BREED CHARACTERISTICS

Australian Shepherds were developed to herd livestock and work as all-purpose farm and ranch dogs. While many Aussies continue to work as stock dogs, the breed has earned recognition in a variety of other roles because of their intelligence, trainability and eagerness to please. Aussies also work as Search and Rescue dogs, guide dogs for the blind, therapy and hearing ear dogs, and drug detection dogs. They have become highly regarded for their skills in the competitive sports of obedience, agility and flyball. Most of all, they are beloved family companions.