| Australian Shepherd "Aussie" |
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| Size |
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| Energy Level |
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| Grooming |
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| Trainability |
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| Watchdog |
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| Suitability w/children |
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| Origin | Original Function |
| 1800s Spain (Later migrated to Australia) | Sheep herders |
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| Family | Average Weight | Average Height |
| AKC Herding | 40 to 65 pounds | 18 to 23 inches |
| UKC Herding |
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| Ave Life Span | Coat Variations | Color Variations |
| 12 to 15 years | Double Coat | Solid Black, Solid Red, Blue Merle, Red Merle, all with or without white and/or tan markings. |
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| Temperment |
| The Aussie is a highly intelligent active breed. They require a lot of physical and mental exercise on a daily basis. They are a great family pet, very affectionate and good with children. They require regular brushing to reduce shedding and matting. Aussie's have been known to be a little cautious of strangers, so socialization is a must. If this breed is not givin proper exercise and outlets for their energy, they may find their own activites to partake in such as herding, chewing, or barking. This breed excels in obedience and agility if worked with on a daily basis. |
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| Health Concerns |
| The two more common concerns are hip dysplasia and different eye defects. Other known concerns to watch for are epilepsy, cancer, elbow dysplasia, thryoid and heart problems, and allergies. |
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| Common Behavior Problems |
| Unwanted herding, aloofness or aggression towards strangers, barking |
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| Owner Experiences |
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