With a gorgeous mottled coat and a steady friendly temperament, the Australian Shepherd is ideal for all households and makes a wonderful family dog.

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Don’t be fooled, these hardy dogs are from America, not Australia. The origin of their name is unclear. This breed is great for active households and is strong, eager to please, intelligent and dominant. They tend to be shy around strangers. Being good-natured, they suit most households and get along with children or the elderly, as long as enough exercise is provided. Care must be taken that they don’t naturally ‘herd’ children.

They are loyal and devoted to their families and content with snuggling on the couch, but they do have high-energy needs. Long daily walks as well as off-leash running and games are required for a healthy and happy Australian Shepherd.

Fun fact: They often have no tails, mismatched eyes

and predominantly crystal-blue eyes.

During moulting season, an Australian Shepherd sheds moderately. Keep your pet away from anything black, as it will get covered. Their coat fairs well when brushed weekly. They love long chats with their family and tend to bark a lot, making them suitable watchdogs.

Australian Shepherds grow to be quite large. Their intelligence makes them easy to train and they thrive when taught new tricks. However, they can become bored and destructive if left alone for too long without mental stimulation such as games or toys.

Scheduled six monthly health check visits with your vet are important to ensure that your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. Together with your vet, you can determine and maintain a preventative health care program based on the individual needs of your canine companion.

How big do Australian Shepards get?

An Australian Shepherd is a large-sized breed weighing between 16-32kgs, with a height between 46-58cms.

How much space do Australian Shepards need?

They love an outdoor space to run around in.

How much energy do Australian Shepards have?

Australian Shepherds are full-of-beans, high-energy dogs. Daily runs and games of fetch or frisbee are great.

How difficult are Australian Shepards to train?

They are highly intelligent, making them easy to train.

Are Australian Shepards suitable for families?

Australian Shepherds are terrific family pets, loyal companions and they even make great watchdogs.

Are Australian Shepards compatible with other dogs and animals?

They enjoy being in a single-pet household.

How much company do Australian Shepards need?

This breed is ideal for stay-at-home parents, as they enjoy company.

Are Australian Shepards a hypoallergenic dog breed?

No.

What coat and grooming needs do Australian Shepards have?

Grooming couldn’t be any easier, just brush their coat once a week. They have a medium-long coat in black, blue, red, red merle or mottled colours. All have white markings on their chest, legs and under their muzzle.

Do Australian Shepards shed?

Moderate shedders.

Do Australian Shepards have a tendency to bark?

They have a high tendency to bark.

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