Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd is a breed of herding dog from the United States. The name of the breed is technically a misnomer, as it was developed in California in the 19th century, although it has its origins in Asturias, in the northwest of Spain; the breed was unknown in Australia at the time. It is claimed that Australian Shepherds descend from a variety of herding breeds, including collies imported, alongside sheep, from Australia and New Zealand; the breed reportedly took its name from this trade. Originally used solely as a herding dog, the Australian Shepherd has become one of the most popular companion dog breeds in North America.

This article is about the American-developed breed of dog. For the unrelated breed developed in Australia which has a similar name, see Australian Cattle Dog.
Australian Shepherd
OriginUnited States
Traits
Height Males 20–23 in (51–58 cm)
Females 18–21 in (46–53 cm)
Weight 35–70 lb (16–32 kg)
Coat Moderately long double coat
Color Blue or red merle, solid black or red, and/or white markings and/or tan points or a mixture of all
Kennel club standards
American Kennel Club standard
United Kennel Club standard
Fédération Cynologique Internationale standard
Dog (domestic dog)
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