I am your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog. You are my life, my leader!
I will be yours, faithful and true to the last beat of my heart. I am your Australian Shepherd!
My Beloved Australian Shepherds
I have always loved dogs. From a young age I was mostly involved with German Shepherds. When I was finally allowed to keep a dog myself - because I finally had my own apartment - I got a German Shepherd mix that had been kept in extremely poor conditions. This was followed by other Shepherds, all of which came from animal rescues or animal shelters. After decades of giving these poor souls a home - four dogs in total, who lived between 7 and 15 years - I finally wanted a puppy that was "normal" and hadn't experienced anything bad. In an online horse market I stumbled across an advert for puppies for sale. I spontaneously fell in love with a small, black bundle of fur - she was the love of my life. - Sky! - My first Australian Shepherd! - What a dog!
| Standard Aussie | ||
| Born: | 16.05.2010 | |
| Litter-Number: | 2 of 7 | |
| Coat: | Red tri | |
| Eyes: | brown | |
| Gender: | ♀ | |
| Height: | 52 cm | |
| Weight: | 26 kg | |
| Birth-Location: | Wangerland / Friesland / Germany | |
| Passed: | 30.04.2024 | |
| Standard Aussie | ||
| Born : | 16.05.2010 | |
| Litter-Number: | 7 of 7 | |
| Coat: | Black tri | |
| Eyes: | brown | |
| Gender: | ♀ | |
| Height: | 50 cm | |
| Weight: | 22 kg | |
| Birth-Location: | Wangerland / Friesland / Germany | |
| Passed: | 22.07.2023 | |
| Standard Aussie | ||
| Born: | 06.07.2023 | |
| Litter-Number: | 10 of 12 | |
| Coat: | Black tri | |
| Eyes: | brown | |
| Gender: | ♀ | |
| Weight: | 53 cm | |
| Height: | 22,5 kg | |
| Birth-Location: | Speinshart / Oberpfalz / Germany | |
| Toy Aussie | ||
| Born: | 09.12.2024 | |
| Litter-Number: | 3 of 4 | |
| Coat: | Blue Merle with copper | |
| Eyes: | blue | |
| Gender: | ♀ | |
| Height: | ↑ 28.5 cm | |
| Weight: | ↑ ca. 3,5 kg | |
| Birth-Location: | Westerheim / Unterallgäu / Germany | |
Someone called them soul dogs... ...those dogs that only exist once in a lifetime!
Who you were allowed to accompany and who guided you along every path.
Who were like a shadow and like the air you breathe...
Soul dogs - they are unforgettable ... because they changed a life and continue to live in you even after their death.
You feel it - in your thoughts, your actions, your feelings!
The Standard Australian shepherd
The Australian, who originates from the U.S.A.
We have had dogs for many years, mainly in the "Shepherd" category. These included German Shepherds, Canadian Shepherds and German Shepherd mixes. I liked them all very much, but no breed of dog captivated me as much as the Australian Shepherd. I would like to briefly introduce these dogs here. You can find out everything about the breed either from the A.S.C.A. (Australian Shepherd Club of America) or the A.S.C.D. (Australian Shepherd Club Germany).
A very special sheepdog...
The Australian Shepherd is a dog breed from the USA that has been recognized by the FCI since 1996 (FCI Group 1, Section 1, Standard No. 342). The leading breeding association for the Australian Shepherd is the Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA), which opened the first stud book for the breed in 1957.
Despite its name, the breeding origins of the Australian Shepherd lie in North America, due to its association with Basque shepherds who immigrated from Australia to America in the 19th century. They brought with them Merino sheep that had previously been exported to Australia and were therefore given the name "Australian Sheep" in North America. The first register was opened by the Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA), founded in Arizona in 1957. In 1966, the International Australian Shepherd Association (IASA) was founded. ASCA and IASA merged to form one club in 1980 and have since become the largest breed club in North America.
The current ASCA breed standard came into force in 1977. The American Kennel Club (AKC) has maintained a stud book for Australian Shepherds since the early 1990s and also developed its own breed standard, which came into force in January 1993. The Australian Shepherd has only been a breed recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) since 1996. The current breed standard is dated June 5, 2009. Australian Shepherds have been found in Europe since the 1970s, but have become more common since then. In Germany, the Australian Shepherd Club (CASD) has been the first association to maintain a stud book since 2001.
