Australian Shepherd Puppy

Most potential owners of an Australian Shepherd puppy pay attention to the trainability and working abilities of the dog, but not to its conformation. However, to participate in shows, every purebred dog should correspond to the breed standard. Only the best representatives of the breed can be bred or shown; dogs with faults can be used as pets only.

When choosing an Australian Shepherd puppy, you have to decide what exactly the dog will be used for and choose the breeder who produces dogs for such purposes. The primary purpose of this breed is herding the cattle. Australian Shepherd dogs possess strong guarding and herding instincts. They are large, massive and powerful enough to control large domestic stock. These dogs are endurable and able to work in any weather.

An Australian Shepherd puppy bought for shows and breeding should have a pedigree, health certificate, and registration papers. Show quality dogs may have recessive genes which makes them unsuited for breeding, but does not influence their appearance. A show quality Australian Shepherd should stand between 18 and 23 inches at the withers and weigh from 40 to 65 pounds. The head of these dogs should be large and massive; the muzzle is tapering and rounded; the eyes are almond-shaped and blue, amber or brown in color. The scissors bite is preferable. The shoulders and neck of the Australian Shepherd dog are broad and muscular; the legs are straight; the tail is usually docked, if longer than 10 cm. The typical coat colors in this breed are red, black, blue merle, and red merle.

Both show and pet quality dogs should be intelligent, alert, self-assured and protective. Courage and easy-going nature are the hallmarks of the breed. These large and strong dogs need much exercise outdoors and prefer active lifestyle. If properly trained, a dog of this breed can make a playing companion for a child. Though intelligent and quiet, this breed is not recommended as a first time pet, as it needs early socialization and a strong hand in training. A pet quality Australian Shepherd puppy may have faults that disqualify from the show ring, but behavior and health problems are inadmissible even in pet quality dogs.