User:Bcant085/Australian Shepherd

History
The Australian Shepherd breed is a part of what is known as the 'Herding Group' or previously known as the 'Working Group' as they have an instinctual ability to heard and protect farm-land livestock.

Appearance
In many cases, Australian Shepherds can have two different coloured eyes, this condition is called heterochromia. It is not uncommon to see an Australian Shepherd with this condition causing them to have one brown and one blue eye, or other eye-colour combinations.

Temperament
The Australian Shepherd is known to be uneasy around new individuals, and it is encouraged that the dog is socialized from a young age but also not forced into uncomfortable contact with another dog or person. Being a highly intelligent dog breed, the Australian Shepherd has been known to "outthink" their owners. It is highly recommended that owners prioritize obedience training to redirect the Australian Shepherd into engaging in positive behaviours rather than allow for the dog to adapt negative or destructive habits. This breed is easily trainable as the dog's alertness and eager to please personality makes for a determined companion who will quickly pick up on its owners commands.

Health
The most known disease that Australian Shepherds suffer from is Autoimmune Thyroiditis. This disease can be managed, and the treatment is usually of reasonable cost.

To maintain a healthy coat, ultimately working to sustain the physical health and comfort of the dogs skin, it is recommended to brush the coat daily, or at least, weekly.