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{{short description|Breed of dog}} |
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{{about|the American-developed breed of dog|the unrelated breed developed in Australia which has a similar name|Australian Cattle Dog}} |
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{| border=1 cellspacing=0 align=right cellpadding=2 |
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{{Infobox dog breed |
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|- align=center bgcolor=pink |
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| name = Australian Shepherd |
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| image = Australian Shepherd red bi.JPG |
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|- align=center |
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| image_alt = |
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|[[Image:AustrShepTri_wb.jpg|thumb|250px|none|Black tricolor Australian Shepherd on an agility pause table]] |
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| image_caption = |
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|- align=center bgcolor=pink |
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| image2 = |
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!Alternative names |
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| image_alt2 = |
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|- |
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| image_caption2 = |
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| altname = |
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{| align=center |
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| nickname = |
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|- |
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| stock = |
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|''none'' |
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| country = [[United States]] |
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|} |
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<!-----Traits-----> |
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|- align=center bgcolor=pink |
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| height = |
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!Country of origin |
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| maleheight = {{cvt|20|–|23|in|cm}} |
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|- align=center |
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| femaleheight = {{cvt|18|–|21|in|cm}} |
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|[[United States]] |
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| weight = {{cvt|35|–|70|lb|kg}} |
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|- align=center bgcolor=pink |
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| maleweight = |
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!Classification |
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| femaleweight = |
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|- |
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| coat = Moderately long double coat |
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| |
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| color = Blue or red merle, solid black or red, and/or white markings and/or tan points or a mixture of all |
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{| align=center |
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| litter_size = |
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|[[Fédération Cynologique Internationale|FCI]]: || Group 1 Section 1 (Provisional) |
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| life_span = |
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|- |
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<!-----Kennel club standards-----> |
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|[[American Kennel Club|AKC]]: || Herding |
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| kc_name = [[American Kennel Club]] |
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|- |
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| kc_std = http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/AustralianShepherd.pdf |
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|[[Australian National Kennel Council|ANKC]]: || Group 5 (Working Dogs) |
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| kc2_name = [[United Kennel Club]] |
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|- |
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| kc2_std = https://www.ukcdogs.com/docs/breeds/australian-shepherd.pdf |
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|[[Canadian Kennel Club|CKC]]: || Group 7 - Herding Dogs |
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| fcistd = http://www.fci.be/Nomenclature/Standards/342g01-en.pdf |
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|- |
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<!-----Notes-----> |
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|[[Kennel Club (UK)|KC(UK)]]: || Pastoral |
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| note = |
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|- |
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}} |
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|[[New Zealand Kennel Club|NZKC]]: || Working |
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|- |
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|} |
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|- align=center bgcolor=pink |
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!Breed standards (external links) |
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|- align=center |
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|[http://ediandra.wz.cz/history3.html FCI], [http://www.akc.org/breeds/recbreeds/ausshep.cfm AKC], [http://www.ankc.aust.com/austshep.html ANKC], [http://www.the-kennel-club.org.uk/discoverdogs/hound/austshep.htm KC(UK)], NZKC |
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|} |
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The '''Australian Shepherd''' is a [[Herding dog]] that was developed--despite its name--in the [[United States]] in the 19th century. The dog commonly known as an '''Aussie''' is popular in its native [[California]] and in countries across the world. |
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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. It is believed to have its origins in [[sheepdog]] breeds from northwest [[Spain]], as well as [[collie]]s 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. |
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[[Image:Australian_Shepherd_600.jpg|thumb|left|Blue merle Australian Shepherd]] |
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Like many herding breeds, it can have a lot of energy and drive and usually needs a job to do. It also often excels at [[dog sports]] such as [[disc dog|frisbee dog competitions]] and [[dog agility]]. |
