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Australian Shepherd Dog Breed
The Australian Shepherd, although reserved with strangers, is a loyal, affectionate, and playful dog that is good with children if socialized with them early. The Aussie is good natured and even tempered, he has become known not only for his herding abilities but also for tracking, narcotics detection, search-and-rescue, and hearing dogs for the deaf.
The Australian Shepherd dog's heritage as a dog bred primarily for working ability rather than looks resulted in a breed with a wide variety of different but equally correct types. This is a very intelligent working breed with strong herding and guarding instincts. He is a very easily trained, intelligent, enthusiastic worker and a friendly, playful companion. Given adequate amount of mental and physical exercise during the day, the Aussie is calm and well-mannered indoors. He makes excellent watchdog and will guard his family's property. Aussies usually get along with other household pets and children. Because of their strong herding instincts, some Aussies will try and herd family pets and children by nipping at their heels or grasping their hands.
Aussies are generally a healthy and hardy breed commonly reaching the age of 12 or more. Like many collie-type breeds, they have several genetic eye problems including cataracts, colobomas and collie eye anomaly (CEA), distichiasis, PRA and retinal dysplasia. Responsible breeders only breed the stock that has been cleared of any eye disorders. Litters usually consist of 5-8 puppies. If trained early, they are easy to keep indoors, becoming good companion dogs.
A Field Guide To Coloration of Australian Shepherds
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