Breed Specific Information

• Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA)
• United States Australian Shepherd Association (USASA)
• American Kennel Club
• Australian Shepherd Pedigrees
• Australian Shepherd Lovers.com
• Aussie Rescue & Placement Helpline, Inc.

Health and Genetic Information

• Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)
• Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA)
• Australian Shepherd Health and Genetics Institute
• A Field Guide to Coloration in Australian Shepherds
• American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation
• Canine Epilepsy Resource Center

Aussie Facts

While the name says Australian , this breed developed exclusively in the United States. The breed as we know it developed from dogs that Basque sheepherders brought with them as they immigrated from Australia in the late 1800's. These dogs developed into what many ranchers and farmers call the Great American Farm Dog.
Aussies can have blue eyes! Native Americans called these Aussies "ghost-eyed ones" referring to the unusual, often blue eyes, of the Aussie and felt these dogs were sacred. It is said when Native Americans encountered pioneers heading West with these sacred dogs, they let them pass unharmed.
Aussies come in a variety of colors: black, red, blue merle and red merle. Quite a patchwork to choose from!
Why don't Aussies have tails? To avoid potential injuries when herding the tails are docked. This keeps tails from getting caught in gates or from getting tangled and infected from burs while herding on the open range. And when you are greeted by an Aussie, you soon understand why they have the nickname 'wiggle butt.'
Aussies are said to be one of the most intelligent breeds of dogs. They are superb herding dogs with superior intelligence and loyal family companions who would give their lives to protect their masters and his possessions.
They excel in herding, stock dog trials, agility, Frisbee, obedience, confirmation, therapy work, and search and rescue.
Aussies are energetic dogs who need to have a 'job' to do. They love to be with their families and move from room to room just to stay close. Because they are herding dogs, don't be surprised to see an Aussie 'herding' children as well as keeping watch over the family he loves. Aussies are experts at reading body language. When your Aussie warns you, pay attention. They are excellent judges of character.
Recommended Reading
Hartnagle-Taylor, Jeanne, All About Aussies, The Australian Shepherd From A To Z, Alpine Publications, 1996

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