When it comes to the herding breeds, I must admit, I’m a little biased… especially when the breed on topic is the Australian Shepherd. However, I would like to introduce you to the breed that has long been my favorite, and hopefully not be too partial! Now, before becoming too excited on finally discovering “the perfect sounding breed”, please realize that finding a suitable dog isn’t a “one size fits all” kind of deal! It all takes time and research. So, why do I like the Australian Shepherd? For me, I'm drawn to its eager to please nature, guardian instincts, energy level, friendliness, loyalty, and gorgeous physical appearance! ~TEMPERAMENT~ The Aussie, as this breed is often nicknamed, officially became recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1991. The modern Australian Shepherd makes a surprisingly suitable pet for singles, couples and even families. The Aussie is cheerful, and eager to please. Highly Intelligent, the breed is always willing to learn and excels in sports, though herding is always its first go-to. That said, the breed can easily adapt to city and suburban life. The Aussie tends to be wary around strangers, compliant towards indoor pets, and generally friendly towards children. Aussies are natural guardians at heart, continually prepared for the challenge of protecting his or her family. Though a decent family pet, the breed is best suited when in the hands of one primary care-giver and trainer. ~PHYSICAL APPEARANCE~ This breed is diverse in looks, opposed to most undeviating purebreds. For a shepherd, the Aussie is rather hefty in build. The chest is deep, the neck is broadly arched, the back is relatively strait, and in sizing, the overall dog is slightly longer than it is tall. The head, rounded at the dome, is well-proportioned to the body. The Aussie’s tail is either naturally bobbed or docked, according to standard. Coat color is assorted. Color variations include black, blue merle, red merle, red tri-color, black tri-color, brown, and white (though white is prohibited from all show rings.). Copper and white markings are generally pronounced. The Aussie’s ears are large and triangular rose, or drop. The breed’s eyes are triangular and/or almond, and range in color. Common colors cover brown (various shades), blue, or marbled brown and blue. Sizing at a glance: Height: 18-23 inches Weight: 45-70 pounds ~GROOMING~ It is best to use a pin brush and slicker as well as a stripping comb when grooming your Aussie. The breed requires brushing approximately 3-4 times a week. Though a fairly lengthy coat, it is surprisingly durable and does not require a whole lot of care. That said, Aussies do tend to shed heavily year-round. Annual bathing should be spaced no more then once a month. If any dog is bathed too frequently, special oils required to maintain healthy skin and coat may potentially deteriorate. ~EXERCISE & ENERGY~ The Australian Shepherd’s energy level is high, no doubt. In this breed’s case, a mere walk around the block will not suffice. Long walks, jogs, and/or bike rides are always most appreciated. The majority of herding dogs rarely become tired out, and the Aussie is certainly no exception. Due to its energetic side and high-intelligence level (it is said to be the 4th most intelligent breed as of 2013*), the breed requires mental exercise as well as physical. Brain stimulation/exercise includes advanced obedience training, dog tricks, and even sports, if you and your dog can endure. If the Aussie is not given your time in ways to strengthen and exert the brain (in one of the previous games and “jobs” mentioned), your dog will easily go ahead and make up his own job- which usually entails shredded furniture or escape routes dug about your backyard! ~HEALTH~ The Aussie is a comparatively healthy purebred. That said, no breed is perfect, and most have to face many genetic diseases. Common hereditary health issues can include: eye cataracts and other eye diseases, deafness, dental infirmities, hip dysplasia (where the hip bone is not fully/properly formed), and epilepsy (where the dog endures seizures). Eye diseases are said to be lessened in dogs with blue eyes. Deafness is found more frequently in any merle colored Australian Shepherd. ~CONCLUSION~ The Herding Group’s Australian Shepherd is no doubt an attractive-looking dog with a great personality- but does the cost and day-to-day maintenance suit you and your family? You must think about this before making your final decision on whether or not this breed suits you. If you want a calm or lazy dog maybe a Basset Hound, Pug, Bulldog, or even Great Dane would be more your speed! For Further Information on this breed: · http://www.asca.org (Australian Shepherd Club of America, Inc.) · http://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/australian-shepherd/ (American Kennel Club) · http://www.ukcdogs.com/Web.nsf/Breeds/HerdingDog/AustralianShepherd (United Kennel Club) · http://www.westminsterkennelclub.org/breedinformation/herding/ausshep.html (Westminster Kennel Club) · Australian Shepherds, written by D. Caroline Coile (book) · The Australian Shepherd, written by Tracy Libby (book) *To view test: http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/5-smartest-dog-breeds-chosen-by-veterinary-professionals “You [Noah] are to bring into the ark two of all living creatures, male and female, to keep them alive with you. Two of every kind of bird, of every kind of animal and of every kind of creature that moves upon the ground will come to you to be kept alive.” Genesis 6:19-20, NIV _______________________________________________________ I wonder, at times, what God was thinking when He created animals, specifically the pets whom we own and love. Each animal is so intelligent in design, it’s hard to think that it all simply happened by “chance”. It’s much more wonderful to know that there is Someone who knew that the dog would bring a smile to our faces, or other animals would bring joy into our lives. Out of millions who own and love pets, I’m no more than one. Yet, it doesn't take any research to realize just how marvelous animals truly are. I have had the amazing experience of owning various species, though still preferring the dog. The pleasure of pet-sitting dogs has given me experience with various temperaments, as well as fun insights on different individual dogs, not only my own pooch. Owning a parrot, having experience with aquatic animals, and dealing with cats also has given me more knowledge on the subject of creatures, great and small. In The Ark, I would like to pass on some of my interest, experience, and knowledge on the topic of animals. That said, I primarily will stick with dogs and other domesticated species. Why the title of The Ark? “The Ark”, though a boat, is generally noted in history as “Noah and the ark”. When someone hears the word, “ark”, they generally think of Noah and God sending a worldwide flood. However, the ark carried not only Noah and his family, but also animals- all land creatures. From the mouse to the elephant, all living things fit comfortably inside the enormous boat. The ark carried the land animals that could not survive a global flood- if there were no animals on the boat with Noah and his family, we would have none, besides perhaps some aquatic, on earth today. The title of The Ark, is picturesque of all animals, and us having dominion over God's creation, all cradled in the palm of God’s hand (Genesis 1:26). God saved man and animals from the flood, providing a safe place for them to stay. In The Ark section of The Slah, I plan to share with you my passion for animals, and, to the best of my abilities, provide interesting insights on wild animals, and care tips on domesticated. However, please keep in mind that my personal expertise are dogs, and therefore I will keep on par with that species a bit more than the rest. I hope to help you in your personal pet ownership as well as peak your interest in the animals we can’t own- like a hippopotamus or Giraffe. I plan on sharing breed profiles (expounded on below), scientific animal fact articles, pet dietary tips, pet training tips, etc. A few possible titles may include, “What does it mean to Take Dominion Over Animals Biblically?”, “The Grain-Free Diet for Dogs”, “How to Clip your Pet Parrot’s Wings”, “Reputable Informative Resources for Pet-Owners”, “Unique Aquatic Creatures”, “Photographing Animals”, and various breed profiles (i.e. the Labrador Retriever breed, or yellow-ringed octopus profile). The Ark hopefully will engage you, and for those of you who own animals, help you to learn how to care for the pet God has given you. A NOTE TO PET OWNERS: Parents don’t have to do all the research and work when owning any pet. For a research starter, go to www.vetstreet.com |
~COLUMNIST~
Faye L. |