While said to have been called many other names in the past, including Spanish Shepherd, Pastor Dog, Bob-Tail, Blue Heeler, New Mexican Shepherd, and California Shepherd, the Australian shepherd, as it is now known, is not really a product of Australia. By most accounts, this breed developed in the United States to be used as a herding dog. However, the misnomer of Australian shepherd likely comes from the fact that the ancestors of this dog came to America by way of Australia. Some claim that the Basque people of Europe settled temporarily, with their sheepdogs, in Australia, until they moved to the western United States. Americans working the sheep herds named the dogs "Australian shepherds" because of the dogs previous residence. The rugged terrain of the country was demanding on the breed, and it was crossed and selected for its ability to work in such conditions. The developing breed adapted well and gained some popularity...... Find out more about this dog breed.
Australian Shepherd Pictures
Australian Shepherd Breeders
Australian Shepherd Clubs
Australian Shepherd Info
Australian Shepherd Rescue
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