Ten most asked questions about the Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd has become very popular in the last couple of years. Currently, they are the 12th most popular dog breed in the United States. As the Australian Shepherd’s fame grows, more people search the web for information about this lovely breed. I’ve compiled a list of the ten most asked questions about the Australian Shepherd, so you won’t have to wander the internet for answers.

Ten most asked questions about the Australian Shepherd

So, according to my research, this is what people want to know about the majestic Aussie:

• Where are Australian shepherd dogs from?
• How much do Australian Shepherds cost?
• Are Australian Shepherds good family dogs
• How smart are Australian Shepherds?
• Do Australian Shepherd shed a lot?
• Are Australian Shepherds high maintenance?
• How big is the Australian shepherd?
• Are Australian Shepherds easy to train?
• Are Australian Shepherds easy to train?
• Can Australian Shepherd live outside?

Now, let’s go ahead and answer these questions.

Where are Australian Shepherds from?

Contrary to popular belief, the Australian Shepherd is not Australian. Instead, The Aussie is an authentic American breed. This might sound not very clear due to the breed’s name, but it will become logical once you know the Aussie’s history.

The story of the Aussie began in Europe when the Basque people migrated from Spain to Australia, where they took their Pyrenean Shepherd dogs. These dogs crossbred with the Border Collies, already roaming the Australian plains. The result of their mating was the predecessor of the modern Aussie.

Thanks to the gold rush, these dogs found their way to the shores of California. The local ranchers spotted the intelligent, hard worker immediately. And since they came from Australia, the cowboys named them Australian Shepherds. However, the complete development of the breed occurred in the United States, making the Aussie a purely American breed.

How much do Australian Shepherds cost?

If you want to buy an Australian Shepherd, expect to pay the price between $300 and $2,000. However, the median price for a satisfactory sample will range from $600 to $900. The price is affected by many factors, such as the pedigree, parentage, breeder reputation, health or dog colour.

As for the monthly costs for maintaining an Aussie Shepherd, expect to spend somewhere between $100 and $150. The fees will be higher in the first year of the dog’s life due to vaccines, training and healthier food.

Are Australian Shepherds good family dogs?

Yes, the Australian Shepherd makes a great family dog. These pups are loyal, loving, playful and entertaining. The Aussie will make an excellent addition to your household with proper training and socialisation.

Aussies are good with children or other animals. They also have a protective trait and will always bark if they feel an approaching danger. Australian Shepherds are very intelligent and easy to train. However, they require a ton of exercise. Therefore, Aussies belong to active families with plenty of time.

How intelligent are Australian Shepherds?

Australian Shepherds are intelligent creatures. Out of 360 recognised breeds, they rank as the 42nd most intelligent. In human terms, the Australian Shepherd possesses an above-average intelligence. Combined with their instincts and eagerness to learn, they are something special.

These dogs have proven to be able to learn a plethora of tricks. The average Australian Shepherd needs 15 to 25 repetitions before learning to obey a command, which is better than most breeds.

Besides high IQ, Aussies also possess emotional intelligence. This trait makes them suitable to work as emotional support dogs or therapy dogs. They’re social, tireless, exuberant and affectionate. However, they have a protective trait, which you must pay attention to during training.

Does the Australian Shepherd shed a lot?

The Aussie Shepherd sheds a lot. They shed throughout the entire year. However, there are two heavy shedding periods: autumn and fall. It would help to brush the Aussie once a week during regular flaking and once a day in shedding season.

Bathing is done once a month or when the dog gets dirty. Nail trimming is another monthly activity. However, due to their activity level, Aussies take care of their nails by themselves.

Are Australian Shepherds high maintenance?

The Australian Shepherd is a high-maintenance dog breed. Many sources consider the Aussie one of the highest maintenance dogs breeds. Owning an Aussie can be tricky and highly time-consuming.

This brilliant, high-energy pup demands lots of care. If you are a person that has limited time for a dog, the Australian Shepherd is not your best choice. From their physical and mental health to grooming and exercising, Aussies require a dedicated owner. 

How big is the Australian shepherd?

The Australian Shepherd is a medium-sized dog. The male specimens are 19 to 22 inches tall, while the girl Aussies stand at 18 to 20 inches. The males are also heavier, with 50 to 65 pounds of weight. Female Australian Shepherd’s weightiness ranges from 40 to 55 pounds.

Are Australian Shepherds easy to train?

Yes, Australian Shepherds are easy to train. They’re intelligent, obedient, easygoing and energetic. As such, training these pups should be a fun experience. Aussies are eager to learn, and they do it quick. However, this does not mean you will train your Aussie in a day. Aussies are time-consuming dogs. Also, training an Aussie requires a unique approach due to its high intelligence. Aussies are instinctive dogs that might act on their own. Therefore, you have to establish ground rules at the beginning of the training.

Besides being intelligent, the Australian Shepherd is also clever. Unfortunately, these dogs are notorious for trying to outsmart an unsuspecting owner. So, if you’re a first-time dog owner, maybe you should go for another breed or employ a professional trainer. However, if you’ve decided to train your Aussie on your own, you must respect specific rules.

Can Australian Shepherd live outside?

Australian Shepherds can sleep outside. However, if you want your dog to sleep in the yard, accommodate it adequately. Place the doghouse in a place not directly affected by the wind or the sun. Make sure the dog has an uninterrupted supply of drinking water.

The Aussie is equipped with a double coat. The inner coat is fluffy and dense, and it serves as an insulator. The outer layer is wavy and waterproofs the dog. Therefore, the Australian Shepherd is well prepared to cope with the scorching sun and the freezing winters.

However, they do better when sleeping near their owners due to their personalities. So, if possible, place the dog inside the home. The Aussie will be forever grateful.