Last Updated: 23/03/2026
Australian Shepherd Breed Guide
Thinking of an Australian Shepherd? Our breed guide covers facts, health, and care.
Author: Dr Michelle Wong BVSc
Reading Time: 6 minutes - short read
The Australian Shepherd is an intelligent, high-energy working dog that thrives when given a "job" to do. Despite their name, they were developed in the United States and are famous for their agility, loyalty, and striking coat colours.
All about Australian Shepherds
Place of origin
USA
Weight range
16-32kg
Breed size
Medium
Height range
46-58cm
Breed group
Working
Life expectancy
12-15 years
Coat colours
Blue Merle, Red Merle, Black, Red
Grooming needs
Moderate
Coat type
Medium/Double
Health issues
Hip Dysplasia; Eye Issues
Shedding factor
High
Exercise needs
Very High
Play style
High Energy
Housing needs
Yard Required
Trainability
Excellent
Social needs
High
Family suitability
High
Tendency to bark
Moderate
Nutrition
Providing a high-quality, balanced diet is fundamental to supporting the demanding energy levels and maintaining the athletic condition of an Australian Shepherd. Proper nutrition also plays a vital role in supporting their joint health and ensuring their striking double coat remains healthy and vibrant.
Best food for adult Australian Shepherds
Adult Australian Shepherds require a diet that is rich in high-quality animal proteins to support their lean muscle mass and active lifestyle. Given their predisposition to joint issues, foods containing added glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega fatty acids are highly beneficial for long-term mobility. Their thick double coat requires specific nutrients, such as biotin and zinc, to maintain its protective qualities and shine. Since they are prone to becoming "workaholics" and may push themselves even when tired, a calorie-dense formula designed for working or active breeds is often the best choice to ensure they maintain an ideal body weight.
What to look for
Look for high-quality animal protein as the primary ingredient to support active muscle maintenance.
Select formulas enriched with glucosamine and chondroitin to provide essential support for joint health and mobility.
Choose a diet containing optimal levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to promote a healthy skin barrier and a lustrous coat.
Best food for Australian Shepherd puppies
Australian Shepherd puppies undergo rapid growth and development, requiring a precise balance of calcium and phosphorus to support healthy bone and joint formation. A puppy formula designed specifically for medium to large breeds helps regulate growth rates, reducing the risk of developmental skeletal issues.
High levels of DHA, an omega fatty acid typically found in fish oil, are crucial for supporting the brain and vision development of these highly intelligent puppies. To fuel their endless curiosity and energy, their diet should provide concentrated energy and highly digestible ingredients that are gentle on their developing digestive systems.
What to look for
Ensure the food contains controlled levels of calcium and phosphorus for steady and healthy skeletal development.
Prioritise highly digestible ingredients and prebiotics to support a healthy gut microbiome during the growth phase.
Look for added DHA from fish oil sources to support cognitive function and early learning in intelligent breeds.
Flea & worming
Routine flea, tick, and worming prevention is critical for Australian Shepherds to protect them from debilitating parasites and the diseases they carry. For this breed specifically, it is vital to choose products that are safe for those who may carry the MDR1 gene mutation.
Best flea and worming treatments for Australian Shepherds
When selecting a parasite preventative for an Australian Shepherd, it is best to look for "all-in-one" monthly treatments that protect against fleas, ticks, heartworm, and intestinal worms. Given the breed's potential sensitivity to certain active ingredients like macrocyclic lactones, owners should consult their vet to ensure the chosen product is safe for their specific dog. Oral chewable tablets are often preferred for this active breed as they are not affected by swimming or frequent bathing, which is common for dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors. Ensuring the product covers the Paralysis Tick is especially important for Australian Shepherds living in or visiting coastal areas of Australia.
What to look for
Choose an oral chewable format for convenience and to ensure the protection isn't affected by swimming or bathing.
Opt for comprehensive protection that covers fleas, ticks, heartworm, and all common intestinal worms in a single dose.
Ensure the active ingredients are suitable for breeds potentially affected by the MDR1 gene mutation.
Health
Incorporating specific health products into an Australian Shepherd's routine can proactively manage breed-specific risks and improve their overall quality of life. Using the right products ensures that their physical health can keep up with their active minds and high energy levels.
Products to keep Australian Shepherds healthy
For active Australian Shepherds, joint supplements containing Green Lipped Mussel or high-quality glucosamine are excellent for supporting cartilage health throughout their lives. Additionally, dental health products like dog-safe toothpastes, dental chews or water additives are important.
