Australian Shepherd - Little blue dog

Introduction:
The Australian Shepherd dog was originated in the Basque region of Pyrenees, United States. It is a herding breed, used for herding trails and sheep herding. The life span of the Australian Shepherd is 14-16 years.  It is also called as Aussie or little blue dog as its nick name.

Australian Shepherd - Little blue dog

Origin / History:
The Australian Shepherd dog was developed in the 19th and the earlier 20th centuries
European settlers immigrating to the United States brought over many herding breeds to take care of the livestock
After World War II, they were used regularly in Western movies, television shows
The Australian Shepherd Club of America ASCA was founded in 1957 to promote the breed
In 1975, ASCA created a breed standard, by describing how this breed looks like
They became popular as performing dogs in rodeos

Nature / qualities:
The Australian Shepherd dog is intelligent, active and protective dog.  Aussies are used as hearing dogs for the deaf. They are eager to learn new tricks.  They are good natured. They love to play with the family members.  They love to be among the family. Some of them may try to herd the children by nipping at their heels.  Otherwise they are good with children.

Physical Appearance:
The height of the Male Australian Shepherd dog is 20-23 inches (52-58 cm) and the weight is 50-65 pounds (25-29 kg).  The height of the Female Australian Shepherd dog is 18-21 inches (46-53 cm) and the weight is 40-55 pounds (18-25 kg). The Australian Shepherd dog is a well-built, medium-size, athletic dog.  The skull is slightly rounded and the head is strong.  The eyes are almond-shaped and blue, amber in color, or any combination, including flecks or marbling.  They have dark nose. The ears are dropped and triangular in shape.  The four inches tail is straight and docked. The acceptable color of the body of the breed is solid red, solid black, blue merle and red merle, with or without white and/or tan markings. The front legs are strong and straight.

Health Concerns:
The major health of the Australian Shepherd dog is cataract, CEA. Minor concerns: CHD, nasal solar dermatitis, Pelger – Huet syndrome, iris coloboma. Occasionally seen: lumbar sacral syndrome, epilepsy, PRA, vWD, distichiasis, PDA, PPM, hip dysplasia

Grooming:
Weekly brushing should be done and it should be increased during the summer. Daily exercise must be given to this breed.  Also lots of exercise and training is recommended.

Cost:
The cost of purchasing this breed is $ 400 USD

Advantages:
  • The Aussies are working dog
  • They are delightful companions

Disadvantages:
  • They are distrustful to strangers


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