First, did you know that the Australian Shepherd dog is often confused with the Border Collie? Just look at him and you'll soon see the similarities between the animals. However, this breed has a peculiarity that differentiates it from the Border Collie, which is the absence of a tail, or short tail.

In addition, their personalities end up being quite similar, as the Australian Shepherd dog is also a great choice for herding, in addition to being loyal and intelligent. So, if you like smart dogs and want to have a companion like that with you, check out everything about the breed below. This way you will understand its origins, values and how to take care of your puppy!

Although the name of the breed is Australian Shepherd, this dog did not come from Australia. In fact, it appeared in the western United States in the mid-1840s and its name comes from the ancestors that gave rise to the breed. Thus, it is believed that the people who migrated to the region took the herding dogs with them.

Thus, upon arriving in the western United States, the Americans who lived there began to call the dog Aussie, or Australian Shepherd, as it was excellent with herding activity. It was then that the breed developed, but it was only recognized much later, in 1993.

The characteristic that draws the most attention to the breed is certainly the absence of the tail. By the way, these animals do not undergo caudectomy, that is, the absence of the tail is entirely genetic. In addition, the Australian Shepherd dog has a mixed coat that draws a lot of attention, with a mixture of colors such as black, white, amber, brown, among others.

In addition, it is worth remembering that dogs of this breed have a double layer of hair, which means that weekly brushing will be necessary. Another desirable feature of these pets is their eye color, which can be blue, brown or amber, and heterochromia is quite common.

In addition, its body is robust, strong and the trunk more elongated. Also, his muzzle is wider and he has triangular ears that hang down on the sides of his head. Although they look more muscular, these dogs are quite symmetrical.

First of all, if you are determined to have an Australian Shepherd puppy, it is important that you find a kennel that specializes in the breed. That way, you avoid variations that don't match Australian Shepherd standards.

In addition, clandestine kennels often raise animals in precarious conditions, causing risks to the health of furry ones. That is, buying from unknown breeders, you may be funding animal cruelty, in addition to running the risk of adopting a sick puppy.

Furthermore, there are some kennels of the breed here in Brazil, and the price of a puppy can vary between R$2,500.00 and R$5,000.00. As this dog participates a lot in exhibitions and competitions, puppies with ancestors that compete in these disciplines can be more expensive than usual.

In addition, it is quite common for values to vary between male and female offspring. Therefore, do a lot of research and visit the kennel before purchasing the pet. If possible, ask to meet the parents of the litter for a better evaluation.

In general, the Australian Shepherd dog is quite healthy, but it is common for some problems to appear in the breed, such as hip dysplasia, which can cause difficulty in locomotion and pain, and cataracts, which can lead to blindness in the dog.

In addition, another genetic heritage of the breed is Von Willebrand disease, which can lead to bleeding and blood clotting disorders. However, regular visits to the veterinarian and routine examinations greatly improve the animal's prognosis.

On average, an Australian Shepherd dog can live up to 15 years, but there are reports of pets that have exceeded this age. So keep your pet healthy and well cared for and give him a good quality of life.

By the way, it is worth remembering that the breed is very energetic and needs daily physical activity. These dogs have robust paws and are considered medium-sized, with a height between 46 centimeters and 58 centimeters and their weight can reach 30 kg.

So, as we mentioned before, the Australian Shepherd is a dog with a lot of energy. That is, he likes and needs physical activity to stay healthy. In addition, they are very intelligent dogs and also need mental stimulation so they don't get bored.

Furthermore, this breed is companionable and loyal, and they enjoy being in the presence of their owners. By the way, these animals are often used as guide dogs for the visually impaired, as they are very smart and courageous.

If you have small children or other animals, you can rest assured, as the Australian Shepherd is very sociable and patient. In this way, he gets along very well with other furry and human companions, as they like to play.

Although the Australian Shepherd dog likes to play in the grass, he does not tolerate the loneliness of being outside. That is, even if you live in an apartment, he will adapt very well to the environment, as long as he is next to his tutors. But, of course, it is worth remembering that he will need to go out for a walk every day.

And, if you enjoy smart and active animals, you will definitely like the German Pointer breed. One of the oldest dog breeds in the world, the German Pointer has an unparalleled sense of smell, in addition to being intelligent and a companion. Learn all about the breed below!