Australian Shepherd Breed Basics & Health Guide

Before you pick a puppy or plan for the years ahead, it helps to know how the breed looks, how color genetics work and how long Aussies typically live.

Looks and genetics

• Australian Shepherd Colors: the four recognized colors and their markings
• Blue Merle Australian Shepherd: coat, eyes, genetics and health

Health and lifespan

• Australian Shepherd Lifespan: how long they live and what affects it

Coat care questions? See our Shedding & Grooming guides.