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== |
==History== |
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[[File:Australian Shepherd Black Tri, Red Tri, Blue Merle.jpg|thumb|Three Australian Shepherds]] |
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The Australian Shepherd's history, and the reason for its name, are vague. Early [[settler]]s in the [[eastern United States]] imported many of their [[European]] herding dogs with them, including some breeds that are now extinct or that have merged into other breeds. These might have included the [[English Shepherd]], [[Dorset Blue Shag]], [[Cumberland Sheepdog]], [[Scottish Collie]], [[Glenwherry Collie]], and [[Bouvier des Flandres]], as well as dogs from [[Germany]] and [[Spain]]. Early shepherds cared more for dogs who worked flocks of sheeps well and less for specific appearance, so these dogs were interbred over time. Terrain and weather conditions in the eastern U.S. were similar to that of Europe, so existing breeds and their offspring worked well. |
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The Australian Shepherd descends in part from pastoral dogs brought to herd Spanish flocks in North America as early as the 1500s.<ref name="australianshepherds" /> There is some speculation that these dogs included the [[Carea Leonés]], a mountain sheepdog that can display the eye color and merle coat found in many contemporary Australian Shepherds.<ref name="australianshepherds">{{cite web |title=Australian Shepherd History |url=https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/australian-shepherd-history-behind-breed/ |website=American Kennel Club |publisher=AKC |access-date=20 August 2021 |archive-date=19 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210519162721/https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/australian-shepherd-history-behind-breed/ |url-status=live }}</ref> It is sometimes claimed that the [[Basque Shepherd Dog]] and the [[Pyrenean Sheepdog]] were also among the ancestors of the breed.{{r|Alderton|Morris}} The breed as it is known today developed in [[California]] in the 19th century, as a [[Herding dog|sheep herding]] dog for Californian shepherds.{{r|Alderton|Fogle|Morris}} The Australian Shepherd is also believed to be descended from a variety of herding dogs imported to California with imported sheep, including [[collie]]s from [[Australia]] and [[New Zealand]]. It was from these ancestors that the breed took its name.{{r|Fogle|Morris}} |
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The Australian Shepherd spread from California throughout the Western United States where it became extremely popular with ranchers who valued the breed's sheep working qualities, as well as their ability to handle cattle and other livestock.{{r|Morris}} A purely working breed for over a century, the Australian Shepherd was virtually unknown outside of the livestock industry until the mid-20th century when the breed was popularised by Jay Lister, a rodeo performer, at rodeos across the western states with his Australian Shepherds performing all manner of tricks.{{r|Palika}} A breed club was soon formed to promote the breed, the Australian Shepherd Club of America, and [[kennel club]] recognition followed in 1979 when the breed was recognised by the [[United Kennel Club]].{{r|Morris|UKC}} The breed was subsequently recognised by the [[American Kennel Club]] in the 1990s and later the [[Fédération Cynologique Internationale]].{{r|Alderton|Morris}} |
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In the [[western United States]], conditions were very different. In the primarily arid and semiarid areas inhabited sparsely by early Spanish settlers, temperatures reached extremes of hot and cold, and fields varied in altitude from sea level into the higher, rougher [[Sierra Nevada]]s and similar mountain ranges. Spanish shepherds, including [[Basque]]shepherds, and their herding dogs came with along with the Spanish missionaries and other settlers. |
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From the late-20th century the Australian Shepherd has increasingly been seen in [[conformation show]]s and it has become an extremely popular [[companion dog]]. In 2019 it was ranked by the American Kennel Club as the 15th most popular breed of dog in the United States.{{r|Morris}}<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/most-popular-dog-breeds-full-ranking-list/ |title=Most popular dog breeds – full ranking list |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=28 March 2019 |website=[[American Kennel Club]] |access-date=5 April 2021 |archive-date=28 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190228202011/https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/most-popular-dog-breeds-full-ranking-list/ |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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With the [[California gold rush|discovery of gold]] in California in 1849, a massive migration occurred from the east coast to the west coast, and along with the people came flocks of sheep and the eastern herding dogs. But it was just as effective to bring sheep in by ship, and in they came, including flocks from [[Australia]] along with Australian shepherds and their herding breeds, which had already begun to be selected and bred for climate and terrain that were quite similar to many parts of [[California]]. |
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==Description== |
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As shepherds worked to develop dogs who could handle stock in harsh storms, high arid heat, and chilling cold, and who could think on their own in challenging terrain, reacting instantly to the movement of sheep and to their handlers' commands, the type that became the Australian Shepherd was born. |
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===Appearance=== |
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[[File:Bvdb-australischeherder.jpg|thumb|right|Variations of Australian Shepherd colors]] |
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The Australian Shepherd is a medium-sized, athletic breed; they typically stand between {{convert|18|and|23|in|cm}} and weigh between {{convert|35|and|70|lb|kg}}.{{r|Alderton|Fogle}} The parent club, the Australian Shepherd Club of America's [[breed standard]] states male dogs should stand between {{convert|20|and|23|in|cm}} and females between {{convert|18|and|21|in|cm}}, at the withers; the standard does allow individual animals to exceed these limits slightly. |
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The Australian Shepherd has a moderately long and wavy double coat that has a dense undercoat and coarse topcoat; the coat is short on the face and well feathered on the rear of the legs.{{r|Fogle|Morris}} The breed is known for its unique colorations and variable coat patterns, it being said no two dogs sharing a coat.{{r|Morris}} The breed standard allows for blue [[Merle (dog coat)|merle]], red merle, solid black or solid red, with or without white markings and with or without tan points.{{r|UKC}} |
