A dog resembling an Australian Shepherd with a long fur coat is panting while sitting in a grassy area near a tranquil body of water, mountains rising majestically in the background.

7 Unique & Inspiring Facts About the Australian Shepherd!

March 17th, 2020 by Andrey

Last Updated on May 5, 2024

The Aussie Shepherd will create a strong bond with you over time and become your devoted friend; you will find some interesting facts about the Australian Shepherd you’ve probably never heard of.

The Australian Shepherd has gained immense popularity worldwide due to its loyal, intelligent and energetic nature. However, the facts show that Australian Shepherd is a loving and caring animal. This pet is an excellent working dog.

1. The Australian Shepherd Doesn’t Come From Australia

There are still many questions regarding this fabulous breed’s history. The name of the breed makes people believe that it originates in Australia. But that’s not exactly true. It is commonly believed that these dogs first appeared in the Basque region of Spain. Local Shepherds used the dogs for herding purposes. In the late 1880s, those Shepherds came to the United States for work. They took the route through Australia, where they stayed for some time before reaching the USA.

2. The Australian Shepherds Have Penetrating Eyes

The Australian Shepherds usually have pale blue eyes. However, these fantastic animals may also have eyes of such colours as:

  • Hazel
  • Brown
  • Amber
  • Green

The Aussie is a unique breed that may have eyes of different colours. This condition is known as heterochromia. Sometimes these dogs have marbled eyes. That means that each eye can be a mix of several colours.

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3. Most Australian Shepherds Have Merle Coats

Today, you can find Australian Shepherds in different colours. However, only four colours have been officially recognised:

  • Black
  • Red
  • red merle
  • blue merle

Blue merle Australian Shepherds are very popular, while black puppies are often last picked from a litre.

4. The Australian Shepherds Have No Tails

Herding is hard work that requires a lot of energy and attention. Long tails and ears could prevent the Aussies from doing their job correctly. That is the main reason many Shepherds docked their dogs’ tails and ears. It helped the dogs avoid injuries while herding cattle. Today, some Australian Shepherds are born with naturally bobbed tails.

5. The Australian Shepherd Is an Extremely Intelligent Breed

Australian Shepherds are incredibly intelligent, needing to anticipate the movements of whatever they are herding. They are also very active and need daily activity to stay healthy. If your Australian Shepherd does not engage in herding, they can do several other jobs to provide the mental and physical stimulation they need. These animals have not just devoted companions. Their extraordinary problem-solving skills allow them to become brilliant search and rescue dogs. Plus, the Aussies make excellent therapy dogs.

6. The Australian Shepherds Like To Swim

It’s well known that the Aussies like physical activity very much. Swimming is one of their favourite activities. Most Australian Shepherds love to swim. Your Aussie may be afraid of water at first. But the dog will soon overcome its fears and become an excellent swimmer.

7. The Australian Shepherds Are Great Jumpers

If you are planning to bring the Aussie home, you should know that this dog is not just a good swimmer but an excellent jumper. The Australian Shepherd can jump as high as 90-120 cm. Keep this information in mind when you start building a fence.

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The Australian Shepherd is perfect for people who want a faithful friend and loyal companion. The facts about this dog remind you that they will always be next to you and make your life even better.