Pay close attention to the image and captions provided to help you
figure out the answer.
Key Points
They aren’t actually Australian.
Australian shepherds often have two different eye colors.
Many of their tails are naturally bobbed due to a genetic predisposition for heterochromia.
Welcome to the Australian Shepherd Quiz, where you can test your knowledge and learn more about one of the most energetic and loyal dog breeds! This shepherd is known for their intelligence, high energy, and friendly disposition, which is why they are suited to many different roles and make excellent family companions, but be prepared to spend time being active with these energetic pups.
Take the quiz to test your knowledge of Australian Shepherds if you believe you know everything there is to know about them or if you simply want to learn more about these intelligent animals!
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What is the origin of the Australian Shepherd breed?
The Australian shepherd is thought to have originated in the United States and this may be partially correct, as they were fully developed into the breed we see today in the western states in the 19th century. However, this high-energy herding dog didn’t begin there. Believed to have originally come from the Basque region of Spain, where Spanish shepherds had an ancient breed of sheepdog, now known as the Pyrenean sheepdog, that they took with them when they emigrated to Australia where they then crossbred with Collie dogs. These shepherds then headed to the United States with their dogs which were then referred to as Australian shepherds.
Whether they began their journey in the Basque region of Spain or in the Western United States, one thing is for certain, this adorable breed has many intriguing details to learn. This breed tends to be shy so you may want to socialize them at an early age to ensure they are exposed to many situations and people. Read below for more facts.
They gained popularity in the United States among ranchers due to their herding abilities
Shepherds were loved for use in rodeos because they can perform tricks and herd bulls
A dog of many names – they have also been called Spanish heelers, blue heelers and California shepherds
Their eyes are frequently different colors
They were considered a sacred breed by the Native Americans
These dogs need a job to do or else they may become destructive
Australian shepherds are excellent at agility sports like frisbee
They are known to become like “shadows” to their owners, following them everywhere
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What is the intelligence level of Australian Shepherds?
Melissa Bauernfeind was born in NYC and got her degree in Journalism from Boston University. She lived in San Diego for 10 years and is now back in NYC. She loves adventure and traveling the world with her husband but always misses her favorite little man, "P", half Chihuahua/half Jack Russell, all trouble. She got dive-certified so she could dive with the Great White Sharks someday and is hoping to swim with the Orcas as well.