Not a dog for beginners!
Since the Australian Shepherd was bred for herd work, dogs of this breed belong only in the hands of active, sporty owners who can keep the dogs busy and keep them fully occupied. Purely physical activity such as walking or cycling is not enough to challenge an Australian Shepherd. Demanding activities in dog sports offer physical and mental exercise. Authorities and rescue services use the breed for tracking and drug detection. With species-appropriate exercise, Australian Shepherds are also suitable as family dogs. The Australian Shepherd is generally an intelligent and docile dog that wants to please its owner.
Color is key for the Aussie!
The Australian Shepherd has a balanced build with medium size and bone strength. According to the FCI standard, the males should be between 50.8 and 58.5 cm tall, the females between 45.7 and 53.4 cm tall, but quality should never be sacrificed for size. The coat is medium-long, weatherproof and has a dense undercoat, with the top coat being smooth to slightly wavy. The hair is short and smooth on the head, on the outside of the ears, the front of the front legs and below the hocks.
A distinction is made between the following basic colors. Each of these basic colors can stand alone or be combined with white and/or copper-colored markings. This results in 16 possible color variants - 4 basic colors times 4 possible marking combinations (without/white/copper/copper and white):
- black
- black bi (black / white)
- black bi (black / copper)
- black tri (black / copper / white)
- blue-merle (marbled black with grey base color)
- blue merle bi (marbled black / white)
- blue merle bi (marbled black / copper)
- blue merle tri (marbled black / copper / white)
- red
- red bi (red /white)
- red bi (red / copper)
- red tri (red / copper / white)
- red-merle (marbled red / brown with light red / beige base color)
- red merle bi (marbled red / white)
- red merle bi (marbled red / copper)
- red merle tri (marbled red / copper / white)
The Australian Shepherd...
...is a medium-sized dog breed with a size of 46 - 58 cm. Growth is completely finished after about 15 months. The dog should then have reached its final size. The final weight varies depending on gender and is between 16 - 32 kg. As a rule, Aussie boys are about 4 kg heavier than Aussie girls.
Girls
- height: ca. 46cm - 54cm
- weight: ca. 16kg - 25kg
- life expectancy: 13 - 15 years
- full grown ca. 13 month
Aussie girls are of average weight. After about 3 months they reach a weight of 8 kg. At 6 months the average weight of the girls is about 15 kg. The girls reach their final weight, which is between 16 - 25 kg, at about 13 months.
| Age | Weight | Height |
|---|---|---|
| 2 month | 5.40 kg | 12,5 -25cm |
| 3 month | 9.00 kg | 28 – 33 cm |
| 4 month | 12.40 kg | 28 – 35,5 cm |
| 5 month | 15.20 kg | 30,5 – 35,5 cm |
| 6 month | 17.40 kg | 33 – 38 cm |
| 7 month | 19.00 kg | 35,5 – 40,5 cm |
| 8 month | 20.30 kg | 38 – 43 cm |
| 9 month | 21.30 kg | 40,5 – 45,5 cm |
| 10 month | 22.20 kg | 43 – 45,5 cm |
| 11 month | 22.80 kg | 45,5 – 51 cm |
| 12 month | 23.30 kg | 45,5 – 53,5 cm |
| 13 month | 23.70 kg | final size |
| 14 month | 24.10 kg | final size |
| 15 month | 24.50 kg | final size |
| 16 month | 25.00 kg | final size |
Boys
- height: ca. 51cm - 58cm
- weight: ca. 25kg - 32kg
- life expectancy: 13 - 15 Jahre
- full grown ca. 15 month
Aussie boys are of average weight. After about 3 months they reach a weight of 10 kg. At 6 months the average weight of the boys is about 19 kg. The final weight, which is between 25 - 32 kg, is reached by the boys at about 15 months.
