Are Australian Shepherds hypoallergenic?

No, Australian Shepherds are not considered to be a hypoallergenic dog, and no dog is 100% hypoallergenic. Australian Shepherds are heavy shedders, so with all that fur and dander, people with allergies may need to love this breed from a distance.

How long do Australian Shepherds live?

The Australian Shepherd lifespan is 12–15 years.

Are Australian Shepherds smart?

Yes, Australian Shepherds are incredibly smart and curious, and they love a challenge. They’re recognized as one of the smartest dog breeds .

Are Australian Shepherds good with kids?

Australian Shepherds can be good with kids, especially older ones. But you may need to teach your Aussie that kiddos aren’t appropriate things to herd.

Do Australian Shepherds have tails?

There’s a 1 in 5 chance that your Aussie will have a naturally bobbed tail. If an Aussie is born with a long tail, the breeder will often dock it to maintain the look of the breed. However, many countries and U.S. states have banned docking, or cutting the tail off, due to welfare concerns, and some veterinary groups oppose it.

What colors are Australian Shepherds?

Four Australian Shepherd colors are recognized by the AKC: black, blue merle (a bluish-gray coat with irregular markings and splotches of black), red, or red merle (a buff or silver coat with irregular markings and splotches of red). Aussies often have a shaggy white mane.

How big do Australian Shepherds get?

The typical Australian Shepherd size varies. Female Aussies can range from 18–21 inches tall from the top of the withers (the area just above the shoulder), and they weigh between 40–55 pounds. Males can range from 20–23 inches tall, and they typically weigh 50–65 pounds. Aussies are considered medium–size dogs.

Australian Shepherds vs. Border Collies: What’s the difference?

While both breeds have herding instincts, their styles differ. Border Collies are intense, work-focused herders, while Australian Shepherds are more adaptable and family-oriented.

Why is my Australian Shepherd digging so much?

Aussies are dogs that love to dig, but if they’re regularly ripping up the backyard, it might mean you need to increase their activity level. There are ways to stop your dog from digging , but in the meantime, head out on a new trail or try out a new agility course to help your pup channel their energy!

How much does an Australian Shepherd cost?

Purebred puppies start at around $600 and may cost over $2,000. You can also find Australian Shepherds for adoption for a lower price tag.

Australian Shepherd

Updated March 5, 2025

Bright and energetic, Australian Shepherds excel with active pet parents who have the time to train them. Your Aussie will thrive if they have plenty of space, lots of exercise, and the opportunity to engage in physical activity that also puts their mind to work, such as obedience or agility training.

Temperament

All-Day Energy, Up-for-Anything Sidekick, Intelligent

Weight

40–65 pounds

Height

18–23 inches

Life Expectancy

12–15 years

Maintenance Level

Friendliness

Coat Color

Blue Merle, Black, Red, Red Merle

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If you’re really into working out and won’t stop talking about it (no judgment), there’s a dog out there who’s just as competitive and sporty as you are. As the MVP of the dog park, the Australian Shepherd (or “Aussie”) loves playing fetch, running agility courses, and any activity that unleashes their playful side.   

Australian Shepherds are intelligent, energetic pups that need pet parents with the time to teach them new tricks, go on long walks or hikes, and invest in fun activities you can do together, like agility trials or even a SUP session.

Australian Shepherd Characteristics

Remember: Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.

Exercise Needs

Health Issues

Grooming Needs

Training Needs

Shedding Level

Friendliness

Playfulness

Energy Level

Good for Apartments and Small Homes

Sensitive to Cold Weather

Sensitive to Warm Weather

Good for First-Time Pet Parents

Australian Shepherd Appearance

The Australian Shepherd has a striking gaze, a fluffy double coat, a lean body, and a tail that’s either bobbed, docked, or long and furry. Their eyes can be many colors, but they’re often light blue and occasionally mismatched. The Aussie’s coat color can also vary. 

While there’s no kennel club that recognizes a “mini” version of the Australian Shepherd; the American Kennel Club (AKC) does recognize a separate breed called the Miniature American Shepherd, which is smaller and has a distinct breed standard.

