| Origin |
United States/Australia |
| Original Use |
Sheep herding |
| Use Today |
Companion, sheep herding , specialized roles (e.g. search and rescue) |
| Temperament |
It is a loving and playful dog. It shows great loyalty and is very protective of and devoted to its family. It is intelligent and easily trained. |
| Acceptance of: |
Other Dogs - Good |
| Other Pets - Good |
| Strangers - Reserved and shy |
| Children - Excellent with older children, may want to herd children.
|
| Watchdog Ability |
Excellent |
| Guard dog Ability |
Very Good |
| Ease of Training |
Excellent |
| Living Conditions |
Can live outdoors in moderate climates, but because of its attachment to its family it is much better suited to living indoors. |
| Exercise |
Requires lots of daily exercise plus mental stimulation. Without these it will become frustrated and may become snappy. |
| Coat |
Has a two layered water resistant coat. The outer coat is of medium texture and medium length. The inner coat is short and soft and varies with climate. |
| Grooming |
Needs brushing once a week. |
| Colors |
Comes in a variety of colors: black, blue merle, fawn, and red. All of these may have some white or tan markings. |
| Height and Weight |
Ideal weight is 40 to 65 pounds (18 to 30 kg) while the ideal height is 18 to 23 inches (45.75 to 58.5 cm). Variations may occur in individual animals. |
| Life Expectancy |
12 to 15 years. |
| Group |
The AKC places the Australian Shepherd in the herding group. |
