HISTORY
The Australian Shepherd was actually developed in America but there is much debate over the origins of the foundation stock. It is believed the dogs traveled over with flocks of Merino sheep and the Basque shepherds who tended them. Some contend they came to Australia from Spain when the first Merino sheep arrived and then traveled to America. Others believe they were Australian Sheepdogs derived from the Smithfield and some type of collie, possibly the German Coolie or it’s ancestor. More recently the theory has been put forward that the dogs traveled direct from Europe with Merino flocks. The name came about because of the believed link with this country and the herding of Australian Merino Sheep. Further historical research needs to be done but there is evidence that this type of dog has been worked here in the past and documentary evidence showing animals have been sent to America as late as the 1950’s. Once in America the Aussies were used to work sheep and later cattle, developing quite a reputation as a working dog. Legend has it that these dogs were held in reverence by the Indians because of their unusual and often blue eyes., therefore, they came to be called the "ghost-eyed ones" the Indians left these sacred "spirit" dogs and their owners unharmed. The Aussie has been elusive, at least in documentation of his origin. Today they are very popular as a family pet, an obedience and agility dog, a worker and now a show dog.
CHARACTERISTICS
The Australian Shepherd is a dog of medium size and bone, slightly longer than tall with a coat of medium length. Males range in height from 51 - 58.5 cm (20 - 23 ins) and bitches from 45.5 - 53.5 cm (18 -21 ins). To the untrained eye he resembles a Border Collie, but is slightly larger and has a wider range of colours. These include Blue Merle, Red Merle, Solid Black and Solid Red. These colours can be varied with white and/or copper trim which allows variety and individuality. The Aussie standard also allows the all coloured dogs to have blue eyes, one blue and one brown eye or marbled eyes. On merles it is also permissible to have 25% of the nose un-pigmented. His tail can be docked or naturally bobbed and is not to exceed four inches in length. The Aussie gait is smooth and free and should exhibit great movement and agility. Not to be mistaken for snarling, "grinning" is a characteristic of some Australian Shepherds.
The Australian Shepherd is primarily a working dog of strong herding and guarding instincts. He is intelligent, devoted to his family, very agile and can work with style and enthusiasm. The Aussie is very easy to train and are quick to learn. He should have an even disposition, be good natured and seldom quarrelsome. He may be somewhat reserved on initial meetings. There should not be any display of shyness or aggression.
As the Aussie has been bred as a working dog, most are not content to be couch potatoes although some individuals are quite content to be a lap dog. A huge yard is not required but daily exercise is a must.
Owners must be committed to devote time and attention to the Aussie through training and play, if not this undirected energy can turn towards destructive behaviour such as digging and chewing cherished belongings. The Aussie is perfect for the person wishing for a highly trainable dog, if you have the time and commitment for an Aussie you won’t be disappointed, they are a special dog and deserve special owners. Those who have purchased an Aussie find they are like potato chips, you can’t stop at one! While Aussies are known for their ability in obedience, agility, tracking and endurance, they have also performed as Service dogs with the Police as drug detection dogs, Search and Rescue, Herding both cattle and sheep and also as therapy dogs for the sick and elderly. The Aussie is truly the most versatile dog of all.
THE PRESENT
In America Aussies were fully recognised by the American Kennel Club in 1993. The delay in recognition was caused by the fear that the dogs will be bred for the conformation ring only which could lead to a loss of their working ability.
In Australia the breed is in it’s infancy, Mrs. Shirley Ford (re) introduced the breed in 1990 when she emigrated from England with family and four Aussies, further imports have since arrived which has increased the breeding stock dramatically with Aussies being represented in all States of Australia. The breed was fully recognised by the Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC) on the 1st January 1994, the Aussie is becoming more popular with time and are competing in Conformation, Obedience and Agility.
BUYING A PUPPY
This can be an emotional experience with trying to make the correct decision, what colour, what sex, pet or show, price, where to buy, questions and what should I receive for my money?
Sex?
Although male and female share the same characteristics there are some distinct differences beside the obvious. The male is generally taller and larger and have a denser coat, males also tend to be more territorial and will not share their territory with other males as readily as bitches.
Bitches also come into season approximately every six months and must be confined for about two to three weeks. If either the male or female puppy is thought to be not suitable for breeding you should think about having him or her de-sexed, this should be discussed with the breeder.
Pet or Show?
Pet puppies are those which are deemed not suitable for the Conformation (Show) Ring because of minor imperfections when they are compared to the breed standard. This does not make them any less of a dog, often the novice person would not realise these imperfections. The dogs should NOT be used for breeding as they cannot contribute their "qualities" to a breeding improvement program. These puppies should be de-sexed.
It is important to remember that just because you have a Pet puppy, it should not have any health or temperament problems. It is also just as important to remember that if you purchase a Show quality puppy, this does not mean he/she will end up a Show Champion. This means the puppy should grow to be of a quality suitable to show representing the breed.
Price?
Paying the highest price does not mean you are going to receive the best puppy, but do remember that a dedicated breeder has invested a great deal of time, planning, veterinary care, nutrition, showing and stud fees. The initial purchase price is nothing compared with the upkeep of your puppy which can to live to approximately fifteen years of age.
Where to Buy?
Check with the Controlling body in your State for breed clubs and reputable breeders, you can also check the various canine magazines for litters and breeders. By also contacting your States Controlling body you can ascertain locations of dog shows which you can attend and observe the different Aussies entered and talk to breeders. Speak to as many people as possible and when speaking with a breeder regarding a possible purchase, ask for references and names of other puppy buyers which should assist you to make your decision.
Questions & What Should I Receive?
You should never be afraid to ask questions and take a list with you to each breeder you visit. Do not feel embarrassed no matter how silly the question may seem to you, everyone starts somewhere and any responsible breeder should welcome and admire your enthusiasm and concern for the breed.
1. You must receive a pedigree.
2. Why was the sire and dam chosen? They should complement each other to produce a better dog, what was the goal of the mating?
3. What are the faults of the sire and dam? A responsible honest breeder should be willing to talk about the parents faults and strong points.
4. Both sire and dam must be hip x-rayed and scored as suitable for breeding, ask to see their certificate.
5. Both sire, dam and puppy must have a current eye examination certificates and be clear of ocular deformities
6. A reputable breeder will supply you with a contract and guarantee with your puppy, this guarantee should cover your puppy’s health, you must also receive a current diet chart and food supply, vaccination card and worming and any other treatment the puppy has received.7. Any reading material on the breed the breeder may have to offer.
[The above information was supplied by Les Mathieson of " Sugargum
Australian Shepherds"]