What to look for
Select joint support supplements featuring glucosamine, chondroitin and/or omega-3s to maintain long-term mobility.
Joint health and mobility therapeutic diets if recommended by your veterinarian.
Incorporate daily dental care products to prevent plaque buildup and support overall systemic health.
Training and activity
Australian Shepherds require a diverse range of toys and walking accessories that cater to both their physical stamina and their high level of intelligence. Choosing the right gear is essential for managing their herding instincts and ensuring they remain safely under control during adventures.
Best toys for Australian Shepherds
Australian Shepherds excel at games that mimic their herding background, making frisbees and long-distance fetch toys ideal for burning off physical energy. To satisfy their sharp minds, interactive puzzle toys and treat-dispensing challenges are necessary to keep them occupied when they aren't out on a "job." Tough, durable rubber toys are a must, as their persistence in play can lead to heavy chewing. Toys that encourage "foraging" or scent work, such as snuffle mats, can also be a great way to provide mental enrichment and calm them down after a high-intensity session.
What to look for
Choose aerodynamic fetch toys like frisbees that allow for high-speed physical exertion and jumping.
Invest in complex level 2 or 3 puzzle toys to challenge their problem-solving skills and prevent boredom.
Look for durable, high-quality materials that can withstand intense and prolonged play sessions.
Best harnesses, collars and walking accessories for Australian Shepherds
A front-attach or multi-point harness is often the best choice for an Australian Shepherd to provide better control and discourage pulling during walks. Given their athletic nature, a bungee lead can be helpful for shock absorption if you enjoy running or power-walking with your dog. For training and recall, especially in open spaces, a long training lead (5-10 metres) is an excellent tool for practicing commands while maintaining safety. High-visibility or reflective gear is also recommended for those early morning or late evening treks, ensuring your dog is always visible to others.
What to look for
Consider a bungee or shock-absorbing lead if the dog is used as a running or hiking companion.
Select reflective or LED-integrated leads and collars to ensure safety during low-light walks.
Use a well-fitted harness with multiple attachment points to provide comfort and better directional control.
Grooming
The dense, medium-length double coat of an Australian Shepherd requires specific grooming tools to manage shedding and prevent matting. Regular grooming sessions are not only about looks but also provide a great opportunity to check for any skin issues or parasites hiding in their thick fur.
Best grooming products for Australian Shepherds
An undercoat rake is the most important tool for an Australian Shepherd owner, as it effectively removes dead hair from the dense undercoat during shedding seasons. A slicker brush should be used regularly to smooth the outer coat and remove surface debris and minor tangles before they turn into mats. Because their coat is somewhat water-resistant, a high-quality deshedding shampoo can help loosen the coat during "blow-out" periods in spring and autumn. Always ensure their ears are dried thoroughly after bathing, as their feathered ears can trap moisture, potentially leading to ear infections.
Because they spend so much time outdoors, paw balms can be used to protect and soothe their pads from hot pavement or rough terrain.
What to look for
Regularly use a slicker brush to prevent matting in high-friction areas like behind the ears and under the legs.
Use an undercoat rake to reach through the topcoat and safely remove trapped dead hair from the undercoat.
Choose a deshedding-specific shampoo and conditioner to manage the high volume of hair lost during seasonal changes.
Sleep and home
After a long day of working and playing, an Australian Shepherd needs a dedicated, comfortable space to rest and recover. Choosing the right bedding helps support their joints and provides a sense of security within the home.
Best beds for Australian Shepherds
An orthopaedic memory foam bed is highly recommended for Australian Shepherds to provide superior support for their joints and pressure points. Because they can sometimes overheat due to their thick coats, beds with breathable covers or elevated designs that allow for airflow can help them stay comfortable in warmer weather. For those who enjoy the "denning" instinct, a large bed with raised edges or bolsters can provide a sense of security and a place to rest their head. It is important to choose a bed with a removable, machine-washable cover to easily manage the hair and outdoor dirt that an active Aussie Shepherd will inevitably bring inside.
What to look for
Opt for orthopaedic foam bases to provide essential cushioning for the joints of active working breeds.
Look for removable and durable covers that can withstand frequent washing to manage high shedding levels.
Consider an elevated bed design or cooling gel inserts if the dog tends to overheat in summer.
Australian Shepherd FAQ
