Physical Characteristics of the Australian Shepherd
(from the American Kennel Club breed standard)
Head: Clean cut, strong and dry. Overall size should be in proportion to the body. Skull top flat to slightly domed. Length and width are equal.
Eyes: Brown, blue, amber or any variation or combination thereof, including flecks and marbling. Almond shaped.
Nose: Red merles and reds have liver (brown) pigmentation on the nose (and lips).
Teeth: A full complement of strong white teeth should meet in a scissors bite or may meet in a level bite.
Muzzle: Equal in length or slightly shorter than the back skull. The muzzle tapers little from base to nose and is rounded at the tip.
Chest: Not broad but is deep with the lowest point reaching the elbow.
Forequarters: Shoulders—Shoulder blades are long, flat, fairly close set at the withers and well laid back. The upper arm, which should be relatively the same length as the shoulder blade, attaches at an approximate right angle to the shoulder line with forelegs dropping straight, perpendicular to the ground. Legs straight and strong. Pastern is medium length and very slightly sloped.
Feet: Oval, compact with close knit, well arched toes.
Ears: Triangular, of moderate size and leather, set high on the head. At full attention they break forward and over, or to the side as a rose ear.
Neck: Strong, of moderate length, slightly arched at the crest, fitting well into the shoulders.
Color: Blue merle, black, red merle, red—all with or without white markings and/or tan (copper) points, with no order of preference.
Back: Straight and strong, level and firm from withers to hip joints.
Tail: Straight, docked or naturally bobbed, not to exceed four inches in length.
Coat: Hair is of medium texture, straight to wavy, weather resistant and of medium length. The undercoat varies in quantity with variations in climate.
Hindquarters: The width of the hindquarters is equal to the width of the forequarters at the shoulders. Stifles are clearly defined, hock joints moderately bent. The hocks are short, perpendicular to the ground and parallel to each other when viewed from the rear.
Size: The preferred height for males is 20–23 inches, females 18–21 inches.
Contents
History of the Australian Shepherd
Australian in name but with a background that also spans Europe and North America, the Australian Shepherd is commonly known as a breed of American origin. Follow the evolution and establishment of the amazing Aussie—one of the most intelligent, skilled and beautiful of all dog breeds around the world.
Characteristics of the Australian Shepherd
Looks, brains, talent and personality plus—the Australian Shepherd has it all! Do you have what it takes to own an Aussie? Find out here in an in-depth discussion about the breed’s temperament, physical characteristics and health considerations, as well as what is required to own this affectionate, intuitive and versatile breed.
Breed Standard for the Australian Shepherd
Learn the requirements of a well-bred Australian Shepherd by studying the description of the breed set forth in the American Kennel Club standard. Both show dogs and pets must possess key characteristics as outlined in the breed standard.
Your Puppy Australian Shepherd
Be advised about choosing a reputable breeder and selecting a healthy, typical puppy. Understand the responsibilities of ownership, including home preparation, acclimatization, the vet and prevention of common puppy problems.
Everyday Care of Your Australian Shepherd
Enter into a sensible discussion of dietary and feeding considerations, exercise, grooming, traveling and identification of your dog. This chapter discusses Australian Shepherd care for all stages of development.
Housebreaking and Training Your Australian Shepherd
Be informed about the importance of training your Australian Shepherd from the basics of housebreaking and understanding the development of a young dog to executing obedience commands (sit, stay, down, etc.).
Health Care of Your Australian Shepherd
Discover how to select a qualified veterinarian and care for your dog at all stages of life. Topics include vaccination scheduling, skin problems, external and internal parasites and common medical and behavioral conditions.
Your Senior Australian Shepherd
Recognize the signs of an aging dog, implement a senior-care program with your veterinarian and become comfortable with making the final decisions and arrangements for your senior Aussie.
Showing Your Australian Shepherd
Experience the dog show world, including different types of shows and the making of a champion. Go beyond the show ring to
