The Australian Shepherd is a medium 
size dog, about 20 inches high
and weighing about 40 pounds. It has a large head, pendent ears
and a semierect tail. The eyes are almost always blue. The coat
is thick and the colors black, red, red merle, blue merle, or
white with chestnut markings. It is double coated and the hair
can be either wavy or straight. The hair is medium length. Minimal
grooming is required.
It is believed the Australian Shepherds'
origins come from Spain. Basque herdsmen settled in Australia
to raise sheep. The Australian Shepherd was developed by crossing
Australian and New Zealand sheepdogs. It was brought to California
in the mid 1800's.
The dog is loyal, affectionate, courageous,
playful, adaptable, with the stamina and agility to work and
play all day. It is intelligent and clever and easily trained.
It makes an excellent companion dog and is good with children.
It needs exercise and would do best in a home with a fenced yard
or area to run.
This sheepdog is able to herd almost any
type of animal into a pen.
They have a life expectancy of from 12
to 15 years.
The plush Australian Shepherd shown above
is Sinclair made by Douglas Cuddle Toys. Check
our Gift Shop
to see if we have any in stock.