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==Appearance== |
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The coat comes in several color varieties—blue merle, black, red merle, and red—all with or without white markings and/or tan (copper) points. Dogs with tan and white along with the primary color are usually called ''tricolor''. |
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Examples of the breed can be born with long or [[Natural bobtail#Dogs|naturally bobbed (short) tails]];<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Hytönen |first1=Marjo K |last2=Grall |first2=Anaïs |last3=Hédan |first3=Benoît |date=2009-03-01 |title=Ancestral T-Box Mutation Is Present in Many, but Not All, Short-Tailed Dog Breeds |journal=Journal of Heredity |volume=100 |issue=2 |pages=236–240 |doi=10.1093/jhered/esn085 |pmid=18854372 |via=academic.com}}</ref> traditionally long tailed dogs had their tails [[Docking (dog)|docked]], although some countries outside of the United States do not allow docking and so some long tailed and partial bob tails are allowed to be exhibited in those countries. |
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The breed's general appearance also varies greatly depending on the particular line's emphasis. [[Show dog]] Aussies conform to a specific broad-chested, thick-coated, semi-drop-eared appearance. Aussies whose parents and other ancestors have been chosen primarily for their working ability have more variation in their appearance; for example, they might have longer legs, more upright ears, shorter coats, and so on. As with many working breeds that are also [[Dog show|shown in the ring]], there are differences of opinion among breeders over what makes an ideal Australian Shepherd. |
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[[Image:AustrShepherdRed2 wb.jpg|thumb|left|Red tricolor Aussie with shorter coat and more upright ears]] |
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===Temperament=== |
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Reflecting the great variation that still exists in the breed, an Aussie can stand between 18 and 23 inches (46 to 58 cm) at the [[withers]] and weigh between 35 and 70 pounds (16 to 32 kg). For [[show dog]]s, females must fall in the lower heights and widths and males in the higher ranges. |
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The Australian Shepherd is described as intelligent, active, loyal, protective, playful, and adaptive.{{r|Alderton|Fogle|Morris}} The modern breed is predominantly bred for pets; despite this, many retain a strong herding instinct and it is not uncommon for companion dogs of the breed to try to herd children or other pets.{{r|Alderton|Palika}} A very active breed, the Australian Shepherd is known to become destructive if it does not receive adequate exercise.{{r|Alderton|Palika}} |
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==Health== |
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Australian Shepherds are generally a healthy breed, but they can have several health problems. Vision problems are common,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.asca.org/hereditarydefects |title=Hereditary Defects of the Australian Shepherd |publisher=Australian Shepherd Club of America, Inc. |access-date=April 3, 2011 |archive-date=April 3, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110403063442/http://www.asca.org/hereditarydefects |url-status=live }}</ref> and [[epilepsy]] is also a concern. Australian Shepherds can develop hip problems. In merle-to-merle breeding, the puppies that have inherited two copies of the merle gene have an increased risk of being born blind or deaf.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.asca.org/advancedarticles/canineepilepsy |title=Canine Epilepsy |publisher=Australian Shepherd Club of America, Inc. |year=1999 |access-date=April 3, 2011 |archive-date=April 30, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110430022150/http://www.asca.org/advancedarticles/canineepilepsy |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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A 2024 UK study found a median life expectancy of 13.7 years based on a sample of 62 deaths, which was above the median of 12.7 years for purebreeds and 12 years for [[Mongrel|crossbreeds]].<ref>{{cite journal | last=McMillan | first=Kirsten M. | last2=Bielby | first2=Jon | last3=Williams | first3=Carys L. | last4=Upjohn | first4=Melissa M. | last5=Casey | first5=Rachel A. | last6=Christley | first6=Robert M. | title=Longevity of companion dog breeds: those at risk from early death | journal=Scientific Reports | publisher=Springer Science and Business Media LLC | volume=14 | issue=1 | date=2024-02-01 | issn=2045-2322 | doi=10.1038/s41598-023-50458-w | page=| pmc=10834484 }}</ref> |
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===Morbidity === |
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Based on a sample of 48 still-living dogs, the most common health concerns noted by owners were eye problems (red eye, epiphora, conjunctivitis, and cataracts).<ref name="KC Survey">[http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/570 Kennel Club/British Small Animal Veterinary Association Scientific Committee] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130813043548/http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/570 |date=2013-08-13 }}. 2004. Purebred Dog Health Survey. Retrieved July 5, 2007</ref> Dermatological and respiratory problems also ranked high. |
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[[Collie eye anomaly]] (CEA) is rare in the breed, but it and [[cataracts]] are a concern in Australian Shepherds.<ref>{{cite web |title=Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) |url=http://www.asca.org/education/health/collieeyeanolomy |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716084319/http://www.asca.org/education/health/collieeyeanolomy |archive-date=July 16, 2011 |access-date=April 3, 2011 |publisher=Australian Shepherd Club of America, Inc.}}</ref> Other conditions of note include iris coloboma, [[canine hip dysplasia]], Pelger-Huet anomaly, [[Hypothyroidism in dogs|hypothyroidism]], and nasal solar dermatitis. Prior to breeding, the Australian Shepherd should be checked for hip and elbow dysplasia and DNA tests performed to show the dog to be free of the MDR1 mutation, cataract mutation, and CEA. Tests should also include those for thyroidism and clearances for other known eye diseases like colobomas, progressive retinal atrophy, and retinal folds. |
