Dog Breeds :: Austrailian Shepherd

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.

AKC Recommends
The American Kennel Club recommends that anyone interested in a breed should take the time to thoroughly learn about that breed, talk to responsible and knowledgeable breeders and seek out the resources of the AKC national club formed by individuals devoted to preserving and protecting their breed for future generations. The AKC offers links to the official national Club of this breed - the club's officers, breeder referral, and breed rescue contact persons.