The Australian Shepherd is a breed of herding dog from the United States. The name of the breed is technically a misnomer, as it was developed in California in the 19th century. It is believed to have its origins in sheepdog breeds from northwest Spain, as well as collies imported, alongside sheep, from Australia and New Zealand; the breed reportedly took its name from this trade. Originally used solely as a herding dog, the Australian Shepherd has become one of the most popular companion dog breeds in North America.
Australian Shepherd
Three Australian Shepherds
Variations of Australian Shepherd colors
An example of an abnormal eye of a double merle, "lethal white", Australian Shepherd: The abnormally small left eye is known as microphthalmia, and the pupil shows signs of subluxation which is dropped, not centered.
A herding dog, also known as a stock dog or working dog, is a type of dog that either has been trained in herding livestock or belongs to one of the breeds that were developed for herding. A dog specifically trained to herd sheep is known as a sheep dog or shepherd dog.
An Australian Kelpie backing sheep.
A Koolie working with sheep.
Sheepdog transported with livestock in Fairlie, New Zealand
A nine-week-old Border Collie directing ducks.