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Some Australian Shepherds (as well as [[Collie]]s, [[German Shepherd]]s, and many other herding dogs) are susceptible to a genetic mutation of the ''MDR1'' gene.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ashgi.org/articles/mdr1.htm |title=MDR1 FAQs |publisher=Australian Shepherd Health & Genetics Institute, Inc. |access-date=April 3, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071213125320/http://www.ashgi.org/articles/mdr1.htm |archive-date=December 13, 2007 }}</ref> Dogs with the mutation can suffer toxicity from antiparasitics such as ivermectin in high doses, and other drugs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/depts-VCPL/drugs.aspx |title=Problem Drugs |publisher=Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine |date=December 8, 2010 |access-date=April 3, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110514201714/http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/depts-VCPL/drugs.aspx |archive-date=14 May 2011 |url-status=live }}</ref> A test is available to determine if a particular dog carries the mutated gene.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/depts-VCPL/test.aspx |title=Get Your Dog Tested |publisher=Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine |date=January 19, 2011 |access-date=April 3, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110429162752/http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/depts-VCPL/test.aspx |archive-date=29 April 2011 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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Australian Shepherds show relatively low levels (approximately 6%) of hip dysplasia, a heritable condition where the femur does not fit securely in the pelvic socket of the hip joint.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Loder |first1=Randall T. |last2=Todhunter |first2=Rory J. |date=2017-03-12 |title=The Demographics of Canine Hip Dysplasia in the United States and Canada |journal=Journal of Veterinary Medicine |language=en |volume=2017 |pages=1–15 |doi=10.1155/2017/5723476 |doi-access=free |issn=2356-7708 |pmc=5366211 |pmid=28386583}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+2084&aid=444|title=Hip Dysplasia in Dogs: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention|website=www.peteducation.com|access-date=2016-05-12|archive-date=2016-03-29|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160329203734/http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?aid=444&c=2+2084|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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===Double merle=== |
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[[File:Eyes of a lethal white Australian Shepherd.jpg|thumb|right|An example of an abnormal eye of a double merle, "lethal white", Australian Shepherd: The abnormally small left eye is known as [[microphthalmia]], and the pupil shows signs of [[subluxation]] which is dropped, not centered.]] |
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Double merle or [[homozygous]] merle occurs when the offspring of two merled parents inherit two copies of the dominant merle gene. The odds of this are 25% for each pup born from such a litter.<ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite web |url=http://www.asca.org/advancedarticles/whitedeafness |title=White-linked Deafness in Australian Shepherds |publisher=Australian Shepherd Club of America, Inc. |year=1998 |access-date=April 3, 2011 |archive-date=January 8, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110108170655/http://www.asca.org/advancedarticles/whitedeafness |url-status=live }}</ref> Double merles often have excessive light or white areas and can have hearing and vision problems as a result of having two copies of the merle gene.<ref name=":0">{{Cite book|title=Australian Shepherd Bible and the Australian Shepherd : Your Perfect Australian Shepherd Guide Covers Australian Shepherds, Australian Shepherd Puppies, Australian Shepherd Training, Mini Australian Shepherds, Australian Shepherd Breeders, Size, Health, More!|last=Mark.|first=Manfield|isbn=9781911355564|location=Milano|oclc=1005140424|date = 2017-05-13}}</ref> Homozygous merles can be deaf or blind, or express iris [[coloboma]]s, [[retinal detachment]], [[cataract]]s, [[persistent pupillary membrane]], a displacement of the lens, equatorial [[staphyloma]], [[night blindness]] and [[microphthalmia]]. Audio impairment or deafness usually develops after the birth of a puppy with their ear canal still closed. The white color of double merles is produced due to the lack of [[melanocyte]]s which provide high [[potassium]] levels in the [[endolymph]] surrounding the cochlea's hair cells. There is no surgery or treatment that can reduce the damage. Loss of hearing is directly linked to the amount of pigmentation cells a dog has. The same pigment that is lacking in the ear can also be lacking in the eyes, affecting its development. Although many believe that only dogs with blue eyes have eye problems, it is not correct. Due to the contrast between eye problems and blue eyes, eye conditions in blue-eyed dogs are much easier to spot.<ref name=":0" /> |
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Not all homozygous merles are affected, but most are, making the breeding of two merles a very touchy subject. Some breeders euthanize mostly white pups, while others may attempt to sell them as "rare" white Australian Shepherds without disclosing the potential for health defects.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ashgi.org/home-page/genetics-info/coat-color/whats-wrong-with-white-aussies|title=What's Wrong With White Aussies?|access-date=24 April 2014|archive-date=26 April 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140426202146/http://www.ashgi.org/home-page/genetics-info/coat-color/whats-wrong-with-white-aussies|url-status=live}}</ref> A large percentage of homozygous merles sold eventually end up in rescue and shelters, as the average family is ill-prepared to take on a deaf or blind pet.{{Citation needed|date=February 2024}} |
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The term "lethal white" originated from horses born with [[lethal white syndrome]], and has since evolved to often describe dogs born with the double merle trait. This trait is found in many breeds, but most commonly found in Australian Shepherds. The name "lethal white" is a [[misnomer]], as this genetic condition is not lethal to the dogs; it is often the breeder who is lethal to the pups by [[cull]]ing them immediately after birth.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.australian-shepherd-lovers.com/lethal-white.html|title=Homozygous "Lethal White" Merles|access-date=13 January 2013|archive-date=2 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130102104804/http://www.australian-shepherd-lovers.com/lethal-white.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":0" /> Many consider the term "lethal white" to be derogatory.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.lethalwhites.com/brochure/WhtAusBro.pdf|title=What is a double merle?|access-date=13 January 2013|archive-date=25 December 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121225003603/http://www.lethalwhites.com/brochure/WhtAusBro.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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==Activities== |
