Australian Shepherd

Exercise by Age

1. Puppy (under 1 year)

   5 min per month of age, twice a day

   Limit exercise to 5 minutes per month of age, twice daily. Avoid high-impact activities to protect growing joints.

2. Adult (1-10 years)

   14,000 steps

   Full daily goal applies. Mix walks with play, training and mental stimulation.

3. Senior (10+ years)

   9,800–11,200 steps

   Reduce intensity by 20-30%. Shorter, more frequent walks. Watch for signs of fatigue or joint stiffness.

Exercise Needs

A very high-energy breed that needs 90+ minutes of intense daily activity.

About the Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd is a medium-sized breed with a medium-length, double coat. They have a wedge-shaped head and a muscular body, with a straight, medium-length tail. The Australian Shepherd is an intelligent working dog that is eager to please and loves to be around its family. They are known for their loyalty and are often used in agility, obedience, and herding events.

Facts about the Australian Shepherd

• Exercise

  Herding breeds need 2+ hours daily including mental challenges — puzzle toys or obedience training are non-negotiable.

  AKC

• Behavior

  Many herding breeds nip at heels as instinct — gently socialize around small children to redirect the drive.

  VCA

• Health

  Many herding breeds carry the MDR1 gene — ask your vet about drug sensitivities before any surgery or dewormer.

  VCA

• Training

  Herding breeds learn commands remarkably fast — advanced tricks, agility, and obedience courses let them thrive.

  AKC

• Did You Know

  Border Collies can learn over 200 human words with consistent training — the record-holder knows over 1,000.

  AKC

• Exercise

  Aussies need 2+ hours daily + mental work. Agility, frisbee, herding games all fit — a flat walk isn't enough.

  AKC

• Health

  Many carry the MDR1 gene mutation — test before any surgery, anti-parasitics, or pain meds. Vet MUST know.

  Washington State University MDR1 database

• Behavior

  Bonded to handlers, protective of family. May nip heels (herding instinct) — redirect to toys and fetch early.

  VCA

• Did You Know

  Despite the name, developed in 19th-century western US from imported herding dogs (collies via Australia plus Pyrenean/Basque stock) — origin is American, not Australian.

  AKC history; Wikipedia

Frequently asked questions

How much exercise does a Australian Shepherd need?

A Australian Shepherd needs about 14,000 steps a day. A very high-energy breed that needs 90+ minutes of intense daily activity.

How big does a Australian Shepherd get?

Adult Australian Shepherds typically weigh 17–30 kg and stand 46–58 cm at the shoulder.

How long do Australian Shepherds live?

A Australian Shepherd usually lives 12–16 years.

What is a Australian Shepherd's temperament?

Australian Shepherds are typically Good-natured, Affectionate, Intelligent, Active, Protective.