Australian Shepherd

• ExerciseVery high

  Thrives with a job, sport or serious daily exercise.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Living spaceFlexible

  Adapts to most homes with enough activity.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment12–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hip dysplasia · Epilepsy · Cataracts

The Australian Shepherd is a brilliant, tireless herding dog with an engine that never idles, and it is genuinely happy only when its body and mind are both worked hard every day. This is a dog for active, committed owners: it excels at herding, agility, obedience and every dog sport, but a bored, under-exercised Aussie becomes anxious and destructive and will start 'herding' children, other pets and moving objects. Devoted and eager to please, it thrives on training and close involvement with its family. The medium double coat sheds heavily and needs brushing a few times a week, more during seasonal moults. Health-wise, buy from a breeder who screens hips and eyes, and note a breed-specific caution: Aussies often carry the MDR1 gene mutation, which makes them dangerously sensitive to certain common medications, so ask about testing and tell your vet. Also watch for epilepsy, cataracts and, in merle-to-merle breeding, deafness and blindness. Give an Aussie a real job, plenty of exercise and mental challenge, and it will be an exceptionally capable, loyal companion for twelve to fifteen years.

• How much exercise does a Australian Shepherd need?

  Very high. Thrives with a job, sport or serious daily exercise.

• How much grooming does a Australian Shepherd need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Is a Australian Shepherd suited to apartment living?

  Flexible. Adapts to most homes with enough activity.

• Is a Australian Shepherd a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Australian Shepherd live?

  12–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Australian Shepherd?

  Keep an eye out for Hip dysplasia, Epilepsy, Cataracts. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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