#friendsofwilliamwalker - Breed Profile Australian Shepherd
What exactly does "dog breed" mean?
A dog breed is a specific and distinguishable breeding of a domestic dog. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) currently has about 370 different dog breeds listed and thus recognized. The cynological umbrella organization assigns the dog breeds to different groups and sections based on their appearance and nature. There are 10 FCI groups, including, among others, FCI Group 1: Herding Dogs & Cattle Dogs or FCI Group 3: Terriers.
The choice of dog breed - which dog suits me?
To deal with the different dog breeds is crucial for us humans especially when we want to get a new four-legged friend. Which dog suits me? That is the most important question when buying a dog. It does not always have to be a purebred puppy, because even in the case of mixed breeds from the shelter, the various breed combinations give us information about whether the dog will be very large, for example, or possibly has a hunting instinct. However, not only the breed and its characteristics determine the development and behavior of the four-legged friend, but also the education and socialization.
The Australian Shepherd - a child-friendly family dog
- Weight: 16 (female) - 32 kg
- Height (Shoulder): 46 (fem.)-58 cm
- Ø Life expectancy: 13-15 years
- Fur colors: black / red merle / red tri / black tri / red / blue merle
- Breed assignment: FCI Group 1, Herding and Drifting Dogs, Section 1 Sheepdogs
History and origin of the Australian Shepherd
The medium-sized Australian Shepherd is, unlike its name suggests, a true American. In 1957 the first studbook for the breed was opened in the United States and in 1996 the breed was recognized by the FCI. Australian Shepherds are fascinating and demanding dogs and have been in great demand for several years. Dubious traders call up moon prices for puppies. Who wants to get an "Aussi" in the family should take time and look for a responsible breeder.
Character/Nature - an intelligent guardian of the family
The Australian Shepherd is intelligent, very docile and an absolute "workhorse". The breed owes its excellent development so far to the careful breeding of farmers in the USA, where dogs of this breed are considered reliable companions in ranch work. Therefore, even as a family dog, an Australian Shepherd needs demanding - even playful - tasks and daily challenges that do justice to his herding and guarding instincts. "Aussies" want to be loved and respected in their family, which makes them easy to handle on a daily basis.
Education - the Australian Shepherd is a real team player
The Australian Shepherd is easy to educate, he basically likes to do everything. He needs encouragement and loving confirmation, but also clarity and consistency in education. Otherwise he develops as a very intelligent pelt quickly strategies to assert his own head or to muddle through. The Aussie is therefore only conditionally a dog for beginners. An experienced dog trainer should support you in raising your Aussie from puppyhood. Important - as with all breeds - is consistency in action, coupled with love and affection.
Holding - an Australian Shepherd needs challenges
The Australian Shepherd is basically a loyal companion and a perfect playmate for children. The alert companion is very lively and persistent. Aussies are considered to be eager to learn and playful, but they also need time commitment from their owner. As soon as the fur nose is challenged or there is something to do, he is there with passion and enthusiasm. The play instinct and intelligence of the Australian Shepherd should be challenged during extended walks and hikes in varied nature. They are team players and especially suitable for an active and sporty family, preferably with a garden. Mental training is almost as important for Australian Shepherds as regular exercise. Aussies love to be petted and do not like to be alone.
Fashion Tip/Size Recommendation for the Australian Shepherd
The Aussie has long, soft fur and is nimble and athletic. Therefore, he should wear as light, flexible collars as possible, which do not hinder him. Our dog collars and leashes made of nappa leather are particularly suitable for this purpose. Personally, we think that our Lambrusco set just looks gorgeous with the Aussie's coat, but our brown Makassar also looks simply elegant! With the color-matching Poop Bag Holder the look is almost complete - for that special touch check out our new stylish Bandana in the Boho color. The Australian Shepherd has a neck circumference of 45 - 50 cm. We at William Walker therefore recommend size L for our collars and size M for our bandanas.
