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Australian Shepherd dog breed
The Australian Shepherd is a medium, high-energy dog breed from United States, originally bred for herding livestock. It typically lives 12–15 years. It needs space and is easy to train.
A brainy, energetic herding dog from the American West that needs a job and lots of activity.
♥ Swipe on the Australian ShepherdQuick facts
- Breed type
- Purebred
- Origin
- United States
- Size
- Medium
- Energy
- High
- Bred for
- Herding livestock
- Lifespan
- 12–15 years
- Temperament
- Smart, active, loyal
- Exercise
- 100 min/day
- Grooming
- Medium
- Shedding
- High
- Training
- Easy
- With children
- Good
- Apartment
- No
Where the Australian Shepherd comes from
Despite the name, the Australian Shepherd was developed in the western United States in the 1800s. Basque shepherds who had come via Australia brought the dogs that became the breed, and ranchers shaped it into a tireless stock dog.
Personality and daily life
Intelligent, athletic and attached to their people. They can be reserved with strangers and sensitive to harsh handling.
Aussies are happiest with a task such as agility, frisbee or herding. A bored Aussie will herd the children and chew the furniture.
Exercise, grooming and health
Plan on 90 minutes or more of exercise plus training. The double coat sheds heavily and needs brushing a few times a week. Hip dysplasia, eye conditions and a gene sensitivity to some drugs (MDR1) occur.
Is a Australian Shepherd right for you?
Active households, sport enthusiasts and rural homes. Not suited to people who want a quiet life.
- Needs space, so not ideal for small apartments
- Easy to train, good for beginners
- Sheds a lot
Australian Shepherd questions answered
Is a Australian Shepherd good for apartments?
Not usually. The Australian Shepherd does best in a home with space and a yard.
Is a Australian Shepherd good with children?
Generally yes, especially with early socialisation. Supervise young children around any dog.
How much exercise does a Australian Shepherd need?
A Australian Shepherd needs about 100 minutes of exercise a day. Its energy level is high.
Does a Australian Shepherd shed a lot?
Shedding is high for the Australian Shepherd. Grooming needs are medium.
How long does a Australian Shepherd live?
A Australian Shepherd typically lives 12–15 years.
Is a Australian Shepherd easy to train?
Yes. The Australian Shepherd is generally easy to train and eager to learn.
Similar breeds
Profiles are general guides. Individual dogs vary, so always meet the dog and talk to a breeder, shelter or vet.