Australian shepherds are medium-sized dogs with a solid build and low center of gravity. They are about 18 to 23 inches in height, and weigh from about 40 to 60 pounds (18 to 27 kilograms). Males generally are taller and heavier than females. Aussies live about 10 to 12 years.
Australian Shepherds grow for about 16 months until they reach about 50-65 pounds (males) or 40-45 pounds (females) on average. A mature Australian Shepherd stands approximately 18-23 inches tall, classifying the breed between medium- to large-size dogs.
The weight of full-grown Australian Shepherds ranges from as little as 35 pounds for a small female to 65 pounds for a big-boned male.
How big will a Miniature Australian Shepherd get? MAS dogs can vary quite a bit in size, weighing between 20 and 40 pounds. They shouldn't get any bigger than 18 inches tall, but they can also be as small as 13 inches. The females tend to be noticeably smaller than the males.
In the 1960s, small-size Australian Shepherds found working the U.S. rodeo circuit were selectively bred to further reduce their size. The new breed was originally called the Miniature Australian Shepherd. “They became especially popular with equestrians traveling to horse shows,…
They are about 18 to 23 inches in height, and weigh from about 40 to 60 pounds (18 to 27 kilograms). Males generally are taller and heavier than females. Aussies live about 10 to 12 years. Aussies have a lush, medium-length coat that is straight or slightly wavy.
Australian Shepherds are one of the most popular dog breeds, coming in at 16th on the American Kennel Club's most recent ranking. Aussie's are loved by many because they are smart, high-energy, versatile, loyal, and loving dogs.
Border collies, German shepherds, poodles, Australian shepherds and golden retrievers all have a reputation for being intelligent dogs.
Toy Aussies tend to be born into litters of 3-5 puppies and weigh 1-2 ounces at birth. They are considered fully grown between 18 months-2 years old.
A Toy Australian Shepherd gets to a height of 10 to 14 inches (25.4cm to 35.6cm) tall at the shoulder and weighs between 12 and 17 pounds (5.4kg to 7.7kg). They reach their full adult size around 12 months of age. Toy Australian Shepherds are the same size as Teacup Australian Shepherds.
They are generally healthy with a life expectancy of 12-15 years. Common health conditions include hip and elbow dysplasia, multidrug resistance mutation (MDR1), ocular conditions, epilepsy, and various cancers.
Most Australian Shepherds should begin calming down at two years of age. At this point, they're considered mature dogs who can better regulate their energy. That said, not all Aussies will tone it down at this age. It may take them reaching seniority for their energy to drop off.
They require plenty of attention. Being left alone for too long may cause the intelligent, energetic Australian Shepherd to create her own fun—often through destructive behaviors or barking. While an Aussie may be left home alone for four to six hours at a time, crate training may be necessary for the dog's safety.
They are smart dogs that are relatively easy to train. Aussies have a reputation for being highly energetic, which is why they are known to require a great deal of attention, exercise, and space. These dogs enjoy mental and physical activity in any form. Thus, they are often good learners.
Keep in mind the average Australian Shepherd tends to bark a lot, making it a little more challenging to get him to stop barking unless you give him the 'speak' command or there is a situation in which he needs to bark to alert you.
Bringing an Aussie dog to the family is not difficult, but taking its proper care is quite challenging. The first few weeks are spent on helping the pet acclimatize to the new surroundings. Its training also begins on the very first day so the Aussie understands house rules perfectly.
A Miniature Australian Shepherd requires a moderate amount of exercise—at least one hour per day. Luckily, these pups aren't particular with how they receive their workout, so a walk, run, jog, or hike can all do the job. These pups also enjoy off-leash running outside (in a fenced-in area) and some indoor playtime.
The only time you should shave or trim a Miniature Australian Shepherd is at your vet's recommendation, usually due to a health issue.
Just as humans stare into the eyes of someone they adore, dogs will stare at their owners to express affection. In fact, mutual staring between humans and dogs releases oxytocin, known as the love hormone. This chemical plays an important role in bonding and boosts feelings of love and trust.
The behavior is a good sign that your dog is happy at home, happy with you, and happy with any other pets or friends that he might encounter throughout the day. As a general rule, Australian Shepherds need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation in order to feel happy.
Splooting is a great stretch for the animals' hips. Splooting also allows the animal to cool themselves by pressing their belly into the ground or against tile floors. Owners may notice that their pets sploot more often when they are younger.
Their fluffy, medium-length coat is stunning to behold, and an Australian shepherd puppy is heartbreakingly cute. This shepherd dog breed isn't for everyone, however! Aussies need smart training and lots of attention. Like other herding dogs (the border collie, cattle dog, etc.)
According to Dr Tanya King, senior lecturer in anthropology from Victoria's Deakin University, “it's Australians' egalitarianism, sense of humour and informal language that are most commonly cited as examples of this attitude”.
Aussies are extremely good at the sports of herding, obedience, agility, disk catching, and flyball.