Australian Shepherd Lifespan: How Long Do Australian Shepherds Live?

Did you know Australian Shepherds are one of the most popular breeds throughout the United States? It comes as no surprise that these lovable, hardworking dogs have won over the hearts of many families. 

Although they are called Australian Shepherds, these dogs are not from Australia, but rather from the United States. It is still uncertain how they earned their name. However, many speculate that the dog’s resemblance to Basque Shepherds from Australia is what prompted Americans to nickname them that.

Curious to find out more about these friendly dogs? Read on to find out more about the Australian Shepherd’s lifespan and life cycle.

How Long Do Australian Shepherds Live?

Australian Shepherds live 13 to 15 years on average. This is similar to other dogs their size and weight. This is comparable to other canines of the same size and weight. They often stand between 18 and 23 inches tall and have a medium build.

Everything about this breed’s look is said to be extremely unusual. Their eyes, for example, range from piercing blue to green or amber. Some Australian Shepherds have eyes that are two different colors! The Australian Shepherd also has a lovely long and wavy double coat in a variety of colors.

Unfortunately, many Australian Shepherds are predisposed to hip and elbow dysplasia, cancer, and epilepsy. This is why it is critical to take the best possible care of your Australian Shepherd in order for them to live a long and healthy life.

Now that you know the average Australian Sheperd’s lifespan, You may be curious about what their life cycle looks like. Let us start by explaining it down below!

The Average Australian Shepherd Life Cycle

Let’s go through the steps that an Australian Shepherd must go through in order to become the lovely dog that we all know and love today.

Newborn Puppies

The weight of newborn Australian Shepherd puppies varies, but it quickly doubles after the first week of life. Australian Shepherd puppies, like other puppies, are born blind and deaf and rely on their mothers to maintain their body temperatures. After the first three weeks, Australian Shepherd puppies can see and hear for the first time. It is important that the first 8 weeks of an Australian Shepherd’s life be spent with its mother.

Puppies 

Australian Shepherds are now between the ages of 4 and 6 months. At this time, they can weigh anything from 18 to 25 pounds and resemble little adults. Training is essential at this stage in your puppy’s life to guarantee that he or she learns right from wrong and avoids any damaging behavior that may arise in the future. Aussies will begin to demonstrate playful activity at this period, but because they are prone to dysplasia, too much exercise at this vulnerable stage is not suggested.

Adulthood

After 16 months, Australian Shepherds reach adulthood. At this age, they should have grown into their full adult coat and weigh between 40 and 60 pounds. Your Australian Shepherd will be at its most lively at this age, but it is still critical not to overwork its joints. Now is the time to start thinking about hobbies and activities that you and your Aussie will do. Frisbee is a favorite pastime of Australian Shepherds! “Hyper Hank” was a popular Australian Shepherd in the 70s who became famous for playing frisbee and even appeared in the Superbowl.

Senior

The Australian Shepherd reaches his senior stage when he is 10 years old or older. Now is the period when your Aussie may not be able to run as quickly or jump as high as they once could. Exercise is still necessary, but it should shift from high-intensity jogging to more long leisurely strolls. His new senior routine should include at least two vet checks per year.

How To Extend The Life Of Your Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd tends to live longer than other medium and large breeds, but adequate care and exercise should be provided on a regular basis. This breed makes an excellent all-around family companion, which is why we’ve compiled a list of things you can do to extend the Australian Shepherd lifespan.

Looking to extend the Australian Shepherd’s lifespan? Here are some of the top tips that will help contribute to your Australian Shepherd’s longevity:

• Diet and Nutrition: Australian Shepherds require a diet rich in high-quality animal protein as well as necessary fatty acids. This not only improves their overall health on the inside, but it also helps sustain their thick double coats. Protein is required to help them create strong muscles, and because this breed is so lively, a greater fat content is required.
• Grooming: One thing to keep in mind regarding Australian Shepherds is that they shed a lot. Grooming is key to their well-being and should be taken into account. Brushing this breed as much as possible is the best thing you can do for them! They like being rubbed, and brushing stimulates their skin. Because this breed sheds a lot, you should never contemplate shaving them. Their coat keeps insulated them from the cold and heat.
• Proper Mental Stimulation and Exercise: Australian Shepherds are extremely lively and like being given jobs to do. Because these animals are herding breeds, proper mental stimulation and exercise are essential in preventing destructive behavior. Taking a stroll twice a day and having lots of toys to play with at home can create one very happy Australian Shepherd.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Maria Ulzutueva/Shutterstock.com