Hard-working, intelligent dogs with strong family ties, the Australian Shepherd loves to get his job done. Australian Shepherds are a herding dog who needs work and a lot of daily exercise. They love their families but can be somewhat reserved around strangers. Owners who are able to supply challenging physical and mental activities for their dogs (e.g. they excel in agility) are ideally suited for this breed. Australian Shepherds routinely rank in the top-5 of “Canine Intelligence” tests, so it is no surprise that they need a challenge. Their coat requires regular brushing, but they are not a “high-maintenance” grooming breed. Keywords: Active, athletic, intelligent
Each AKC approved purebred breed has its own national club. The mission of these “parent breed clubs” is to improve and preserve a particular breed by advancing knowledge about its history, its health and care requirements and by assuring that the breed’s form and function remain true to its historical physical type and character: A Dalmatian, for instance, should be athletic and have a natural affinity for working with horses. A Fox Terrier should have the right body size and shape, and a drive to go after vermin.
Pet owners, breeders, trainers, veterinarians, and others with a special love for a breed, join the parent breed club to meet like-minded enthusiasts and to support the club’s mission.
he national parent breed club is the first place for the public to go to learn about a breed or find a knowledgeable, experienced breeder.
Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
