Australian Shepherd
- Working Dog
- Agile
- Acrobatic
- Energetic
- Keen
- Intuitive
Australian Shepherd History
Australian Shepherd Dogs (also known as Aussies) originated in the U.S.A despite their name. They became popular in World War I when there was a huge increase in western riding and they were used by the rodeo riders.
They are extremely versatile dogs and their abilities include retrieving, herding, guarding, police work, drugs detection, search & rescue, agility, competitive obedience and tricks.
Australian Shepherd Characteristics
These medium sized dogs have a thick weather resistant coat found in colours including blue merle, black, red merle and red.
They are renowned for their distinctive eyes which may be any shade of brown or blue. They may have two different coloured eyes which tends to be linked to the merle colouration.
Due to their high energy level and impressive intellect, both physical and mental stimulation is imperative to avoid behavioural problems. Failure to challenge and exercise these dogs regularly results in distressed and occasionally destructive dogs.
Australian Shepherd Health Issues
Average lifespan is 12 – 15 years.
Common Illnesses include;
- Hip Dysplasia – Genetic conditions that cause abnormal development of hip joints in young dogs. This can lead to early onset degenerative joint disease.
- Collie Eye Anomaly – A congenital, inherited condition involving both eyes, caused by a recessive gene defect. It can cause mild disease or blindness in a small percentage of causes. There is a DNA test available to ensure breeders are not producing puppies with this defect.
- Epilepsy – Recurrent Seizures
- Cataracts – Abnormal opacity in the lens resulting in blurred or complete loss of vision.
- Diabetes Mellitus – Abnormally high blood sugar resulting in ravenous appetite, excessive drinking and urination, weight loss, vomiting and possible coma.
- Patella Luxation - Partial to full dislocation of one or both kneecaps.
- Distachiasis – Extra eyelashes at eyelid margin which can rub against the corneal surface.
- Iris Coloboma – Hereditary defect causing increased sensitivity to light.
- Homozygous white – Inherited disorder with merle genes causing hearing and /or vision defects.