Breed Characteristics
Australian Shepherds-affectionately called Aussies were developed to herd livestock and work as all-purpose farm and ranch dogs. While many Aussies continue to work as stock dogs, the breed has earned recognition in a variety of other roles because of there high intelligence, trainability and eagerness to please. Australian Shepherds also work as Search and Rescue Dogs, Guide Dogs for the Blind, Therapy and Hearing Ear Dogs, and Drug Detection Dogs. They have become highly regarded for their skills in the competitive sports of obedience, agility and fly ball. But, most of all, they are beloved loyal family companions.
Temperament
Aussies are people dogs and are happiest when it is with its master and or family. Aussies bond tightly to their owners/families due to their inherited herding instinct. They are gentle guardians of small children, wonderful playmates of older children, and true companions to the adults in the family. Aussies are typically reserved around strangers and can be quite protective of their family and property. Aussies make excellent watchdogs and have been noted to give their own lives to protect their families. Aussies are a devoted breed but not mean of nature. One look into an Aussies eyes is said to see the gateway to your soul. There is not another breed more loyal or has more heart.
Grooming
Aussies are a wash and wear dog. Mud and dirt easily brushes from its coat. Dazzling in all of its colors the Aussies coat sparkles in the sunlight. Their coat is amazingly low maintenance and weather resistant whether herding stock in a wet meadow, foraging through a creek or taking a dunk in a back yard puddle the Aussies coat dries quickly. Weekly brushing will help eliminate tangles and remove dander and dust. Grooming your dog establishes a healthy rapport between you and your Aussie. Using a large slicker brush (handled brush with metal pins in rubber base) usually takes care of the job. Use a smaller slicker brush on puppies and be gentle this is a bonding experience and if you are tugging or pushing to hard the dog will resent the procedure. Weekly toenail clipping and teeth cleaning should also be a part of your Aussies grooming routine.
Vet Care
Your Aussie puppy requires parasite control and a series of vaccinations to prevent life-threatening diseases. We recommend that you locate a veterinarian you feel comfortable with and take your puppy to get inspected. Make sure you take the vaccination record you received from the breeder of your puppy so your veterinarian can look at it. Always keep your shots and worming up to date to give your new family member a long happy life.
