Other Name(s): Spanish Shepherds, Pastor Dogs, Bob-Tails, Blues, Heelers, New Mexican Shepherds and California Shepherds
History of the Breed: The Australian Shepherd was given its name because of their association with the Basque sheepherders who
came to the United States from Australia in the 1800's. The breed as we know it today developed exclusively in the United States. It is
prized by ranchers for its versatility, keen intelligence, and outstanding herding instinct.
General Appearance: A medium sized breed with a head size that is in proportion to the body. The skull top is flat or
slightly domed with the length and width equal. The muzzle tapers little from base to nose and is rounded at the tip.
The almond shaped eyes can be brown, blue, amber or any combination thereof, including flecks and marbling. The triangular ears are of moderate
size and set high on the head.
The nose color varies with coat color; blue merles and blacks have black pigmentation on the nose, red merles and reds have liver brown
pigmentation on the nose.
The body is well balanced, slightly longer than tall with a back that is straight and strong. The chest is deep with the lowest point
reaching the elbow. The ribs are well sprung and long. The tail is straight, docked or naturally bobbed, and does not exceed four inches in length.
The coat is straight to wavy, weather resistant, and of medium length and comes in a variety of colors including blue
merle, red merle, black tricolor, red tricolor, black bicolor, and red bicolor.
Color: Blue merle, black, red merle and all red with or without white markings and/or tan points
Coat: Double coat is medium length and straight to slightly wavy
Grooming needs: Low
Temperament of Breed: A great family dog.
Friendly with children: Yes
Friendly with other dogs: Yes
Suitability as a watchdog: Yes
Exercise Level: High, this breed requires daily exercise.
Health Issues with the Breed: Major: Hip dysplasia, epilepsy, cataracts, iris coloboma, collie eye anomaly
Minor: Allergies
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
2006 AKC Ranking: 34
First Registered by the AKC: 1991
Registries: UKC, NKC, AKC, NZKC, CKC, APRI
AKC -American Kennel Club
APRI -American Pet Registry Inc.
CKC -Canadian Kennel Club
NKC -National Kennel Club
NZKC -New Zealand Kennel Club
UKC -United Kennel Club