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Like other [[herding breed]]s, these dogs excel at many [[dog sports]], especially [[herding]] also known as [[Stock dog|stockdog]], [[dog agility]], [[Dock jumping|dock diving/dock jumping]], [[Obedience trial|obedience]], [[Rally obedience|rally]], [[Tracking (dog)|tracking]], [[disc dog|disc]], and [[flyball]].<ref>{{Cite web|date=2016-04-09|title=Competitive Programs {{!}} ASCA|url=https://www.asca.org/competitive-programs/,%20https://www.asca.org/competitive-programs/|access-date=2021-10-15|website=www.asca.org|language=en-US|archive-date=2024-02-01|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240201132040/https://www.asca.org/competitive-programs/,%20https://www.asca.org/competitive-programs/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Herding instincts and trainability can be measured at noncompetitive instinct tests. Australian Shepherds that exhibit basic herding instincts can be trained to compete in ASCA stock dog trials or AKC herding events.<ref name="Hartnagle-Taylor and Ty Taylor">{{cite book|first1 = Jeanne Joy | last1 = Hartnagle-Taylor | first2 = Ty | last2 = Taylor |year = 2010|title=Stockdog Savvy|publisher=Alpine Publications|isbn=978-1-57779-106-5}}</ref> |
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The dog has a stride in which its front and back legs cross over, making for an appearance of "on the edge" speed. The dogs instinctively use a "pounce" position to deal with cattle trying to kick them. They also have strong hips and legs, allowing for fast acceleration and high jumping, sometimes as high as 4 ft (1.3 m).{{Citation needed|date=February 2024}} |
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An Australian shepherd named Pockets is credited as being the oldest dog to earn a title in AKC history, having earned the Rally Novice title at the age of 15 years, 5 weeks.<ref>{{cite news |last=Thompson |first=Sally |url=http://mnsun.com/articles/2005/10/13/news/aw13aussie.txt |title=Plymouth dog sets American Kennel Club record |newspaper=Minnesota Local News |publisher=Sun Newspapers |date=November 10, 2005 |access-date=April 3, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120420062724/http://mnsun.com/articles/2005/10/13/news/aw13aussie.txt |archive-date=April 20, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> |
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<gallery widths="200px" heights="200px"> |
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File:Australian Shepherd agility cropped.jpg|A blue merle in a [[dog agility]] competition |
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File:Australian Shepherd catching a frisbee.jpg|Australian Shepherd catching a frisbee |
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</gallery> |
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==See also== |
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* [[Portal:Dogs|Dogs portal]] |
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* [[List of dog breeds]] |
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==References== |
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{{Reflist|refs= |
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<ref name=Alderton>{{cite book |last=Alderton |first=David |author-link=David Alderton |date=2008 |title=The encyclopedia of dogs |location=Bath |publisher=Parragon Books Ltd |page=269 |isbn=978-1-4454-0853-8}}</ref> |
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<ref name=Fogle>{{cite book |last=Fogle |first=Bruce |author-link=Bruce Fogle|date=2009 |title=The encyclopedia of the dog |location=New York |publisher=DK Publishing |page=231 |isbn=978-0-7566-6004-8 }}</ref> |
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<ref name=Morris>{{cite book |last=Morris |first=Desmond |author-link=Desmond Morris |date=2001 |title=Dogs: the ultimate dictionary of over 1,000 dog breeds |location=North Pomfret, VT|publisher=Trafalgar Square Publishing |pages=454–455 |isbn=1-57076-219-8}}</ref> |
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<ref name=Palika>{{cite book |last=Palika |first=Liz |date=2007 |title=The Howell book of dogs: the definitive reference to 300 breeds and varieties |location=Hoboken, N.J. |publisher=Wiley Publishing Inc. |pages=136–137 |isbn=978-0-470-00921-5}}</ref> |
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<ref name=UKC>{{cite web |url=https://www.ukcdogs.com/australian-shepherd |title=Australian Shepherd: Official UKC breed standard |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=1990 |website=[[United Kennel Club]] |access-date=5 April 2021 |archive-date=28 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210128071944/https://www.ukcdogs.com/australian-shepherd |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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}} |
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==Further reading== |
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* {{cite book|author1=Hartnagle, Carol Ann |author2=Hartnagle, Ernest |year=2006|title=Total Australian Shepherd: Beyond the Beginning|publisher= Hoflin Publishing |isbn=978-0-86667-072-2}} |
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* {{cite book|author=Hartnagle-Taylor, Jeanne Joy |year=2005|title=All About Aussies|publisher= Alpine Publishing |isbn=978-1-57779-074-7}} |
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* {{cite book|first1 = Jeanne Joy | last1 = Hartnagle-Taylor | first2 = Ty | last2 = Taylor |year=2010|title=Stockdog Savvy|publisher=Alpine Publications|isbn=978-1-57779-106-5}} |
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* {{cite book|author=Renna, Christine Hartnagle|year=2000|title=Herding Dogs: Selection and Training the Working Farm Dog|publisher= Kennel Club Books |isbn=978-1-59378-737-0}} |
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==External links== |
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{{Commons}} |
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{{Pastoral dogs}} |
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{{American dogs}} |
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{{Authority control}} |
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[[Category:Dog breeds originating in the United States]] |
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[[Category:FCI breeds]] |
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[[Category:Herding dogs]] |
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[[Category:Dogs in the United States]] |
Revision as of 03:05, 18 June 2024
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Dog (domestic dog) |
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. It is believed to have its origins in sheepdog breeds from northwest Spain, as well as 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.
