Australian shepherd

Australian shepherd

Australian shepherd

Australian shepherd

Australian shepherd

The Australian shepherd is a breed of herding dog that was developed on ranches in the Western United States. Despite its name, the breed, commonly known as an Aussie, did not originate in Australia[2] They acquired their name because some of the Australian sheepdogs arrived in the United States with boatloads of Australian sheep.[3][4] The breed rose gradually in popularity with the boom of western riding after World War I. They became known to the general public through rodeos, horse shows, and through Disney movies made for television.

Appearance: The Aussie is a medium size dog, known for its natural bob or docked tail. The Aussie is an active herding breed, typically very good around other pets and familiar individuals, but may be reserved around strangers. They are a loyal, loving breed who prefer the close companionship and company of their owners. The breed is double coated and therefore has a tendency to shed year round and more so during fall and spring as they change out coats.

Temperament: 

• The breed is typically highly energetic, requiring a great deal of exercise and attention. Sometimes they can be calm and easy-going. An Australian shepherd enjoys working, whether it is learning and practicing tricks, competing in dog agility, or engaging in any other physically and mentally involving activity.

• Dogs may show reserved and cautious guarding behaviors. They are kind, loving, and devoted to those they know. They are very loyal to their owners, and are rewarding dogs if treated well.Because the breed was developed to serve on the ranch, a job which includes being protective of its property, it is inclined to bark warnings about neighborhood activity, but it's barks can be very annoying and unpleasant. However, it is not inclined toward obsessive barking.

• The Aussie is intelligent, learns quickly, and loves to play.This means that a bored, neglected, unexercised Aussie may invent its own games, activities, and jobs, which to a busy owner might appear to be hyperactivity: for example, an Aussie may go from being at rest to running at top speed for several 'laps' around the house before returning to rest. Without something to amuse them, Aussies can become destructive. Aussies also do best with plenty of human companionship: they are often called "velcro" for their strong desire to always be near their owners and for their tendency to form intense, devoted bonds with select people.