Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherd

Medium breed · United States

Australian Shepherds are highly intelligent, energetic herding dogs with a striking merle coat. Despite their name, they were developed in the American West and excel at dog sports, herding, and as loyal family companions.

Breed Statistics

12–15 yrs
Lifespan
16–32 kg
Weight
90 min/day
Exercise
Daily grooming
Grooming

Temperament

  • Intelligent
  • Energetic
  • Loyal
  • Trainable
  • Protective

Daily Calorie Range

900–1400 kcal/day

For an average adult Australian Shepherd. Adjust for weight, age, and activity level.

5 Facts About the Australian Shepherd

  1. 1

    Despite their name, Australian Shepherds were developed in the American West, not Australia.

  2. 2

    They can have heterochromia — two completely different colored eyes.

  3. 3

    Aussies are known to herd children, other pets, and even adults by nipping at heels.

  4. 4

    They excel at virtually every dog sport including agility, frisbee, flyball, and herding trials.

  5. 5

    Australian Shepherds need at least 1–2 hours of vigorous exercise daily or they become destructive.

Australian Shepherd Age Calculator

Affects aging rate — giants age fastest.

More Australian Shepherd Guides