Australian Shepherd for sale

They can be excellent family companions when their exercise and mental needs are met. Their energy and herding drive can be overwhelming in very low activity households, especially with small children who may be chased or nipped. Active families that enjoy training, hiking, and dog sports usually find the breed a better fit. Consistent structure and early training are important in any home.

Most adults need at least 1 to 2 hours of physical exercise daily, plus regular mental work such as training, scent games, or herding-style activities. A short walk is not enough for this breed. Without an outlet, they often develop problem behaviors such as barking, chewing, or obsessive habits.

They are moderate to heavy shedders with seasonal shedding that can be intense. Brushing several times a week helps manage loose hair and prevents mats, especially in the feathering behind the ears, under the legs, and along the hindquarters. Baths can be occasional if the coat is brushed regularly. Trimming is usually limited to the feet and sanitary areas rather than full-body clipping.

They can live in an apartment, but only if they receive substantial daily exercise and structured activity outside the home. A yard is helpful for short play sessions, but it does not replace real exercise or mental stimulation. Without this, they are more likely to become noisy, anxious, or destructive in close quarters.

The breed is prone to several inherited issues, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, certain eye diseases, and epilepsy. Many lines also carry the MDR1 gene mutation, which affects how they process some medications. Responsible breeders screen for joint, eye, and genetic conditions and will discuss specific risks in their lines. Regular veterinary checks and a lean body weight help lower the impact of joint and metabolic problems.

MDR1 is a genetic mutation that affects how some herding breeds handle certain drugs, including some dewormers and medications used for diarrhea or cancer treatment. Dogs with the mutation can have serious or even life-threatening reactions to normal doses. A simple DNA test can determine status, and owners should share the result with their veterinarian so drug choices and doses can be adjusted safely.

They have an increased risk of several eye conditions, including hereditary cataracts, Collie eye anomaly, and progressive retinal atrophy. Not every dog will be affected, but these diseases can lead to impaired vision or blindness. Breeding dogs should have regular eye exams by a veterinary ophthalmologist, and owners should report any cloudiness, squinting, or changes in vision promptly.

They can be social and playful with other dogs, especially when well socialized from a young age. Some individuals show herding behaviors such as circling, chasing, or nudging other pets, which not all animals appreciate. Proper introductions, supervision, and training cues to interrupt overzealous herding are important. With small animals, caution and careful management are advised.

The herding instinct is often strong and can appear as chasing, circling, heel nipping, or body blocking motion. Around running children, this can be misinterpreted as aggression or can accidentally cause falls. Early training to redirect this energy into appropriate behaviors, along with structured play and clear rules, makes a big difference. Children should also be taught how to move calmly and interact respectfully.

Merle is a common and attractive coat pattern in the breed, but breeding two merle dogs together greatly increases the risk of puppies born deaf, blind, or with severe eye defects. Ethical breeders avoid merle to merle pairings and can explain the genetics behind their breeding choices. Owners of merle dogs should also be aware that some eye and hearing issues may appear later and should monitor for subtle signs.