Australian Shepherd: Temperament, Size, Lifespan & Care

Australian Shepherd temperament and personality

The AKC calls the Aussie the cowboy's herding dog of choice and describes an irresistible impulse to herd anything: birds, dogs, kids. It rates the breed five out of five for energy, trainability and mental stimulation needs. They bond closely with their owners and want to be involved in everything.

That bond has a protective side. The AKC notes Aussies can be territorial and overprotective of their people and property, and that they may become destructive if left without company too often. VCA says they have limited tolerance for being alone and are prone to boredom. A first shopping list for an Aussie usually leads with a harness for Australian Shepherds and toys chosen for the breed.

How big do Australian Shepherds get?

According to the AKC, males stand 20 to 23 inches at the shoulder and weigh 50 to 65 pounds, and females stand 18 to 21 inches and weigh 40 to 55 pounds. They are medium-sized, athletic dogs with a medium-length double coat, often in merle patterns of blue or red.

If you want a smaller version, the AKC recognizes the Miniature American Shepherd as a separate breed, which many people call a mini Aussie. Check which breed a seller means, since toy and teacup Aussies are not AKC varieties.

Australian Shepherd lifespan and common health issues

The AKC gives an Australian Shepherd lifespan of 12 to 15 years and calls the breed generally healthy. It says responsible breeders test for hip dysplasia, epilepsy, cataracts and certain cancers, and recommends hip, elbow and eye evaluations.

VCA adds an important one: the MDR1 gene variant, which can cause serious reactions to some common medications, and recommends genetic testing. Tell every vet your dog is an Aussie, and ask whether an MDR1 test is worthwhile before any new medicine. Ask breeders for parent hip, elbow and eye results, and see a vet promptly for limping, cloudy eyes or a seizure.

Exercise needs

The AKC says the Aussie needs a great deal of exercise every day, and at minimum a large fenced yard to run in for at least an hour or two daily. Long walks and hikes with their person are favorites, and adults whose skeletons are fully grown make good running partners.

Physical exercise alone is not enough. The AKC's advice is to give the Aussie a job, whether herding, agility, obedience, flyball or trick training. Mental work such as scent games and puzzle toys tires them out far more efficiently than another lap of the yard.

Australian Shepherd grooming and shedding

The waterproof double coat needs weekly brushing most of the year, according to the AKC. During shedding season, the AKC suggests an undercoat rake every two or three days to clear the dead hair, followed by a wire brush. Shedding is rated three out of five but comes in heavy seasonal bursts.

Aussies often come in dirtier than they went out, but they rarely need frequent baths. Check the ears regularly for debris and wax, as the AKC advises, trim nails, and brush teeth. VCA lists sun-related skin inflammation among breed concerns, so watch pale noses in strong sun.

Training an Australian Shepherd

The AKC calls early socialization and obedience training musts, and notes that one of the most common reasons Aussies end up in rescue is that owners did not channel their energy through training. The good news is that they learn quickly and love to work with you.

Use reward-based training and keep it varied, because they bore easily. Teach a reliable recall, a settle on a mat and an off-switch, as well as polite alternatives to nipping heels. Herding instinct is normal, but it needs redirecting toward toys and games rather than children or bikes.

Are Australian Shepherds good with kids and other pets?

The AKC rates the Aussie five out of five with young children, and many are devoted family dogs. VCA notes they are generally good with supervision but may herd, which can mean circling, bumping or nipping at running children. Teach calm play and supervise young kids.

With other dogs the AKC rating is three out of five, and VCA says they are usually compatible with proper introduction. They may try to herd cats and other pets, so early, calm exposure and plenty of outlets for the herding drive help keep the peace.

What an Australian Shepherd needs at home

Think space, structure and things to do. Useful kit includes a secure fence, a well-fitted harness and a long training line, a crate for rest, puzzle feeders and durable toys such as balls and herding balls, and an agility or training set if you have room.

For grooming, an undercoat rake, a slicker or pin brush and nail clippers cover most needs. Book a vet visit soon after bringing your Aussie home and ask about the MDR1 test, vaccines and when it is safe to start running together.

This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.