Australian Shepherds New Mexico Are Loyal And Protective

By Janine Hughes


In the early 19th century, Australian shepherds were first bred in the western states of America. Their job was to herd farm and ranch animals like sheep, ducks, geese and rabbits. They were also popular attractions in rodeos. In recent years, this breed has been used as guide and therapy dogs, in search and rescue operations, and as detection and disaster canines

This medium-sized breed weighs up to 65 pounds and stands up to 26 inches tall. They are born with either long or bobbed tails. The life expectancy of Australian shepherds New Mexico is approximately 12 years. The American Kennel Club recognized this breed in the herding group in 1991.

Their high intelligence and strong desire to please their owner makes this breed easily trainable. They are extremely obedient, kind and loving. They are very loyal to their master and yearn to be at their side on a constant basis. Although they do not bark a lot, they will alert their owner of a presence on the property.

Aussies have a high level of energy and need a lot of attention and exercise for both mental and physical well being. They should be allowed to exercise and play for at least two to three hours each day. Otherwise they tend to become hyper and destructive. They are extremely good at dog sports like agility and Frisbee.

There are four main colors associated with this canine. Black shepherds may also have white or brown markings, and red shepherds can also sport the same color markings. Blue Merles have marbled gray, black and white colors; and Red Merles have marbled red, buff and white colors. Black and red dogs with white and tan markings are known as tri-colored dogs, but those with just white or tan markings are called bi-colored. Blue Merle and black breeds have lips, noses and eyelining that is black. Red Merle and red breeds are brown in these areas.

The eyes of these animals are either blue or brown. Both eyes may be the same shade or one eye can be blue and the other brown. They can also sport one or both eyes that are split with both colors. Brown eyes are commonly seen in the black breeds, and amber eyes are more evident in the red breeds.

Aussies can have eye problems like red eye, conjunctivitis and teary eyes. They may also suffer from cataracts or blindness in later years. Other health concerns are deafness, epilepsy, skin rashes or allergies, heart problems and breathing difficulties. Hormone levels produced by the thyroid can be lower than normal causing hypothyroidism, and abnormally formed hip joints may lead to painful arthritis and mobility issues.

Inherited conditions include iris coloboma that is a defect or hole in the iris. Another possible inherited ailment is Pelger-Huet anomaly that is abnormal white blood cells. This is not a health issue for animals with just one gene of this. However, afflicted animals should not be bred with other Aussies affected by this gene since their pups will inherit multiple genes and have a very short life span.

These shepherds are ideal working dogs or family pets. Aussies for sale in Albuquerque, NM are beautiful animals with friendly personalities and traits. They adapt well to individuals, families with children or groups of people.




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