The Australian Shepherd was actually developed in America, but there are many debates over the origins of the foundation stock. It is believed dogs travelled over with flocks of Merino sheep and the Basque shepherds who tended them. Some contend they came to Australia from Spain when the first Merino sheep arrived, and then travelled on to America. Others believe they were Australian Sheepdogs derived from the Smithfield and some type of Collie – possibly the German Coolie or its ancestor. The name came about because of the perceived link with this country and the herding of Australian Merino sheep.

In Australia the breed is in its infancy, only having been introduced in 1990. Australian Shepherds were fully recognised by the Australian National Kennel Council on January 1, 1994. Since then, the dog has gained considerably in popularity, competing successfully in conformation, obedience and agility.

AVERAGE LIFESPAN

The Australian Shepherd generally lives up to 13 years of age and with the proper care and fed the correct amounts of nutrition can often live up to 15 years of age.

BREED PERSONALITY, CHARACTERISTICS & TEMPERAMENT

The Australian Shepherd is good-natured with an even disposition. It may be somewhat reserved when meeting people for the first time, but there should never be any display of shyness or aggression. This breed is primarily a working dog with strong herding and guarding instincts. It is very agile and works with style and enthusiasm. Although not couch potatoes, some are quite content to be lap dogs. Extremely intelligent and devoted to their families, they are quick to learn and very easy to train.

COMPATIBILITY WITH OTHER PETS

Reserved, but good with animals they grow up with.

CARE REQUIREMENTS

A huge yard is not required for this breed, but daily exercise is a must.

Please take note:
"Grinning" is a characteristic of some Australian Shepherds and is not to be mistaken for snarling.

IDEAL OWNERS

The Australian Shepherd is perfect for the person wanting a highly trainable dog. If you have the time and commitment to take on an Aussie Shepherd, you won't be disappointed.

IN CONCLUSION

If you have decided that the Australian Shepherd is the dog for you and you are prepared to exercise this dog for at least 30 minutes a day, contact one of the groups listed below:

DECISION TIME

Before making a decision on getting a puppy, here are some articles you might find helpful:

• What do we need to consider if we are thinking of buying a puppy?
• How do I determine which breeder to use?
• What should you ask the breeder?
• How do you check if the breeder is reputable?
• What to ask your vet prior to buying a puppy

RECOMMENDED BREEDERS

Breeder Name	Kennel	State
Leanne Irvine	Hotnote	WA	Contact
Hayley Lamb	Borderton	WA	Contact
Wendy Atkins	DYKINTA	NSW	Contact
Alisa Rye	Azproudaz	NSW	Contact
Shirley/Jeff Ford	Walkabout	QLD	Contact
C and T Gibbs	Chriton	QLD	Contact
Pauline Aspinall	Hytop	NSW	Contact
Trevor and Elaine Powell	everlaine	VIC	Contact
Jeni and Mark Sach	Kaasha	NT	Contact
Berlinda Shepherdson	Ripkurle	WA	Contact
Sally Puglisi	Oakblu	QLD	Contact
Kylie & Jason Kuhn	Koolanahill	QLD	Contact
Michelle Upton	Branksy	NSW	Contact
Ana Richardson	Ellagant	VIC	Contact
deidre masters	Mahteek	NSW	Contact
Linda Mattews	Tuscamada	SA	Contact

* We have vetted and approved these independent breeders as meeting, at the time, our criteria for the reliable breeding, feeding, care and sale of suitable quality puppies of this breed. This does not mean that other breeders do not meet these criteria or are not otherwise suitable suppliers. Nor can our vetting and approval guarantee the quality of a breeder or puppy or that you will be happy with them. We disclaim any liability for the quality, acts or omissions of these breeders or their puppies and our approval of breeders is not a substitute for you making all appropriate enquiries and checks (including veterinary checks) before choosing a specific breeder or puppy.

CANINE CLUBS

Australian Capital Territory ACT Canine Association Inc PO Box 815 Dickson, ACT 2602 Tel: 02 6241 4404 Fax: 02 6241 1129 Email: CONTACT Website: www.actca.asn.au (Details correct as of 1/08/04)		New South Wales Royal New South Wales Canine Council Ltd PO Box 632 St Marys, NSW 1790 Tel: 02 9834 3022 or 1300 728 022 (NSW only) Fax: 02 9834 3872 Email: CONTACT Website: www.rnswcc.org.au (Details current as of 1/08/04)
Northern Territory The North Australian Canine Association Inc PO Box 37521 Winnellie, NT 0821 Tel: 08 8984 3570 Fax: 08 8984 3409 Email: CONTACT Website: www.users.bigpond.com/naca1/ (Details correct as of 6/08/04)		Queensland Canine Control Council (Queensland) PO Box 495 Fortitude Valley, Qld 4006 Tel: 07 3252 2661 Fax: 07 3252 3864 Email: CONTACT Website: www.cccq.org.au (Details correct as of 1/08/04)
South Australia South Australian Canine Association Inc PO Box 844 Prospect East, SA 5082 Tel: 08 8349 4797 Fax: 08 8262 5751 Email: CONTACT Website: www.saca.caninenet.com (Details correct as of 1/08/04)		Tasmania Tasmanian Canine Association Inc The Rothman Building PO Box 116 Glenorchy, Tas 7010 Tel: 03 6272 9443 Fax: 03 6273 0844 Email: CONTACT Website: www.tca.freeservers.com (Details correct as of 1/08/04)
Victoria Victorian Canine Association Locked Bag K9 Cranbourne, Vic 3977 Tel: 03 9788 2500 Fax: 03 9788 2599 Email: CONTACT Website: www.vca.org.au (Details correct as of 1/08/04)		Western Australia Canine Association of Western Australia Inc PO Box 1404 Canning Vale, WA 6970 Tel: 08 9455 1188 Fax: 08 9455 1190 Email: CONTACT Website: www.cawa.asn.au (Details correct as of 1/08/04)