Dog breeds :
Aussie / Australian Shepherd Dog / Berger Australien / Perro Pastor Australiano
Leesway Levi Blues, owner: Hayley Morrah
General
The Australian Shepherd is a well-balanced dog of medium
size and bone. He is attentive and animated, showing strength and stamina combined
with unusual agility. Slightly longer than tall, he has a coat of moderate length and
coarseness with coloring that offers variety and individuality in each specimen. An
identifying characteristic is his natural or docked bobtail. In each sex, masculinity or
femininity is well defined.
Characteristics
The Australian Shepherd is intelligent, primarily a working dog of strong
herding and guardian instincts. He is an exceptional companion. He is versatile and
easily trained, performing his assigned tasks with great style and enthusiasm. He is
reserved with strangers but does not exhibit shyness. Although an aggressive,
authoritative worker, viciousness toward people or animals is intolerable.
Temperament
The Australian Shepherd is an intelligent, active dog with an even
disposition, he is good natured, seldom quarrelsome. They may be somewhat reserved
in initial meetings.
History
While there are many theories as to the origin of the
Australian Shepherd, the breed as we know it today, developed exclusively in the
United States. The Australian Shepherd was given its name because of the
association with Basque Sheepherders who came to the United States from Australia
in the 1800's.
The Australian Shepherd's popularity rose steadily with the boom of western
horseback riding after World War II which became known to the general public via
rodeos, horse shows, movies and television shows. Their inherent versatile and
trainable personality made them assets to American farms and ranches. The American
stockman continued the development of the breed, maintaining its versatility, keen
intelligence, strong herding instincts and eye-catching appearance that originally won
their admiration.
Although each individual is unique in colour and markings, all Australian Shepherds
show an unsurpassed devotion to their families. Their many attributes have
guaranteed the Australian Shepherd's continued popularity.
Origin
United States of America
Utilization
Herding
Classification
Sheepdogs and Cattledogs
Size
Medium
Height
Preferred height at the withers for males is 20 to 23 inches; that for females is 18 to 21 inches
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