History
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/4b/Australian_Shepherd_Black_Tri%2C_Red_Tri%2C_Blue_Merle.jpg/220px-Australian_Shepherd_Black_Tri%2C_Red_Tri%2C_Blue_Merle.jpg)
The Australian Shepherd descends in part from pastoral dogs brought to herd Spanish flocks in North America as early as the 1500s.[1] There is some speculation that these dogs included the Carea Leonés, a mountain sheepdog that can display the eye color and merle coat found in many contemporary Australian Shepherds.[1] It is sometimes claimed that the Basque Shepherd Dog and the Pyrenean Sheepdog were also among the ancestors of the breed.[2][3] The breed as it is known today developed in California in the 19th century, as a sheep herding dog for Californian shepherds.[2][4][3] The Australian Shepherd is also believed to be descended from a variety of herding dogs imported to California with imported sheep, including collies from Australia and New Zealand. It was from these ancestors that the breed took its name.[4][3]
The Australian Shepherd spread from California throughout the Western United States where it became extremely popular with ranchers who valued the breed's sheep working qualities, as well as their ability to handle cattle and other livestock.[3] A purely working breed for over a century, the Australian Shepherd was virtually unknown outside of the livestock industry until the mid-20th century when the breed was popularised by Jay Lister, a rodeo performer, at rodeos across the western states with his Australian Shepherds performing all manner of tricks.[5] A breed club was soon formed to promote the breed, the Australian Shepherd Club of America, and kennel club recognition followed in 1979 when the breed was recognised by the United Kennel Club.[3][6] The breed was subsequently recognised by the American Kennel Club in the 1990s and later the Fédération Cynologique Internationale.[2][3]
From the late-20th century the Australian Shepherd has increasingly been seen in conformation shows and it has become an extremely popular companion dog. In 2019 it was ranked by the American Kennel Club as the 15th most popular breed of dog in the United States.[3][7]
Description
Appearance
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/41/Bvdb-australischeherder.jpg/220px-Bvdb-australischeherder.jpg)
The Australian Shepherd is a medium-sized, athletic breed; they typically stand between 18 and 23 inches (46 and 58 cm) and weigh between 35 and 70 pounds (16 and 32 kg).[2][4] The parent club, the Australian Shepherd Club of America's breed standard states male dogs should stand between 20 and 23 inches (51 and 58 cm) and females between 18 and 21 inches (46 and 53 cm), at the withers; the standard does allow individual animals to exceed these limits slightly.
The Australian Shepherd has a moderately long and wavy double coat that has a dense undercoat and coarse topcoat; the coat is short on the face and well feathered on the rear of the legs.[4][3] The breed is known for its unique colorations and variable coat patterns, it being said no two dogs sharing a coat.[3] The breed standard allows for blue merle, red merle, solid black or solid red, with or without white markings and with or without tan points.[6]
Examples of the breed can be born with long or naturally bobbed (short) tails;[8] traditionally long tailed dogs had their tails docked, although some countries outside of the United States do not allow docking and so some long tailed and partial bob tails are allowed to be exhibited in those countries.
Temperament
The Australian Shepherd is described as intelligent, active, loyal, protective, playful, and adaptive.[2][4][3] The modern breed is predominantly bred for pets; despite this, many retain a strong herding instinct and it is not uncommon for companion dogs of the breed to try to herd children or other pets.[2][5] A very active breed, the Australian Shepherd is known to become destructive if it does not receive adequate exercise.[2][5]
Health
Australian Shepherds are generally a healthy breed, but they can have several health problems. Vision problems are common,[9] and epilepsy is also a concern. Australian Shepherds can develop hip problems. In merle-to-merle breeding, the puppies that have inherited two copies of the merle gene have an increased risk of being born blind or deaf.[10]
A 2024 UK study found a median life expectancy of 13.7 years based on a sample of 62 deaths, which was above the median of 12.7 years for purebreeds and 12 years for crossbreeds.[11]
Morbidity
Based on a sample of 48 still-living dogs, the most common health concerns noted by owners were eye problems (red eye, epiphora, conjunctivitis, and cataracts).[12] Dermatological and respiratory problems also ranked high.
