefit from slow feeder bowls to prevent them from eating too quickly. Nevertheless it can lead to gastronomy issues in your dog.
Amount to Feed
The quantity of food an Australian Shepherd needs depends on their age, activity level, and the type of food. You may feed your puppies with a standard puppy food until they reach maturity, around 12–16 months old. Adult Aussies with high energy demands may need a performance diet. Some shepherds are prone to weight gain. They should have their dietary needs regularly reassessed.
Nutritional Supplements
Due to their active nature, Australian Shepherds may benefit from joint supplements as they age to prevent osteoarthritis. Supplements for eye health might also be advisable, given their predisposition to certain ocular conditions. However, always consult your vet before introducing any supplements.
Behavior and Training
Australian Shepherds are loyal , intelligent and are strong characters. While many are friendly, some may sniff around strangers but will typically warm up with proper introductions. You have to socialize them as early as you can in order to prevent misbehaviours with children, cats, and other dogs.However, their natural herding tendencies may still lead them to try to herd small animals and children.
Training Tips
Australian Shepherds require consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Without these outlets, they may develop destructive behaviors like digging and chewing. Aussies respond well to positive reinforcement and can excel in advanced obedience training. However, you have to avoid high-intensity exercise until they reached enough maturity to protect their joints.
Fun Activities
Australian Shepherds thrive in activities that challenge their minds and bodies. Let your involve in your Aussie in agility training, herding trials, flyball, advanced obedience, hiking, fetch, and long walks !
Grooming Guide
Australian Shepherds have a double-layer, water-resistant coat in various colors and patterns, including red merle, blue merle, red, and black. They got brown or blue eyes with a stunning beauty.
In terms of skin and coat care ,regular brushing is necessary to keep their coat free of mats and tangles, which can lead to skin infections. They have an active lifestyle. So you may give them frequent baths. But it’s important not to shave their double coat, as it protects them from both heat and cold.
In terms of eye and ear care, regular checks for excessive discharge or changes in appearance are crucial, to detect eye issues. Frequent ear cleanings are also necessary, especially after baths, to prevent infections from dirt or moisture buildup.
Conclusion
Owning an Australian Shepherd is a rewarding experience that comes with responsibilities. These dogs require a significant amount of physical and mental stimulation, along with regular grooming and a vigilant eye on their health. An Australian Shepherd will be a loyal, loving, and energetic companion for many years provided that you give them enough care , attention and love unconditionally.