Australian Shepherd

Nickname(s): Aussie
Origin: United States
Group: Herding

Breed History
The Australian Shepherd was developed in the U.S. to work as a herding dog. Despite the name, the breed's roots are tied to the Basque region of Europe, where early breeders created a dog suited for managing livestock. The Australian Shepherd became popular with American farmers and ranchers for its intelligence, energy, and strong work ethic. It’s now a beloved companion and agility dog.

Appearance
Size: Medium (18–23 inches tall, 40–65 lbs)

Coat: Medium-length, wavy or curly, with a water-resistant outer coat

Colors: Blue merle, red merle, black, red, and bi-color variations

Temperament
Personality: Intelligent, energetic, loyal, and protective

Good with kids: Yes, with proper training and supervision

Energy level: High — requires a lot of mental and physical stimulation


Fun Facts
The Australian Shepherd is known for its striking, often multi-colored eyes (sometimes even one blue and one brown!).

Aussies excel in agility and obedience competitions due to their intelligence and eagerness to work.