Australian Shepherd
Also known as Berger Australien · Australischer Schaferhund · Perro Pastor Australiano
United States of America, Sheepdogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 46–58 cm
- Weight
- 16–32 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Intelligent
- Energetic
- Loyal
- Biddable
- Alert
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is a medium-sized herding dog developed in the western United States, despite its name. It was bred as a ranch dog for herding livestock. It is athletic and well balanced, with a medium-length weather-resistant coat in blue merle, red merle, black or red, often with white and tan markings. Some are born with a naturally short tail.
Temperament
Intelligent, energetic and loyal, often with a strong herding instinct that may show as chasing or nipping at heels. Can be wary of strangers. Thrives on training and a job to do.
Exercise
Needs lots of daily exercise and mental work, such as agility, obedience, herding or long active outings.
Grooming
Medium-length double coat with feathering that needs brushing two or three times a week, more in moult.
Care & wellbeing
Keep them mentally busy and avoid isolating them for long periods.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 24 kg adult- Water
- 960 ml–1.4 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,210 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Australian Shepherd
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd was developed in the western United States as a versatile ranch herding dog. Its ancestors included herding dogs that came with shepherds from Europe and Australia. Intelligent, athletic and responsive, it needs plenty of exercise and mental work.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- MDR1 drug sensitivity
- Hip dysplasia
- Collie eye anomaly
- Epilepsy
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- MDR1 DNA test
- Hip and elbow scores
- Eye tests
Not every Australian Shepherd is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Australian Shepherd right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Australian Shepherd get?
Adult Australian Shepherds typically stand about 46–58 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 16–32 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Australian Shepherds live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Australian Shepherd need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Australian Shepherd need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Australian Shepherds easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Australian Shepherds shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Australian Shepherds good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Australian Shepherd live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Australian Shepherds have?
The breed can be prone to mdr1 drug sensitivity, hip dysplasia, collie eye anomaly. Not every Australian Shepherd is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- United States of America
- Type
- Sheepdogs
- Internationally recognised
- 2007