Ears
The Australian Shepherd's alert ears are triangular with a natural fold and set high on their head.
Eyes
Their eyes are brown, blue, amber, or a combination; sometimes each eye is a different color.
Nose
Aussie noses are straight with a rounded black or brown tip. Merle Australian Shepherds may have pink spots on their nose.
Coat Length
An Australian Shepherd’s medium-length double coat has two layers: a soft, insulating undercoat and a thick, water-resistant outer coat. They have feathering on the back of their legs.
Coat Color
Australian Shepherd colors include black, blue merle, red, or red merle, all with possible tan or white markings.
Tail
Traditionally, the Australian Shepherd tail was docked when they were still a puppy. However, it’s becoming more common to keep the breed’s naturally fluffy, long tail intact. Many groups, including the American Veterinary Medical Association, now oppose tail docking for welfare reasons, and many countries as well as U.S. states have banned the practice. But some Aussie dogs carry the bobtail gene, which means they’re born with a stubby tail or none at all.

Australian Shepherd Temperament

Australian Shepherds were bred to herd. As such, they’re fast, smart, and always on the move, so other outlets for their robust energy are a must.

Because Aussies have a natural herding instinct, they may try to round up unsuspecting children or surprised neighbors out on a bike ride. It’s wise to train your dog early so they understand how to behave in polite society. Be sure to keep your pup on a leash or within a securely fenced area—these dogs are speedy.

Feed their natural curiosity with daily training sessions that engage their mind and body. Aussies genuinely want to make you happy, and this dedicated time together will deepen your bond.

Playtime is another way to blow off some energy. Australian Shepherds will enthusiastically engage in just about any game you can invent. Most adore playing fetch, and they have a well-deserved reputation as disc dog champions.

Your Aussie’s bubbly personality might make you think they’re a social butterfly, but they tend to be cautious around strangers. Properly socializing an Australian Shepherd puppy will help them feel more comfortable in new environments when they’re older.

Bottom line: Aussies dislike downtime (except when they’re sleeping!), so keep them entertained with lots of outdoor time and toys, such as interactive puzzles, flying discs, and balls.

Similar in size and pet care needs as the Australian Shepherd

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How to Care for a Australian Shepherd

As hearty dogs originally bred for life on the farm or ranch, Aussies are relatively rough-and-tumble pups that need outlets for their high energy, sharp minds, and desire to do things. A healthy Aussie is an active Aussie, so make sure to keep them moving no matter the weather or your schedule.

Do Australian Shepherds shed? Yes! As double-coated dogs—meaning they have longer guard hairs on top of a softer undercoat—they need brushing tools that can reach that lower layer.

Bathing: Australian Shepherds are blessed with a coat that’s equipped to handle different weather conditions. Bathing them too often can strip the natural oils that keep their skin healthy, so Aussies need a bath only about once every six to eight weeks, unless they are especially dirty from one of their outdoor adventures.
- Pro Tip: Leave a dog towel by the door to pat them down when they come inside after a big romp, and pay attention to their paws, which can get roughed up from off-road adventuring. Have a dog paw cleaner handy, too.
Brushing: To reduce shedding, use a slicker brush in the direction of the fur, followed gently by an undercoat rake. A thorough, weekly brushing will help distribute the natural oils and keep their coat glossy from head to tail.
Dental care: Brush your dog’s teeth every day to prevent dental disease, and start this healthy habit when your dog’s a puppy so they get used to it. Once a year, take them to the vet for a professional dental cleaning.
Nail trimming: Because Aussies are on the move a lot, their nails may not need trimming as frequently as homebody dogs. But you’ll still need to know how to trim your dog’s nails—it’s time for a trim when you hear them clicking on hard surfaces.

Training your Aussie is the best thing you can do for both you and your pup. An Aussie’s instinct is to work, and they may need some help defining what “work” means when there are no cows to herd. Luckily, they’re super smart and easy to train.

Begin as soon as you bring your new Aussie home. Begin by teaching basic cues like stay and come. Consider enrolling your Australian Shepherd puppy in obedience school when they’re around 4 months old and fully vaccinated. It’s a great way to socialize your dog, as they’ll meet new people and make some new canine friends, too.

Whether you train your pup yourself or work with a professional, give your dog lots of positive reinforcement by rewarding a job well done with treats, special toys, and praise.

After your Aussie has the basics down, keep them engaged by teaching them more complex tricks and competitive sports, such as agility courses, dock diving, and flyball, which will challenge them intellectually and physically.

Active Aussies may need more calories than couch potato pups. Choose a complete and balanced diet that’s AAFCO-compliant for your dog’s life stage (puppy, adult, or senior).

Some Aussies may have food allergies that manifest as dry, itchy skin. Pay attention to any symptoms and tell your vet. They may recommend hypoallergenic foods or foods formulated for sensitive skin.