| Age | Weight | Height |
|---|---|---|
| 2 month | 6.50 kg | 12,5 -25 cm |
| 3 month | 11.20 kg | 28 – 33 cm |
| 4 month | 15.50 kg | 30,5 – 35,5 cm |
| 5 month | 18.80 kg | 33 – 38 cm |
| 6 month | 21.20 kg | 38 – 43 cm |
| 7 month | 22.90 kg | 40,5 – 45,5 cm |
| 8 month | 24.30 kg | 43 – 48,5 cm |
| 9 month | 25.60 kg | 45,5 – 51 cm |
| 10 month | 26.70 kg | 48,5 – 53,5 cm |
| 11 month | 27.80 kg | 51 – 56 cm |
| 12 month | 28.70 kg | 51 – 58,5 cm |
| 13 month | 29.40 kg | 51 – 58,5 cm |
| 14 month | 30.20 kg | 51 – 58,5 cm |
| 15 month | 31.00 kg | final size |
| 16 month | 32.00 kg | final size |
The right size for everyone!
There are three variations of the Aussi, but no matter which one you choose, you will always get a genuine Aussi.
STANDARD AUSSIE: The height for males and females is 46 cm to 58 cm at the withers.
MINIATURE AUSSIE: The height for males and females is 35.6 cm to 45.6 cm at the withers.
TOY AUSSIE: The height for males and females is 25.4 cm to 35.5 cm at the withers.
The Miniature Australian Shepherd
Miniature Australian Shepherd
blue merle white / copper
The Mini Aussie is a separate breed, fully recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2015. While the American Kennel Club lists the Mini Aussies as "Miniature American Shepherds," the American Stock Dog Registry lists them as "Miniature Australian Shepherds." However, they are the same dog; there is no difference.
Breed Description
- The Mini Aussie is between 35 and 46 cm tall.
- They weigh between 9 and 18 kg.
- The Mini Aussie has the traditional Aussie colors:
- The black variant: blue merle, black, black bi, black tri,
- The red variant: red merle, red, red bi, and red tri.
- The markings can be white and/or copper on the bi/tri.
- The life expectancy is typically around 13–15 years.
Temperament
The Mini Aussie is a strong-willed, energetic, intelligent dog, and protective of its family. It is definitely not suitable for first-time owners. As a herding dog, it requires a lot of attention and exercise. These dogs are perfect companions and do not like being separated from their owners. If left alone for too long, they can develop separation anxiety. They typically bond most strongly with one family member, but are protective of all.
The Toy AusTralian Shepherd
The Toy Australian Shepherd isn't a recognized breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC), but that doesn't mean this fluffy bundle of energy isn't worth considering. The Toy Aussie is affectionate, lively, and has a brain to rival even the great Sherlock Holmes. They make excellent family companions, especially for those with active lifestyles. Most Toy Australian Shepherds grow to 35 cm tall and weigh between 5.5 and 7.7 kg.
Is the Toy Aussie a true Aussie?
The clear answer is: yes!
Toy Australian Shepherds are a size variation of the Australian Shepherd breed and not a crossbreed of various small dog breeds. The Toy Australian Shepherd was created by crossbreeding small miniature Aussies over a long period of time. The Toy Aussie represents a size standard of the Australian Shepherd. The ASDR also considers the Toy Australian Shepherd to be a purebred.
Although not officially recognized as a breed by either the AKC or the Royal Kennel Club (RKC), they have existed for decades. They were likely first selectively bred in the 1990s. Contrary to popular belief, Toy Aussies are not the same as Miniature Australian Shepherds; Toy Aussies only grow to about 35 cm tall, while Miniature Australian Shepherds can grow up to 46 cm.
As the name suggests, the Toy Australian Shepherd is essentially a scaled-down version of the Standard Australian Shepherd. He has an athletic build, triangular ears, and a medium-length, double coat that comes in a variety of colors and patterns and is either smooth or slightly wavy. Consisting of a weather-resistant, coarse outer coat and a fluffy, dense undercoat, he's no different from his larger relatives. He also has a striking, piercing gaze.
- By the way: Don't worry, Aussies of all sizes only shed twice a year!
- They shed their winter coat from around December to June.
- They shed their summer coat from around July to December.
Small but mighty! - A little bundle of energy!
