Basic Information About Australian Shepherds
Australian shepherds actually originated in the United States, despite the name. In both countries, they are renowned for their herding skills with both sheep and cattle. The breed is reasonably well known by many people as it has featured in several Disney films. It is commonly associated with horses, western riding and rodeos.
As a working dog, stock-men value this breed. Like most working dogs, they have huge amounts of energy and are highly intelligent. They are keen to please and have been used as therapy and guide dogs. They have also found occupations in search and rescue and detection areas. As pets, they need to be kept busy. Luckily they are easily trained and enjoy Frisbee, obedience and agility work and fly ball.
With a maximum weight of 90 pounds and a shoulder height of 26 inches, these are classed as medium sized. Of course some are smaller and teacup size is now available. Black and red solid-colored dogs are found; also red merle and blue merle. Tan points are common as are white patches and markings.
The eyes of this breed are very distinctive. They may have any shade of blue or brown eyes. The pale-colored eyes led to the nickname 'ghost eyes'. Each eye may be a different color and occasionally the one eye may be half-brown and half-blue. Some even have merled eyes which contain blue and brown pigment in a swirled pattern.
Some are born with naturally short or bobbed tails. Others have partial bobs or full length tails. Pups were once docked if they were not born with bobbed tails. The hips and legs are strong giving fast acceleration and jumping ability. Some dogs are able to leap 4 feet.
While a few dogs are wary and reserved, most have tremendous energy. Unless they get plenty of exercise and occupation, they will not be happy. They take on a protective role to their surroundings and will bark at disturbances. Intelligent and playful, they will invent their own games if no-one has time for them.
The breed is not hard on stock. If a cow aims a kick at the dog, it will immediately crouch on the ground, allowing the kick to travel harmlessly over its head. It is so easy to train that some find themselves helping direct flocks of geese and ducks on commercial operations.
Australian shepherds can become destructive if they are not kept occupied. Having a large yard will help. With a high level of stamina, they make good companions for joggers. They also enjoy trail walks and rides. Because they are easily trained, they have no trouble mastering a variety of tricks.
As a working dog, stock-men value this breed. Like most working dogs, they have huge amounts of energy and are highly intelligent. They are keen to please and have been used as therapy and guide dogs. They have also found occupations in search and rescue and detection areas. As pets, they need to be kept busy. Luckily they are easily trained and enjoy Frisbee, obedience and agility work and fly ball.
With a maximum weight of 90 pounds and a shoulder height of 26 inches, these are classed as medium sized. Of course some are smaller and teacup size is now available. Black and red solid-colored dogs are found; also red merle and blue merle. Tan points are common as are white patches and markings.
The eyes of this breed are very distinctive. They may have any shade of blue or brown eyes. The pale-colored eyes led to the nickname 'ghost eyes'. Each eye may be a different color and occasionally the one eye may be half-brown and half-blue. Some even have merled eyes which contain blue and brown pigment in a swirled pattern.
Some are born with naturally short or bobbed tails. Others have partial bobs or full length tails. Pups were once docked if they were not born with bobbed tails. The hips and legs are strong giving fast acceleration and jumping ability. Some dogs are able to leap 4 feet.
While a few dogs are wary and reserved, most have tremendous energy. Unless they get plenty of exercise and occupation, they will not be happy. They take on a protective role to their surroundings and will bark at disturbances. Intelligent and playful, they will invent their own games if no-one has time for them.
The breed is not hard on stock. If a cow aims a kick at the dog, it will immediately crouch on the ground, allowing the kick to travel harmlessly over its head. It is so easy to train that some find themselves helping direct flocks of geese and ducks on commercial operations.
Australian shepherds can become destructive if they are not kept occupied. Having a large yard will help. With a high level of stamina, they make good companions for joggers. They also enjoy trail walks and rides. Because they are easily trained, they have no trouble mastering a variety of tricks.
About the Author:
Learn more about how to choose and train Australian Shepherds today! You can get the information that will help you to train your Australian Shepherd more easily now.
0 comments:
Post a Comment