Australian Shepherd Dog
The ‘Aussie’ is undoubtedly a favourite the world over. Despite their name, the breed originated in America for use on ranches to herd livestock. An eager-to-please breed makes them a popular choice for many homes, as do their striking looks and breathtaking eyes.
Australian Shepherd At A Glance
| Lifespan | 13-15 years |
| Temperament | A highly intelligent breed known for their excellent nature and affectionate disposition. |
| Suitable | As a working breed, this dog must live with an active family. |
| Health | A generally healthy breed; however, they can suffer from specific health complaints. |
| COMMON CLAIMS | MAXIMUM CLAIM |
|---|---|
| Tissue Damage/Fracture | $7,582.29 |
| Eye Conditions | $462.25 |
| Gastrointestinal Conditions | $2,752.86 |
| Foreign Body or Toxin Ingestion | $3,459.00 |
| Muscle/Skeletal Condition | $1,373.30 |
| Arthritis | $6,930.56 |
| Neoplasia | $5,100.65 |
| Mass Lesion | $1,675.95 |
| Neurological Condition | $4,313.95 |
| Skin Conditions | $2,631.50 |
*Pet Insurance Australia Data 2022/2023
Trainability
Being a working breed, the Australian Shepherd is very easy to train and responds well to positive reinforcement and praise-based training. They love to please those who adore them. However, they require a lot of exercise to keep them happy and well-adjusted. Training should begin from the word go, with the breed thriving on learning new things and working alongside their beloved owners. Strong leadership is a must with this breed, making them the perfect choice for experienced owners. Like all breeds, early socialisation is also essential to ensure your pup grows into a well-rounded dog open to new experiences and people. This breed loves to work, so enrolling in additional training such as agility or flyball will see your pup getting the brain and brawn flex needed to keep them happy. They are a herding breed and will need basic obedience to learn manners and prevent ‘nipping and chasing’ issues that can surface with certain breeds that have historically worked alongside livestock.
Grooming the Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are known for shedding particularly seasonally and will need additional grooming during this time to help with the tumble-weeds of hair around your home. The coat will need weekly grooming to keep it tangle-free and in good condition. Some owners trim and clip their Aussies to help with coat maintenance and overheating during hot summers. Don’t forget to clip your dog’s nails often. If you are unsure how to do this, ask your friendly vet nurse for a demonstration.
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Common Health Complaints – Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is generally healthy; however, like most dog breeds, they can suffer from specific health complaints.
- Hip Dysplasia: A typically hereditary condition common in dogs due to a misalignment of the hip joint and thigh bone that can cause excessive pain and lameness. Treatment usually includes surgery, medication, weight management and physiotherapy.
- Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, this is also a common hereditary condition that affects the joint of the elbow but affects the elbow joint—leading to pain and lameness in the affected leg. Treatment can include surgery, weight management, medication and physiotherapy.
- Cataracts: A clouding of the eye's lens that can lead to vision problems and eventually blindness. Regular check-up throughout your Australian Shepherd life is important. Treatment can include surgery and creating a safe environment for your hard-of-sight dog.
- Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA): An inherited condition affecting several breeds, including the Australian Shepherd. It can lead to vision impairment. CEA has no cure; however, surgery can help minimise the effects.
- Epilepsy: Some Australian Shepherds may also have epilepsy. Seizures can be contained and managed with anti-seizure medication and regular veterinary check-ups.
- Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD): This orthopaedic condition is caused by improper cartilage growth in the joints and is the common cause of elbow dysplasia. Although relatively rare, it can cause pain and stiffness. Keyhole surgery is typically recommended to remove the cartilage growth.
- Chronic Autoimmune Disorders: Although rare, the Australian Shepherd may also be susceptible to autoimmune diseases such as lupus, Addison’s Disease and others. These can affect various systems in the Australian Shepherd body, including skin, joints and internal organs. Treatment consists of specific life-long medications.
- Drug Sensitivity (MDR1 gene mutation): Many herding breeds, including the Australian Shepherd, can have drug sensitivities. This gene mutation can make them sensitive to common drugs used in veterinary medicine. Genetic testing is vital with Aussie dogs, as well as focusing on prevention rather than treatment. Good breeding and veterinary advice are recommended.
- Deafness/Hearing Loss: With all breeds that have lots of white on their heads, deafness can pose a problem. A veterinary check is vital if you suspect your Aussie is hard of hearing or not listening during training sessions.
- Hypothyroidism: A common disorder of the thyroid gland. This can lead to weight issues, epilepsy and hair loss. Treatment includes specialised medication.
Exercise Requirements
This breed loves to run and move! If you do not have the time to exercise your Australian Shepherd adequately, consider another breed. They will require good vigorous exercise daily. An off-leash run chasing after a ball or Frisbee is the perfect way to entertain your dog. An Aussie who doesn’t get adequate exercise or entertainment can become a nuisance. Hearing their barking voices echo across the backyards in suburbia may become a delight for the under-exercised Aussie – to the annoyance of your neighbourhood.
Intelligence
The Aussie is a very intelligent breed. Because of this, they can become masters at making their own entertainment – think herding, washing from the clothes line, holes, barking and destruction of your favourite shoes! Ensuring your dog is well-trained and correctly exercised is very important. You will also need secure fences to prevent your precious pup from escaping. Get creative with your boredom buster techniques when you are not at home and start the day with an excellent pant-provoking exercise to help ease a lonely day in the yard.
Family Friendly
With the correct training, the Australian Shepherd can make an excellent family companion. Remember that this breed was historically used to chase and nip for herding purposes, and many will have this ‘natural’ trait from puppyhood. However, with the correct training, you can teach your young Aussie that this behaviour is unacceptable around children and other pets. Once they understand the boundaries well, this breed will thrive in any active household.
Indoor/outdoor?
The Aussie does well outdoors but, like all dogs, will prefer to be alongside their loving human curled up at the feet of a sofa. Ensuring they have enough shade during the summer and ample water to keep them cool and prevent overheating. Fences are critical as an Australian Shepherd who wants to escape will stop at nothing to get out.
Responsible Breeding
Potential Aussie owners should work with reputable breeders who test their breeding dogs for common inherited health conditions. Ask all the important questions about hereditary/inherited issues with this breed, and if possible, ask to view Mum and Dad. Contact your local breed club and research your chosen breeder. Your breeder should have paperwork to show that they regularly test their dogs and bloodlines for genetic diseases. It may take a little more time than a quick purchase, but it can save a considerable amount of heartache and costs for a sick puppy or older dog.
Contact PIA for Australian Shepherd Pet Insurance
PIA is a family owned pet insurance company for Australia, and we have a long and successful history of helping owners care for their Australian Shepherds. Contact us today to learn more about our range of simple, flexible and affordable cover options.
