Australian shepherds are lively and fun dogs known for their distinct looks. This patterned breed has an energetic demeanor and can be traced to the indigenous people of Basque Country. According to history, in the early 1800s, some Basques brought their dogs’ Pyrenean shepherds, into east Australia.
These dogs were robust and known as lively sheepdogs. However, with time, the Basque dogs were crossbred with the border collies, leading to the birth of today’s Australian Shepherd. These hybrid dogs were called Australian Shepherds because many ranchers believed that the dogs were from Australia. Although Australian Shepherds were bred initially for ranch life, their intelligence led to their use as service dogs and even drug detectors.
Australian Shepherds are often multicolored with white undercoats. Their tails can be intertwined or clipped, and their ears folded forward. Australian Shepherd comes in a variety of patterns. Their coats can be white, black, gray, or red, and their eyes can be clear blue, brown, or both.
Australian Shepherds are dogs with several layers of information to learn about. If you intend to get an Australian Shepherd or are just generally curious about this dog breed, here are some facts that you should know about the Australian Shepherd.
Size
Male Australian Shepherds can grow up to 20-23 inches in height and 50- 65 pounds in weight. Female Australian shepherds, on the other hand, weigh 45 to 65 pounds with a size of 18-21 inches.
Grooming
Being active dogs, Australian shepherds tend to get dirty quickly. Therefore, to take proper care of them, they need to be bathed regularly as this reduces the chances of them bringing dirt and insects into the home. Additionally, Australian shepherds have a waterproof double-layer coat that needs to be brushed every week. Brushing the dog’s coat helps with tangles. Aussies also have fold-over ears that can be prone to ear infections. Therefore, you should check for wax build-up or dirt that might be hidden in the ears.
Training
Australian shepherds have a high energy level. Therefore, they need to be trained from an early age. These breeds of dogs are protective and should not be left alone for long as they get easily bored and might end up destroying your property. Australian shepherds have a high intelligence level, so early obedience training makes them more active.
Energy Level
Australian shepherds are filled with boundless energy. Taking them for a walk or run is one of their favorite activities. However, keep them on leashes because Aussies love to herd anything that moves. Additionally, they are known to enjoy dock diving.
Feeding
Australians are generally healthy, but they are prone to obesity and allergies. These issues can be improved or worsened by diet. Obesity doesn’t just affect the dog’s beauty but can also exacerbate joint problems in the breed. Obesity in an Australian shepherd can also increase the chances of diseases like cancer. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that your Aussie gets a healthy meal in the right amount to maintain a healthy weight.
For Australian shepherds with signs of food allergies, you must know what they are feeding on. Allergic reactions and food intolerances are relatively common in dogs, and these symptoms often clear up once they switch from highly processed to whole, fresh food.
Life Span
When healthy, an Australian shepherd’s life expectancy ranges from 12-15 years on average.
Common Health Concerns For Australian Shepherds
It’s useful to be aware of an Australian shepherd’s life expectancy. There are a few health-related issues breed owners should be aware of when caring for these breeds.
1. Allergies
One of the most common health issues faced by an Aussie is allergies. Australian shepherds often experience skin allergies, usually caused by environmental factors or food. Therefore, if any of these symptoms are experienced by your Aussie, do well to consult your vet.
2. Deafness
Australian shepherds have a higher-than-average chance of deafness. This is often a result of having no pigment in their inner ear.
3. Drug Sensitivity
Aussies are sensitive to some drugs, including antibiotics, pain medications, anti-cancer drugs, and parasite-control medications. Therefore, you must speak to your vet about how your dog might react to specific medicines being prescribed. Some of these drugs can reduce an Australian shepherd’s life expectancy.
4. Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
Without a doubt, Australian shepherds have a well-balanced body condition. However, like several other dogs, they may experience hip and elbow dysplasia, which results in degenerative joint disease (DJD). Aussies are also prone to hip dysplasia, a genetic joint deformity that occurs in growing dogs. This condition can also be experienced due to extra weight (obesity).
Conclusion
It is pretty easy to keep your Australian Shepherd happy. Being intelligent and demanding, Aussie needs much stimulation. Therefore, it is your place to teach them how to direct their mental and physical energy. Additionally, Aussies need plenty of physical and mental exercise. In addition to fetching, enroll them in agility classes or work on their obedience; this keeps their minds active and energetic.
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