Australian Shepherd Breed Info
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Aussies are a very intelligent, highly trainable and active breed.  They excel at herding and protecting.  For this reason, daily exercise and early socialization are needed.  Aussies are an alert "watchdog" that will bark at unusual activity.  

Aussies are very devoted family members.  It is usual for them to follow you everywhere.  Some Aussies do not care for strangers and may be protective.  Also, they may try to drive strange animals off their property.  Aussies will get along with cats if socialized with them at a young age.

Aussies may chase livestock because of their herding instincts.  However, they MAY be trained to leave them alone and/or herd in an appropriate manner. 

Aussies have a double coat that will go through a major shedding process once or twice a year.  This is called "blowing coat".  Adult coats are fairly self-cleaning.  After playing in a mud puddle, most of the dirt will fall out after drying.  Regular combing and nail clipping are required.  Please note that this breed has a bobtail.