With its dazzling merle coat, boundless energy and impressive intelligence, the Australian shepherds turns heads wherever it goes. But you might be surprised to learn that despite its name, there's nothing Aussie about this dog at all! Find out more about how this iconic breed got its name – and whether it might be the dog for you.
What is an Australian shepherd – and do they originate from Australia?
Despite the name, the Australian shepherd breed was developed in California in the 19th century, partly from Spanish mountain dogs, but also from collies shipped from Australia and New Zealand. They were prized for herding cattle and bison.
They have ears softer than a chinchilla’s tum, beautiful black, grey and white coats (known in the biz as blue merle), sometimes with a touch of copper trim, and lovely thick fur. One in five are born with stumpy tails. Walking around your neighbourhood, your Aussie shepherd will be showered with compliments that will make your heart swell preposterously with pride.
OK, so why are they called Australian shepherds then?
You're right, "Australian shepherd" is something of a misnomer. The name comes from their association with sheep and herding dogs that were imported from Australia to the US in the 1800s. Basque sheep herders came to the US from Australia at this time. They had migrated from the Spanish Pyrenees to Australia for grazing, and then were brought onto California with the sheep. In fact, they are more Spanish than they are Australian! Their roots lie with Pyrenean Shepherds.
How much exercise does an Australian shepeherd need?
My Australian shepherd, Dakota, gets three walks a day (a minimum of two hours’ exercise) that ideally includes racing around off the lead with other dogs, plus time in our dog-proof garden.
She can’t be let loose around livestock (more training required) and will chase deer, pheasants and squirrels – in vain.
Australian shepherds thrive with a mix of physical exertion and mental stimulation, enjoying running and playing games like fetch.
Are Australian Shepherds easy to train?
With proper socialisation and training, Aussie Shepherds can excel in various canine sports and activities, including obedience, agility, herding trials, and even search and rescue work.
In fact, Viking, a three-year-old Australian Shepherd from Solihull, Birmingham, and co-owned by Melanie Raymond, John Shaw and Kerry Kirtley, claimed the Pastoral Group title at Crufts 2024 and went on to be crowned Best in Show. The second of its breed to earn the title of Best in Show, he beat 24,000 dogs from around the world to claim the show’s top honour.
Do Australian shepherds make good pets?
The words energetic, lively and sociable all spring to mind. As does bumptious. They are medium-sized, like a standard labrador, weighing up to about 25kg, and adore cold weather and paddling in streams. Though not aggressive, I’d think twice about getting one if I had very young children because of their bouncy approach.
They can be left on her own, but boredom can kick in after a few hours.
In short, Aussie shepherds make excellent family pets, but only if you have the time and energy to give them the love and stimulation they need.
What colours do Australian shepherds come in?
You'll find Australian shepherds in one of the following standard colours:
- Black
- Blue merle
- Red
- Red merle
The merle is a mottled pattern with contrasting shades of blue or red.
Find out more
Check out our expert guides to popular dog breeds, including cocker spaniels and Irish red and white setter, as well as the 10 rarest dog breeds in the UK.
