Australian Shepherd Calculators

The Australian Shepherd is a highly intelligent, intensely energetic herding breed developed in the American West (despite the name). They are the preferred breed of rodeo cowboys and competitive dog sports enthusiasts alike. Aussies are not a dog for the faint-hearted — they need a job, substantial daily exercise, and significant mental engagement.

Australian Shepherds weigh 16–32 kg, with merle and tri-colour coats in a variety of striking combinations. They live 12–15 years. An under-stimulated Aussie will find their own entertainment — usually something destructive. Many Aussies suffer from anxiety when their needs are not met.

MDR1 Gene Mutation — Drug Sensitivity

Approximately 50% of Australian Shepherds carry the MDR1 (ABCB1) gene mutation, which makes them sensitive to certain drugs at normal doses. Affected dogs can have fatal reactions to ivermectin (common in some dewormers), loperamide (Imodium), and several chemotherapy drugs. All Aussies should be tested before any drug administration. A simple cheek swab test is available from Washington State University's Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Lab.

Hip Dysplasia and Eye Conditions

Hip dysplasia affects a significant proportion of Aussies. Annual OFA screening of breeding stock is standard practice in responsible breeding programs. Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) are inherited eye conditions present in the breed — breeding stock should be DNA tested. Cataracts also occur with above-average frequency.