General Appearance
The Australian Shepherd is an intelligent working dog of strong herding and guarding instincts. He is a loyal companion and has the stamina to work all day. He is well balanced, slightly longer than tall, of medium size and bone, with coloring that offers variety and individuality. He is attentive and animated, lithe and agile, solid and muscular without cloddiness. He has a coat of moderate length and coarseness. He has a docked or natural bobbed tail.
Owning
The Australian Shepherd is an intelligent dog with strong herding and guarding instincts. He is an agile dog who has the stamina to work all day. One distinguishing characteristic of the Australian Shepherd is its tail, which is usually a naturally bobbed tail or it may be docked. The Australian Shepherd is an intelligent, active dog who requires regular exercise. He is good natured and even tempered, although he may be initially shy with strangers. He makes a loyal companion.
Temperament
The Australian Shepherd is an intelligent, active dog with an even disposition; he is good natured, seldom quarrelsome. He may be somewhat reserved in initial meetings.
Did You Know
Date entered into Regular Classes: January 1, 1993 The Australian Shepherd probably originated in the Basque region of the Pyrenees, mountains between Spain and France, but was dubbed the Australian Shepherd because of its association with Basque shepherds who came into the United States from Australia in the 1800s. The Australian Shepherd was initially called by many names, including Spanish Shepherds, Pastor Dogs, Bob-Tails, Blues, Heelers, New Mexican Shepherds and California Shepherds. In 1989, The Australian National Kennel Club granted permission for the Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA) to use the name ''Australian Shepherd'' so long as it was always made clear the breed had not been developed in Australia.