Facts & Origin
Australian Shepherd and Shetland Sheepdog mix - a hybrid breed.
This mixed breed is the best of both worlds. With the herding instinct of the Australian Shepherd and the intelligence of the Shetland Sheepdog, this is an intelligent and versatile dog. Add to that their loyal and affectionate nature, and you have the perfect family pet.
What are breed characteristics of this mix dog?
The Australian Shepherd Shetland Sheepdog mix is a medium-sized dog with a slender, athletic build. The head is medium sized and proportional to the body, with erect ears and a pointed muzzle. The eyes are almond shaped and vary in color from light brown to blue. The coat is medium long and dense, with a thick undercoat. Common coat colors are black, white and brown. The tail is of medium length and usually curled over the back. Body measurements for this breed typically range from 14-18 inches (35-45 cm) at the shoulder and 33-55 pounds (15-25 kg).
| Alternate Name | - |
| Origin | USA - Scotland |
| Life expectancy | 10 - 15 years |
| Care requirements | high-maintenance |
| Activity level | high |
| FCI group | not recognised |
| AKC group | not recognised |
| KC group | not recognised |
More Australian Shepherd mixes
More Shetland Sheepdog mixes
Attitude, character and temperament of the breed
Possible character traits of Australian Shepherd and Shetland Sheepdog mix - Such is probably his nature.
The Australian Shepherd-Shetland Sheepdog mix, also known as the Aussie-Sheltie, is a cross between two of the most popular herding dog breeds - the Australian Shepherd and the Shetland Sheepdog. These dogs are intelligent, energetic and make great family dogs. They are also great working dogs that excel in agility and obedience competitions.
The Aussie Sheltie is a medium sized dog with a medium length coat. The coat is usually black and white or tri-color, with a mixture of the colors of the two parent breeds. The Aussie Sheltie is an active dog that needs plenty of exercise. He is intelligent and easy to train, making him a good candidate for obedience and agility competitions.
The Aussie Sheltie is a loyal and loving dog that will make a good addition to any family. They are good with children and other pets. They need plenty of exercise and socialization and are most comfortable in a home with a yard where they can run and play. With proper care and training, the Aussie Sheltie can be a wonderful pet.
Character
Usage
Health and breeding information
What diseases can affect Australian Shepherd and Shetland Sheepdog mix.
There are a number of known diseases that can affect Australian Shepherd-Shetland Sheepdog mixes, including hip and elbow dysplasia, eye problems such as progressive retinal atrophy, and certain neurological disorders. Responsible breeders investigate these diseases, but it is important to be aware of them if you are considering this mixed breed.
Hip and elbow dysplasia are both orthopedic conditions that can cause pain and lameness. They are caused by a malformation of the hip or elbow joint and are more common in larger breeds. Dogs with dysplasia may require surgery to correct the problem.
Progressive retinal atrophy is an eye disease that slowly leads to blindness. It is not curable, but can be treated with medication and special care.
Australian Shepherd-Shetland Sheepdog mixes have also been found to have certain neurological disorders, including epilepsy and degenerative myelopathy. These disorders can be severe, and affected dogs require lifelong treatment and care.
What does this mixed breed look like?
This Australian Shepherd-Shetland Sheepdog mix has a dense, medium length coat that is predominantly black with some white markings. The undercoat is dense and soft and provides good insulation against the cold. The coloring of this mixed breed is unique and striking.
| Fur length | long |
| Fur | flat coated |
| Ear shape | Standing Ears - Tilt-ear |
| Tail | fanned out |
| Anatomy | sporty, sporty |
| Size ♀ | 33 - 54 cm |
| Weight ♀ | 6 - 32 kg |
| Size ♂ | 33 - 58 cm |
| Weight ♂ | 6 - 32 kg |
| Suitable For | - |
Known Diseases
Hip dysplasia (HD)
Hip dysplasia (HD) is a genetic condition in dogs where the hip joint is not shaped properly. This leads to pain, stiffness and restricted movement.
Elbow dysplasia (ED)
Elbow joint dysplasia is a chronic disease complex of the elbow joint of fast growing dog breeds.
MDR1 defect
The MDR1 defect is a defect in the MDR1 gene that can occur in some breeds of dogs and in humans. This results in the deficient or absent synthesis of a certain protein which is an important component of the blood-brain barrier, leading to hypersensitivity to some drugs.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a slowly progressive death of the retina in dogs.
Numbness
Often occurs in old age.
Eye diseases
Often occur with allergies and intolerances.
FAQ
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The Aussie-Sheltie mix is a medium-sized mixed breed with silky, wavy fur that can come in a variety of colors. They have a compact body, long head and muzzle, and erect ears.
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The most common colors for an Aussie Sheltie mix are black, blue and merle.
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The average life expectancy of an Aussie-Sheltie mix is 12-15 years.
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Yes, Aussie Shelties generally do well with children if raised with them from a young age. They are also generally good with other pets.
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Yes, a lot of exercise. You have to reckon with about 2-4 hours of daily run / walks or training. Gladly also more.