Collie eye anomaly (CEA) is rare in the breed, but it and cataracts are a concern in Australian Shepherds.[13] Other conditions of note include iris coloboma, canine hip dysplasia, Pelger-Huet anomaly, hypothyroidism, and nasal solar dermatitis. Prior to breeding, the Australian Shepherd should be checked for hip and elbow dysplasia and DNA tests performed to show the dog to be free of the MDR1 mutation, cataract mutation, and CEA. Tests should also include those for thyroidism and clearances for other known eye diseases like colobomas, progressive retinal atrophy, and retinal folds.
Some Australian Shepherds (as well as Collies, German Shepherds, and many other herding dogs) are susceptible to a genetic mutation of the MDR1 gene.[14] Dogs with the mutation can suffer toxicity from antiparasitics such as ivermectin in high doses, and other drugs.[15] A test is available to determine if a particular dog carries the mutated gene.[16]
Australian Shepherds show relatively low levels (approximately 6%) of hip dysplasia, a heritable condition where the femur does not fit securely in the pelvic socket of the hip joint.[17][18]
Double merle
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/0b/Eyes_of_a_lethal_white_Australian_Shepherd.jpg/220px-Eyes_of_a_lethal_white_Australian_Shepherd.jpg)
Double merle or homozygous merle occurs when the offspring of two merled parents inherit two copies of the dominant merle gene. The odds of this are 25% for each pup born from such a litter.[19] Double merles often have excessive light or white areas and can have hearing and vision problems as a result of having two copies of the merle gene.[20] Homozygous merles can be deaf or blind, or express iris colobomas, retinal detachment, cataracts, persistent pupillary membrane, a displacement of the lens, equatorial staphyloma, night blindness and microphthalmia. Audio impairment or deafness usually develops after the birth of a puppy with their ear canal still closed. The white color of double merles is produced due to the lack of melanocytes which provide high potassium levels in the endolymph surrounding the cochlea's hair cells. There is no surgery or treatment that can reduce the damage. Loss of hearing is directly linked to the amount of pigmentation cells a dog has. The same pigment that is lacking in the ear can also be lacking in the eyes, affecting its development. Although many believe that only dogs with blue eyes have eye problems, it is not correct. Due to the contrast between eye problems and blue eyes, eye conditions in blue-eyed dogs are much easier to spot.[20]
Not all homozygous merles are affected, but most are, making the breeding of two merles a very touchy subject. Some breeders euthanize mostly white pups, while others may attempt to sell them as "rare" white Australian Shepherds without disclosing the potential for health defects.[21] A large percentage of homozygous merles sold eventually end up in rescue and shelters, as the average family is ill-prepared to take on a deaf or blind pet.[citation needed]
The term "lethal white" originated from horses born with lethal white syndrome, and has since evolved to often describe dogs born with the double merle trait. This trait is found in many breeds, but most commonly found in Australian Shepherds. The name "lethal white" is a misnomer, as this genetic condition is not lethal to the dogs; it is often the breeder who is lethal to the pups by culling them immediately after birth.[22][20] Many consider the term "lethal white" to be derogatory.[23]
Activities
Like other herding breeds, these dogs excel at many dog sports, especially herding also known as stockdog, dog agility, dock diving/dock jumping, obedience, rally, tracking, disc, and flyball.[24] Herding instincts and trainability can be measured at noncompetitive instinct tests. Australian Shepherds that exhibit basic herding instincts can be trained to compete in ASCA stock dog trials or AKC herding events.[25]
The dog has a stride in which its front and back legs cross over, making for an appearance of "on the edge" speed. The dogs instinctively use a "pounce" position to deal with cattle trying to kick them. They also have strong hips and legs, allowing for fast acceleration and high jumping, sometimes as high as 4 ft (1.3 m).[citation needed]
An Australian shepherd named Pockets is credited as being the oldest dog to earn a title in AKC history, having earned the Rally Novice title at the age of 15 years, 5 weeks.[26]
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A blue merle in a dog agility competition
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Australian Shepherd catching a frisbee
See also
References
- ^ a b "Australian Shepherd History". American Kennel Club. AKC. Archived from the original on 19 May 2021. Retrieved 20 August 2021.
- ^ a b c d e f g Alderton, David (2008). The encyclopedia of dogs. Bath: Parragon Books Ltd. p. 269. ISBN 978-1-4454-0853-8.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j Morris, Desmond (2001). Dogs: the ultimate dictionary of over 1,000 dog breeds. North Pomfret, VT: Trafalgar Square Publishing. pp. 454–455. ISBN 1-57076-219-8.
- ^ a b c d e Fogle, Bruce (2009). The encyclopedia of the dog. New York: DK Publishing. p. 231. ISBN 978-0-7566-6004-8.
- ^ a b c Palika, Liz (2007). The Howell book of dogs: the definitive reference to 300 breeds and varieties. Hoboken, N.J.: Wiley Publishing Inc. pp. 136–137. ISBN 978-0-470-00921-5.
