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Introduction
Commonly known as the Aussie, the Australian Shepherd Dog is a breed of herding dog. The Aussie is considered one of the most desired dogs among dog breeds for its versatility and trainability. Australian Shepherd Dogs routinely perform sports and physical related activities due to their agility and pleasant natures. The Australian Shepherd Dog is known to be one of the most obedient dog breeds. 

History
Thought to have originated in Australia, by most, the Australian Shepherd Dog was developed in the United States. The Australian Shepherd receives its name from "because some of the Australian sheepdogs arrived in the United States with boatloads of Australian sheep. The breed rose gradually in popularity with the boom of western riding after World War I." ("Vanished Trials and Faded Memories of Australian Shepherd History," 2007)  They became known to the general public through movies, television shows and rodeos.

General characteristics
The Australian Shepherd is known to be one of the friendlier dogs to own. Easily trainable and sophisticated in their demeanor, this dog breed is highly energetic and fun to be around. "An Australian shepherd enjoys working, whether it is learning and practicing tricks, competing in dog agility, or engaging in any other physically and mentally involving activity." ("Is the Australian Shepherd Right for you?" 2011) While most dogs need to warm up to their respective owners, Australian Shepherds are friendly towards humans. The Australian Shepherds are very intelligent, as most dog breeds are.  Sometimes called "the worker dog," Australian Shepherds are known to be on ranches and on ranch-styled lands as they tend to be highly protective of their habitat and eager to participate in a plethora of activities.  Australian Shepherds constantly need attention however from their owners. If they are not provided that attention, the Australian Shepherd can potentially be disparaging in their demeanors and mind-set. "This loyal and obedient companion is a bit reserved with strangers but is very protective and an excellent watchdog for its owners. Naturally being a herder, it may try to herd children when playing, and may even nip when trying to herd. They make great companions for singles, families, ranchers, and those who enjoy the outdoors. ("Australian Shepherd," n.d.)

General Appearance
Australian Shepherds come in a variety of colors. The color spectrum of this dog breed ranges from red to black to tan. All Australian Shepherds tend to have copper type markings that indicate that they are truly an Aussie. Color combinations are possible with Aussies. The color domination depends on the specific genes in the makeup of the Australian Shepherd itself. Here is a list of many different types of Australian Shepherds that exist. "Australian shepherds have a double coat. The quantity of undercoat varies with climate. The coat is of medium texture, straight to slightly wavy, weather resistant, of moderate length with an undercoat." ("Australian Shepherd - Breed Information," 2011)

"Red (Liver) with or without tan points and/or white markings on the face, collar, legs, chest, underbelly. Either white or tan points are required. Solid Red dogs are equally desirable as ones with tan and/or white.  Black, with tan points and/or white markings on the face, collar, legs, chest, underbelly. Solid black dogs are equally desirable as ones with tan and/or white. Blue Merle (a mottled patchwork of gray and black) with or without tan points and/or white markings on the face, collar, legs, chest, underbelly. Neither white nor tan points are required. Solid Merle dogs are equally desirable as ones with tan and/or white. Red Merle (a mottled patchwork of cream and liver red) with or without tan points and/or white markings on the face, collar, legs, chest, underbelly. Neither white nor tan points are required. Solid Merle dogs are equally desirable as ones with tan and/or white "("Basic Body Colors of the Australian Shepherd," 2011)

All black and blue Australian Shepherds exhibit black noses, while their red counterparts display brown noses. Australian Shepherd eye color is quite possibly one of the most fascinating aspects of their appearance. Many Australian Shepherds have two different eye colors and are often called "split" eyed or "ghost" eyed dogs.  Other than the eyes, the tails of Australian Shepherds are their highlight. Some Australian Shepherds have tails that are bobbed in appearance, while others display stout or lengthy tails.

Size and Proportion
Australian Shepherds have a strong body build and are medium sized puppies. One will rarely find a large Australian Shepherd dog. "The ASCA standard calls for the Australian shepherd to stand between 18-23 inches at the withers, females being 18-21 inches and males measuring 20-23 inches, however, quality is not to be sacrificed in favor of size."  ("Australian Shepherd Breed Standard," 1977)

 General Health
The most common health issues that Australian Shepherds encounter are vision, back and hip problems. Merle Australian Shepherds are also prone to being born blind or deaf. "Based on a sample of 48 still-living dogs, the most common health issues noted by owners were eye problems (red eye, epiphora, conjunctivitis, and cataracts). Dermatologic and respiratory problems are also ranked high. Collie eye anomaly (CEA) and cataracts are considered major health concerns in Aussies. Other conditions include iris coloboma, canine hip dysphasia (CHD), Pelger-Huet syndrome, hypothyroidism, and nasal solar dermatitis. A veterinarian should test your Australian Shepherd's hips, eyes, thyroid and DNA. Blue merle shepherds of the miniature variety are known for a markedly short lifespan, usually from 5-7 years.

The Australian Shepherd, as well as Collies, German Shepherds and many other herding dogs, is susceptible to toxicity from common heartworm preventatives (anti-parasitics) and other drugs. This is caused by a genetic mutation of the MDR1 gene. The most common toxicity is from the heartworm medicine Ivermectin found in products such as Heartgard. Results of a 1998 internet survey with a sample size of 614 Australian Shepherds indicated a median longevity of about 12.5 years, but also that longevity may be declining. A 2004 UK survey found a much shorter median longevity of 9 years, but their sample size was low (22 deceased dogs). The median life spans for breeds similar in size to Australian Shepherds are mostly between 11 and 13 yrs. Assuming the results of the UK study are not representation of the population there, Aussies appear to have a typical life span for a breed their size. Leading causes of death in the UK survey were cancer (32%), "combinations" (18%), and old age (14%)." ("Australian Shepherd," 2011)

Maintenance and Care
Australian Shepherds are relatively easy to care for but require a lot of maintenance. "Most Aussies have very short coats, and only shed for a few weeks, in early spring. You'll need a good brush to collect the "fallout." ("Australian Sheppard's: High Energy, High Maintenance," 2011) "Keeping your Australian Shepherd groomed is not only important to his/her appearance, but to his/her health as well. Regular grooming of your Australian Shepherd can control parasites in addition to improving general appearance. Grooming of your Australian Shepherd is a good time to check the condition of your Australian Shepherd's skin, eyes, ears, coat and teeth." ("Australian Shepherd Grooming Maintenance," 2011) Nutrition is also an important component in the Australian Shepherd's life. Speaking with a veterinarian is essential when deciding upon whether to feed your Australian Shepherd, dry or wet dog food. "Australian Shepherds tend to do well on a basic adult maintenance diet until about 9 to 10 years of age. " ("Building Blocks to a Healthy Australian Shepherd," 2011)

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