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7 Facts About Australian Shepherds You Probably Didn’t Know

Written by: Arlene D.
| Published on May 18, 2023

Despite their name, Australian Shepherds (or “Aussies” as they’re fondly called) have a history as rich and diverse as the landscapes they have herded in, which, surprisingly, don’t include Australia! These dogs, known for their striking eyes and enthusiastic spirit, are beloved around the world. Let’s explore seven lesser-known facts about this intelligent and active breed.

  1. American Roots, Not Australian

Contrary to what their name suggests, Australian Shepherds didn’t originate from Australia. They were developed on American ranches in the 19th century. The breed’s misleading name is believed to be linked to Basque shepherds who came to the U.S. from Australia.

  1. Heterochromatic Heroes

Aussies are known for their beautiful, sometimes mismatched eyes. This trait, called heterochromia, is not uncommon in the breed. An Aussie might have one blue eye and one brown eye, or even “split” or “marbled” eyes that contain two colors in the same iris. This distinctive trait adds to their unique charm.

  1. Prodigious Work Ethic

Australian Shepherds are not just all good looks. These dogs are renowned for their exceptional herding abilities and impressive intelligence. They excel in various dog sports such as obedience, agility, and flyball. Their energetic nature and quick learning capability make them great working dogs beyond just traditional herding roles.

  1. Born Tailless… Sometimes

One surprising fact about Aussies is that some are born with naturally bobbed tails, while others have their tails docked when they are puppies. This characteristic was historically practical, as a shorter tail was less likely to get injured while the dog was working. However, it’s worth noting that tail docking is considered controversial and is banned in several countries today.

  1. Coat Color Galore

Aussies have incredibly diverse coat colors and patterns. They can be black, red (liver), blue merle (marbled grey and black), or red merle (marbled liver and cream). This diversity makes each Aussie unique and further contributes to their popularity among dog lovers.

  1. Life-Savers on Four Legs

Due to their intelligence, agility, and keen senses, Australian Shepherds often excel as search-and-rescue dogs. They have been involved in numerous search operations, helping locate missing persons in various terrains. Their contribution in such life-saving operations is an impressive testament to their abilities.

  1. Stars of the Silver Screen

Aussies have a history of performing in films and rodeos. Their distinctive looks, coupled with their trainability, have made them popular in Hollywood. One of the most famous Australian Shepherds is ‘Higgins’, who starred in the classic film “Benji”. Their high energy levels also make them crowd favorites at rodeos, often seen herding livestock during events.

In conclusion, Australian Shepherds are a breed full of surprises. From their unique appearance and American origin to their versatile capabilities, there’s so much more to these dogs than meets the eye. While they require lots of exercises and mental stimulation, their intelligence, loyalty, and hard-working nature make them excellent companions for the right individual or family. This deeper understanding of the breed surely enhances the appreciation for these delightful dogs.

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