Australian Shepherd. Charlotte Schwartz

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       X-ray of a dog with “Moderate” dysplastic hips.

       CANCER

      Cancer has been known to occur in some Aussies. It cannot be considered a common problem, but owners need to be aware of the possibility. Treatment is sometimes effective but, as in humans, it can also result in an early demise.

       HIP DYSPLASIA (HD)

      Hip dysplasia is genetically transmitted in Aussies and is a developmental problem of the hip joint. Dogs born with a “susceptibility factor” for HD should be monitored carefully to prevent their becoming overweight or over-exercised at a very young age while the bones are still developing. Basic conformation of the individual dog and caloric intake are also contributory factors in producing dysplastic dogs.

      By age 24 months, dogs can be x-rayed to determine whether or not they have HD. If the answer is affirmative, a realistic program of maintenance can be instituted to minimize the dog’s suffering and manifestation of motor problems.

      Under some circumstances, surgery is called for and is usually successful in relieving pain, though the dog may be left with a permanent limp.

      Based on x-ray diagnosis, the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) rates the quality of the hip joint as excellent, good, fair, borderline or dysplastic. From this analysis, responsible breeders choose dogs for their breeding programs who are certified free of hip dysplasia.

       HYPOTHYROIDISM

      Hypothyroidism is a hormonal problem. Though it is difficult to diagnose and has several potential causes, it is usually easy to treat with medication. Some of the types of thyroiditis can begin early in life. However, they often don’t become clinically apparent until later in life after the dog reaches three years of age.

       OTHER PROBLEMS

      A small number of Aussies have developed other health problems such as collie eye, some cardiac conditions, epilepsy, elbow dysplasia and allergies. Since these problems have appeared in very few Australian Shepherds, they cannot be considered breed problems.

       SKIN PROBLEMS

      Eczema and dermatitis are skin problems that occur in many breeds and they can often be tricky problems to solve. Frequent bathing of the dog will remove skin oils and will cause the problem to worsen. Allergies to food or something in the environment can also cause the problem. Consider asking the vet about homeopathic remedies in addition to conventional treatment.

       Hardiness is part of the Australian Shepherd’s nature and, as such, he generally makes a very healthy pet if properly cared for, fed, exercised and checked by the veterinarian.

      Whenever we refer to the standard of a breed, we are actually talking about the standard of perfection of that breed. The standard of perfection of a breed is a word picture that describes in detail exactly what the ideal specimen should look like. In addition, most standards include some reference to temperament and character, so the overall picture of the breed is made clear.

      Judges use the standard in determining the best dog presented to them on any given day in conformation classes. Breeders use the standard of the breed to produce puppies that will grow into adult dogs closely resembling the ideal specimen, both in physical appearance and temperament.

      The American Kennel Club (AKC) is guided in its description of the Aussie by the Australian Shepherd Club of America, the parent club that upholds and enforces the standard in the US. Following is an excerpt from the AKC standard.

       AKC STANDARD FOR THE AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD

      General Appearance: The Australian Shepherd is an intelligent working dog of strong herding and guarding instincts. He is a loyal companion and has the stamina to work all day. He is well balanced, slightly longer than tall, of medium size and bone, with coloring that offers variety and individuality. He is attentive and animated, lithe and agile, solid and muscular without cloddiness. He has a coat of moderate. length and coarseness. He has a docked or natural bobbed tail.

       BREEDER’S BLUEPRINT

      If you are considering breeding your bitch, it is very important that you are familiar with the breed standard. Reputable breeders breed with the intention of producing dogs that are as close as possible to the standard and that contribute to the advancement of the breed. Study the standard for both physical appearance and temperament, and make certain your bitch and your chosen stud dog measure up.

       In conformation showing, the judge feels under the coat to check for correct body construction and bone structure.

      Size, Proportion, Substance: Size—The preferred height for males is 20–23 inches, females 18–21 inches. Quality is not to be sacrificed in favor of size. Proportion—Measuring from the breast-bone to rear of thigh and from top of the withers to the ground the Australian Shepherd is slightly longer than tall. Substance—Solidly built with moderate bone.

      Head: Clean cut, strong and dry. Overall size should be in proportion to the body. The muzzle is equal in length or slightly shorter than the back skull. The muzzle tapers little from base to nose and is rounded at the tip.

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