Australian Shepherd: Character, Health, Feeding, Price, and Care

While dog owners love their pets regardless of breed, some are more difficult to take care of than others. The Australian Shepherd is a perfect example of a high-maintenance dog. Though they make great companions, their constant health problems and tend to shed make them a difficult breed to own.

They also require a lot of exercise and can be high-maintenance when it comes to their health. In this article, we will discuss the Australian Shepherd, their dietary needs, how much they cost, and some tips for taking care of them.

What Is the Australian Shepherd?

Since their name suggests that these dogs come from Australia, you might be surprised to learn that the Australian Shepherd Dog was originally bred for work in America. Around the time of the Gold Rush in the 1840s.

The Australian Shepherd is a working dog originally bred to herd livestock and has strong herding instincts. They remain at heart; however, they can be stubborn or active when needed for work such as farm security.

Australian shepherds originated in America during the Gold Rush around the 1840s, but not until then did these beautiful animals come into existence and would later become so popular across North America, becoming one of its most prominent breeds.

The Aussie is a wonderful, energetic dog who needs to be busy, or they will find something that does interest them. The downside? They don't like being at home all day!

What Is Australian Shepherd Size?

The Australian Shepherd is a medium-sized dog that weighs between 40 and 60 pounds. They can measure up to 23 inches tall. For males, the average height exceeds 18 inches, while it's only 17" for ladies!

Australian Shepherd: Average Lifespan

The average lifespan of an Australian Shepherd is between 12 and 13 years.

This working dog was bred to have a lot of energy, which means they require a lot of exercise. Without it, they can become bored and destructive. Therefore, Aussies are most enjoyable when they're part of a family that enjoys being active and has a large fenced yard.

How to Take Care of Your Australian Shepherd's Health?

The Australian Shepherd is a relatively healthy breed, but some health conditions must be aware of.

Aussies' more common problems include hip dysplasia, nasal dermatitis, epilepsy, and cancer. To help ensure your dog stays healthy, take them to the vet for regular check-ups and vaccinations.

Here are some tips for taking care of your Aussie's health:

Let them do Exercise

As we mentioned, the Aussie was bred to work all day long. They need a lot of exercise to stay healthy and happy. A good rule of thumb is to provide them with at least 1 – 2 hours each day. This can be a mix of walking, running, and playing fetch.

Additionally, it's important to give them a safe place to run and play. A large fenced yard is ideal, but if you don't have one, many dog parks across the country will allow them to socialize and burn off some energy.

Regular Veterinarians Visits

As with any pet, it's important to take your Aussie for regular check-ups with the vet. This will help catch any problems early and keep your dog healthy.

Vaccinations and routine blood work are important, but don't forget to have their teeth checked. Dental disease is common in dogs and can lead to other health problems if left untreated.

Quality Food

What you feed your Aussie is just as important as how much you exercise them. A good diet will help them maintain a healthy weight, have shiny fur, and have plenty of energy.

There are many high-quality dog foods on the market, but it's important to talk to your vet to find the best food for your dog's individual needs.

What to Feed Your Australian Shepherd?

The Australian Shepherd is a medium-sized dog that needs a diet high in protein and fat. This working breed needs plenty of calories to maintain their energy level, so they should be fed high-quality dog food like;

• Whole grains
• Fresh fruits
• Starchy vegetables

How Much Does an Australian Shepherd Cost?

A cost range of $800 to $1800 may be anticipated for an Australian Shepherd puppy.

Final Thoughts on Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd is a loyal and loving breed that makes a great family pet. They are intelligent and easy to train, but need plenty of exercises to stay happy and healthy. If you are looking for a dog that will be by your side through thick and thin, the Aussie is the perfect breed.