Since you’ll be training your Australian Shepherd puppy often, you’ll need lots of treats, right? Not so fast—Aussies should get most of their calories from mealtime, not less-nutritious treats. Even active dogs can become obese if they take in more calories than they burn.

Treats are still important for training, so your vet will help you find a healthy ratio; treats should never make up more than 10% of a dog’s daily calories.

An active Aussie is a happy Aussie—lots of exercise is a nonnegotiable for this breed! Australian Shepherds have abundant energy, so pet parents must keep them moving. If you don’t provide ways for your Aussie to let off steam, they’ll find their own—and you might not love your best friend’s new chosen hobby.

Australian Shepherd dogs need plenty of time to run, walk, play, and train with you. Hang out with your dog for at least an hour or two every day—long hikes are a perfect activity.

Australian Shepherds also thrive when engaging in competitive dog sports, especially agility trials and canine disc games.

An Aussie will be happy anywhere they have access to the outdoors. A large backyard is ideal, but an Australian Shepherd can adapt to apartment living if they have ample access to a nearby park and pet parents with enough time to play every day.

Aussies are an excellent dog for both a single person or a family. While they enjoy the excitement and activity a family can bring, they may try to herd toddlers and other pets. They’ll do best in homes with responsible older kids.

Australian Shepherds need a confident pup parent—they will take on the role of leader if you don’t. So, they’re usually better suited for someone who’s had dogs before. But if you’re a first-time dog parent willing to invest the time and energy your pup needs, an Australian Shepherd makes a fabulous sidekick ready for outdoor adventures.

Australian Shepherd Health

The Australian Shepherd lifespan is about 12–15 years, and it’s not unusual for an Aussie to live to be 16. However, there are a few common health issues in this breed to be aware of. 

Cancer: Aussies have an increased risk of some cancers, particularly lymphoma and hemangiosarcoma, a cancer from the cells that line the blood vessels. Let your vet know if you notice any unusual lumps (although some growths can be internal), and keep in mind they could be benign.
Epilepsy: A neurological disorder defined by seizures, epilepsy can be an inherited condition in Aussies. There are no genetic screening tests, but often the condition can be controlled with daily, lifelong medication. See a vet immediately if your dog has a seizure.
Eye issues: Cataracts are the most common eye disease in Aussies, but they’re also at risk of collie eye anomaly (CEA), a hereditary disease of the nerve and eye tissue that ultimately leads to blindness. Aussies are also susceptible to distichiasis, in which an eyelash grows abnormally, scratching the eye.
Hip dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a painful genetic condition where the ball of the femur doesn’t properly fit into the hip socket. Obesity can make symptoms worse, so a healthy diet and regular exercise are crucial. 
Multidrug resistance 1 (MDR1) mutation: MDR1 is a genetic mutation commonly found in herding breeds and can be detected via genetic testing. This mutation makes dogs more sensitive to some medications, particularly the popular drug ivermectin, which is found in heartworm prevention. Always consult your vet about the right medication for your pet.

Take your dog for regular checkups so you and your vet understand your Aussie’s healthy “normal.” This can help you better identify when your Aussie behaves abnormally.

Australian Shepherd History

Surprisingly, the Aussie’s story begins not in Australia but in the Basque region of Spain, near the Pyrenees mountains that divide Spain and France. There, herdsmen selectively bred the ancestors of the beloved Aussie for their herding abilities.

As people from the Basque region settled in Australia during the 19th century, they brought these working dogs with them. Over time, the dogs were bred with other herding dogs, like Border Collies, and found homes on Australian ranches.

As migration progressed to the American West, the dogs found footing in California, where locals mistakenly assumed Australia was their place of origin. California ranchers admired these dogs for their work ethic and exceptional herding abilities.

The AKC recognized the Australian Shepherd dog breed in 1991. Today, they are still found on ranches and farms worldwide. Not only are they great additions to high-energy families, but Aussies can also work as service or therapy dogs, as well as in jobs like search and rescue.

A purebred Australian Shepherd puppy can cost anywhere from $600 to $2,000 or more. If you choose this route, pick a responsible breeder.

You can also adopt an Australian Shepherd rescue dog by:

Reaching out to organizations, such as Aussie Rescue and Placement Helpline, a nationwide network of Australian Shepherd rescues
Keeping an eye out for the breed at your local animal shelter or on their social media
Searching Chewy’s database of adoptable dogs in your area.

FAQs

This content was medically reviewed by Barri Morrison, DVM, Chewy veterinarian.

Similar in size and pet care needs as the Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherd