The Australian Shepherd was originally developed in the 19th and 20th centuries as a general-purpose ranch and farm dog in the American West, where a tough, enduring, versatile stock dog with an honest work ethic was required. His usual work included moving very large herds of sheep and cattle from summer to winter grazing grounds and back, flushing range cattle out of heavy brush, and moving livestock in tight quarters such as chutes and alleys.
The Australian Shepherd is categorized as one of the Loose-Eyed breeds of stock dogs. He is a confident, authoritative worker with a unique style that differs from Strong-Eyed breeds, such as the Border Collie. He is agile, upright and close-working, and exhibits these distinctive traits while maintaining the ability and versatility to control all types of livestock in an efficient and deliberate manner. The Australian Shepherd excels at controlling large and/or slow-moving flocks of sheep and herds of cattle, and is highly regarded for his superior ability to effectively manage livestock in tightly confined spaces. The Australian Shepherd is powerful and intense by nature easily learning the appropriate force and distance needed for the type of livestock being worked. Utilizing a loose-eyed approach to stock, a working Australian Shepherd will often display wear, grip, and/or an authoritative bark, as well as eye when necessary, to handle their stock.
To this day the Australian Shepherds continue to excel at their original jobs, but have over time shown to be a valuable asset as police dogs, narcotics detectors, competitors in obedience and agility trials, seeing eye dogs, search and rescue, and pf course a great family pet. You couldn't ask for a better companion for your children.
Most Aussies are at their best when they have a job to do. They are high energy dogs who need a purpose in their lives - Running, jumping, and rough-housing are all a part of being a normal Aussie.
Aussies are quite capable of out-thinking their owners. Obedience training is highly recommended as a means of teaching owners how to channel the typical Aussie’s innate desire to please into appropriate behaviors. Aussies learn very quickly, so be certain you are willing to keep your Aussie occupied with walks, play, and training to benefit both mind and body.
Although many Aussies are friendly with everyone, the Australian Shepherd as a breed tends to be somewhat reserved and cautious around strangers. With Aussies of this nature, owners should encourage the dog to meet people but not force encounters. Aussies are often quite protective of their family and property, a desirable trait in some situations but not acceptable in others, and some dogs never accept strangers.
Aussies are generally healthy dogs and can be expected to live up to 13 - 15 years. Although minimal, there is some grooming required to keep the coat clean and conditioned, such as regular brushing and nail trimming. High quality food is a huge asset in maintaining a healthy coat.
Aussies are perfect for people wishing to own a highly trainable, versatile, super-smart dog that can work/play “till the cows come home, and then curl up beside(or on) the couch when the day is over. If you have the time and commitment for an Aussie, you won’t be disappointed. These special dogs deserve special owners. Their loyalty, drive, character, and whimsical sense of humor place them in a class by themselves.
Meet Lefty
Standing 16 inches & weighing 20 pounds with one blue eye & beautiful copper Lefty is a truly awesome dog. He loves to run and play, but can come in the house and sit still for as long as you want him to. His puppies are taking after him in every way