The Toy Australian Shepherd is a loyal, energetic, and affectionate dog who will do anything to please their favorite people. They have a strong work ethic and love being given tasks, making them ideal for activities like agility and herding. While Toy Aussies are sociable and devoted to their families, their strong bond with their humans makes them prone to separation anxiety. This is especially true if left alone for extended periods. Toy Australian Shepherds have their roots in herding, but that doesn't mean they don't appreciate a good cuddle outside of their work. They are incredibly affectionate and often show their affection through kisses, eye contact, and constant tail wagging.
Toy Australian Shepherds are excellent with children, undoubtedly thanks to their caring, gentle, and patient nature. Due to their strong herding instincts, the Toy Aussie is also prone to herding children and nipping at their heels.
Early training and socialization are crucial to keeping this behavior under control.
Toy Aussies get along well with other dogs, especially breeds of similar size and temperament.
Please note: Like their larger relatives, the Toy Aussie is not a dog for beginners!
About the Heat
The female dog's heat cycle consists of four phases, the duration and sequence of which vary depending on the dog. Most female dogs come into heat for the first time between the ages of six and twelve months. When a female dog reaches sexual maturity depends on her size, her physical development and her general condition. If a female dog is not spayed, she will come into heat approximately twice a year throughout her life.
PLEASE KEEP THE GIRLS ON A LEASH! Many of them forget their manners and are difficult or even impossible to recall. Some are more affectionate and want to cuddle more than usual, they seem lethargic, melancholic or lazy. Others, on the other hand, are a bit overexcited and cannot calm down. You have to observe the dog closely to detect even barely noticeable symptoms.
- Phase 1: Pre-heat (proestrus): 3 - 17 days
Swelling of the vagina.
Bleeding occurs.
Frequent marking (similar to male dogs) to signal readiness.
Not yet ready to mate! - Phase 2: Heat (estrus): 3 - 21 days
The swelling of the vulva subsides.
The discharge becomes yellowish, watery or slimy instead of bloody.
There are usually several ovulations between the second and fourth day.
The female dog is ready to mate! - Phase 3: Post-heat (metestrus): 9 - 12 weeks
The vagina completely subsides.
The discharge disappears.
The female dog is usually no longer ready to mate.
The progesterone level is still elevated for around 59 to 62 days (one to two months) after ovulation. Pseudopregnancy may - but does not have to - occur after the heat. - Phase 4: Resting phase (anaestrus): several weeks or months
No visible signs of heat.
No behavioral abnormalities.
No willingness to mate!
The Australian Shepherd Breeding Associations
The Australian Shepherd Club of America
ASCA was founded in 1957 as the parent club for the breed.
It is the largest independent, breed-specific club in the United States and is proud to represent our Australian Shepherds.
ASCA is much more than a registry; it is a community!
ASCA is here to help you discover why Aussies are so great.
The Australian Shepherd Club Germany
Here you will find lots of information about the Aussie, the events offered, contact details and much more!
The ASCD is happy to help you with any questions you may have!
What does DNA-VP or DNA-CP mean behind the name?
DNA-CP: “CP” stands for “certified parentage”, this addition appears behind the name of the DNA-identified dog if none or only one of the dog’s parents is DNA-identified and simply means that this dog has been DNA-tested and recorded.
DNA-VP: “VP” stands for “verified parentage”, this addition appears behind the name of the DNA-identified dog if both of the dog’s parents are DNA-identified. The biological parents are therefore proven.
Since January 1st, 2011, all ASCA breeding dogs must be DNA verified. Since December 1st, 2003, all dogs registered in the ASCD stud book must be DNA verified. The DNA is extracted from blood and examined in appropriate laboratories. This is purely a lineage test. Tests for genetic diseases are carried out in separate laboratory tests. Further information can be found on the homepages of various laboratories.
Physical test
High requirements are placed on dogs that are to be approved for breeding: HD examination by X-raying the hip joints and shoulders and assessment by recognized experts must be carried out. A complete scissor bite certified by a veterinarian must be present in both sexes. In male dogs, the presence of testicles is mandatory (no undescended testicles allowed!). The annual eye examination is a basic requirement.
Genetic test
In order to minimize genetic diseases in Australian Shepherds, there are a whole range of genetic tests that can be used to find the breeders of such defective genes. These tests are offered by laboratories such as "Laboklin" in Germany or "UC Davis" in the USA. Animals with corresponding genetic defect test results are not allowed to breed.
