Despite its name, the Australian Shepard was initially bred in the United  States by US farmers for and ranchers in the 1920s.   the dog was used as a herding dog, all purpose dog,  This dog is unique in that it it is registered in two different registries.  One registries is the AKC and the other registry is an organization devoted to dog as a working dog.

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Physical Characteristics
The Australian Shepherd is a dog of medium sized build that is longer than it is tall.  The dog has a strong pronounced head that is slightly rounded.  The Australian Shepherd has a muzzle that is equal in length or it is slightly longer than the back of its skull.  Its eyes are almond shaped.  The tail is straight and is naturally bobbed or docked.   The tail should not be longer than four inches.  It has a medium length coat that is straight or it can be slightly uneven.  The coat, of the Australian Shephard, can be blue, black or red and may have white markings and tan points.

Height
The Dog is on average 18 to 23 inches.

Weight

The dog averages around 35 to 75 pounds.

Personality

The dog is know and being intelligent animal that has a strong work drive.  It is easily trained and is a dog that is an excellent family dog.  The dog can be wary with strangers.  However, it is never aggressive.  Overall, the Australian Shephard is playful, fun loving, and great with children.    Watch out though as the dog may try to herd children.   The dog is not good with other small animals as it has a high prey drive.

Who is the Dog Good With?

Active family that lives with a suburban or rural home.

Potential Health Issues?

Collie eye anomaly, deafness, hip dysplasia, PRA