Breed facts
| FCI group | Group 1: Sheepdogs and cattle dogs |
| Origin | United States |
| Weight | 16–32 kg |
| Height | 46–58 cm |
| Life expectancy | 12–15 years |
Temperament
Very intelligent, active and loyal, it needs plenty of exercise and work. It can be protective and reserved.
History
Despite the name, it developed in the United States from shepherd dogs linked to Basque shepherds who had passed through Australia.
Fun facts
It can have eyes of different colours and be born with a short tail.
The Australian Shepherd coat
A coat with a dense undercoat and a longer outer layer. It sheds a lot, especially during the moult.
A medium-length coat with an undercoat and feathering behind the ears and on the “trousers”, where tangles form.
What we do in the salon
We bathe with a suitable shampoo, remove the dead hair from the undercoat, then dry and brush thoroughly. We do not recommend shaving this type of coat: it protects against cold and heat and may not grow back the same.
Recommended services
- Bathabout 1 h
How often?
| Bath | every 6 to 8 weeks (and during the moult) |
| Cut / upkeep | Clipping is not recommended; remove the undercoat during the moult (spring and autumn). |
Care at home between visits
- Brush 2 to 3 times a week, and every day during the moult.
- Use a slicker or undercoat rake, always down to the skin.
- Do not shave: the undercoat helps regulate temperature.
- Dry the undercoat well after a bath to avoid damp and odour.
Frequently asked questions about the Australian Shepherd
Does the Australian Shepherd shed a lot?
It sheds a lot, especially during the moult (spring and autumn). Regular brushing and a bath with dead-hair removal help a great deal.
How often should I bring my Australian Shepherd to the salon?
In general, a bath every 6 to 8 weeks (and during the moult). Clipping is not recommended; remove the undercoat during the moult (spring and autumn). It depends on the coat, the cut you like and the condition of the coat: we will advise you at the first visit.
How long do a bath and a clip take?
When you book online, 1 hour is reserved for a bath and 2 hours for a clip, scissor cut or hand stripping. Very dense coats or large breeds may need more time: talk to us.
Can I shave the coat in summer?
We do not recommend it: the undercoat helps regulate temperature and the coat may not grow back the same. It is better to remove dead hair with a bath and brushing.
Weight and height values are approximate and vary from dog to dog. Based on FCI standards and public breed profiles; care text: DogsClub. Last updated: October 2026.