- ^ a b "Australian Shepherd: Official UKC breed standard". United Kennel Club. 1990. Archived from the original on 28 January 2021. Retrieved 5 April 2021.
- ^ "Most popular dog breeds – full ranking list". American Kennel Club. 28 March 2019. Archived from the original on 28 February 2019. Retrieved 5 April 2021.
- ^ Hytönen, Marjo K; Grall, Anaïs; Hédan, Benoît (2009-03-01). "Ancestral T-Box Mutation Is Present in Many, but Not All, Short-Tailed Dog Breeds". Journal of Heredity. 100 (2): 236–240. doi:10.1093/jhered/esn085. PMID 18854372 – via academic.com.
- ^ "Hereditary Defects of the Australian Shepherd". Australian Shepherd Club of America, Inc. Archived from the original on April 3, 2011. Retrieved April 3, 2011.
- ^ "Canine Epilepsy". Australian Shepherd Club of America, Inc. 1999. Archived from the original on April 30, 2011. Retrieved April 3, 2011.
- ^ McMillan, Kirsten M.; Bielby, Jon; Williams, Carys L.; Upjohn, Melissa M.; Casey, Rachel A.; Christley, Robert M. (2024-02-01). "Longevity of companion dog breeds: those at risk from early death". Scientific Reports. 14 (1). Springer Science and Business Media LLC. doi:10.1038/s41598-023-50458-w. ISSN 2045-2322. PMC 10834484.
- ^ Kennel Club/British Small Animal Veterinary Association Scientific Committee Archived 2013-08-13 at the Wayback Machine. 2004. Purebred Dog Health Survey. Retrieved July 5, 2007
- ^ "Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)". Australian Shepherd Club of America, Inc. Archived from the original on July 16, 2011. Retrieved April 3, 2011.
- ^ "MDR1 FAQs". Australian Shepherd Health & Genetics Institute, Inc. Archived from the original on December 13, 2007. Retrieved April 3, 2011.
- ^ "Problem Drugs". Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine. December 8, 2010. Archived from the original on 14 May 2011. Retrieved April 3, 2011.
- ^ "Get Your Dog Tested". Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine. January 19, 2011. Archived from the original on 29 April 2011. Retrieved April 3, 2011.
- ^ Loder, Randall T.; Todhunter, Rory J. (2017-03-12). "The Demographics of Canine Hip Dysplasia in the United States and Canada". Journal of Veterinary Medicine. 2017: 1–15. doi:10.1155/2017/5723476. ISSN 2356-7708. PMC 5366211. PMID 28386583.
- ^ "Hip Dysplasia in Dogs: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention". www.peteducation.com. Archived from the original on 2016-03-29. Retrieved 2016-05-12.
- ^ "White-linked Deafness in Australian Shepherds". Australian Shepherd Club of America, Inc. 1998. Archived from the original on January 8, 2011. Retrieved April 3, 2011.
- ^ a b c Mark., Manfield (2017-05-13). Australian Shepherd Bible and the Australian Shepherd : Your Perfect Australian Shepherd Guide Covers Australian Shepherds, Australian Shepherd Puppies, Australian Shepherd Training, Mini Australian Shepherds, Australian Shepherd Breeders, Size, Health, More!. Milano. ISBN 9781911355564. OCLC 1005140424.
{{cite book}}
: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link) - ^ "What's Wrong With White Aussies?". Archived from the original on 26 April 2014. Retrieved 24 April 2014.
- ^ "Homozygous "Lethal White" Merles". Archived from the original on 2 January 2013. Retrieved 13 January 2013.
- ^ "What is a double merle?" (PDF). Archived (PDF) from the original on 25 December 2012. Retrieved 13 January 2013.
- ^ "Competitive Programs | ASCA". www.asca.org. 2016-04-09. Archived from the original on 2024-02-01. Retrieved 2021-10-15.
- ^ Hartnagle-Taylor, Jeanne Joy; Taylor, Ty (2010). Stockdog Savvy. Alpine Publications. ISBN 978-1-57779-106-5.
- ^ Thompson, Sally (November 10, 2005). "Plymouth dog sets American Kennel Club record". Minnesota Local News. Sun Newspapers. Archived from the original on April 20, 2012. Retrieved April 3, 2011.
Further reading
- Hartnagle, Carol Ann; Hartnagle, Ernest (2006). Total Australian Shepherd: Beyond the Beginning. Hoflin Publishing. ISBN 978-0-86667-072-2.
- Hartnagle-Taylor, Jeanne Joy (2005). All About Aussies. Alpine Publishing. ISBN 978-1-57779-074-7.
- Hartnagle-Taylor, Jeanne Joy; Taylor, Ty (2010). Stockdog Savvy. Alpine Publications. ISBN 978-1-57779-106-5.
- Renna, Christine Hartnagle (2000). Herding Dogs: Selection and Training the Working Farm Dog. Kennel Club Books. ISBN 978-1-59378-737-0.