Basque shepherds first brought the ancestors of this outstanding herding dog to the United States as stock dogs to work the sheep imported from Australia in the late 1800s and early 1900. The Australian Shepherd, as a breed, was developed within the United States and is the only American-produced herding breed. Australian Shepherds are superior farm dogs, capable of doing the work of several men and handling all kinds of stock on any terrain. They are also outstanding in obedience and agility, often placing high in trial. The versatile, intelligent Australian Shepherd has served as a narcotics detection dog, service dog for the deaf, on search and rescue teams, and in therapy work. The breed is also known for excellence with the Frisbee. The AKC, the CKC, the United Kennel Club and the Australian Shepherd Club of America recognize the Aussi. Today's Aussie is both a popular farm dog and a loyal family companion.

Being bred to work hard all day means that most Aussies are not content to be couch potatoes, although Aussies have individual characters and some are more sedate and quiet natured than others. For the most part, however, these are high energy dogs who need a purpose in their lives-a job as it were. Owners must be committed to give these dogs the time and attention they require through play and training, for as with any dog, undirected energy can turn towards destructive behaviors such as digging and chewing. Running, jumping, and roughhousing are all a part of being a normal Aussie.

Aussies need lots of action - every day attention. Only a walk is not enough. I bring Tana everywhere with me, so she can be busy all the time. This isn't a dog to be left alone for 8 hours with nothing to do. They need an owner with lots of energy, so they can show us what they can do and to show us how happy they are if they have enough to play.

About Aussies
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