The Miniature American Shepherd is a popular choice among riders who travel to equestrian shows, as their intelligence, loyalty and size make them an ideal companion. However, the term 'Australian Dog' is commonly used to refer to the Australian Shepherd, but there are a variety of other native breeds such as Kelpies, Koolies and Australian Cattle Dogs. These breeds are known for their high energy levels and are perfect for active households. The Australian Shepherd was developed in California during the 1900s and is renowned for its intelligence and loyalty. They are great at watching large herds and can work for long periods of time.
They are also very trainable and can be used as guide dogs, exercise companions or family pets. They excel in agility and obedience sports, making them a great choice for those who enjoy outdoor activities. Australian Shepherds are best suited to families with an active lifestyle and a large fenced yard. They need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to avoid boredom. They can weigh between 35-70 pounds and have an average lifespan of 12-13 years.
If you have the time to offer them the exercise, stimulation and training they need, then an Australian working breed might be ideal for you. On the other hand, the Australian Cattle Dog with a chubby tail (also known as a stubby tail heel) has a naturally curled tail and stays square in shape with its legs quite long below the body, according to Aramendi. This breed is known as an American breed rather than an Australian breed despite its name. It has plenty of energy and is intelligent enough to excel in off-leash activities. However, these high-energy dogs may not be suitable for first-time dog owners or those with a more sedentary lifestyle. The Arabian Bull, also known as the Australian Pig Dog, is a pig hunting dog developed to locate pigs miles away, throw them to the ground and hold them by the ear.
This breed is not suitable for those who prefer a more relaxed lifestyle. Australian Shepherds are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections such as parvovirus, rabies and distemper. The Koolie is another native Australian breed that has been around since the early 19th century when it was bred from imported British working dogs. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms which can be a clear sign that your Australian Shepherd needs help. That doesn't mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that he's more at risk than other dogs.
