Feature
Photo by Marco Rosetti
Built to Work
Why the Australian Shepherd Belongs on Today’ s Cattle Operations
By Sharon Rives
Why is an American-developed dog called the Australian Shepherd?
I could clearly explain the history of the breed, starting from the time of cavemen when dogs transitioned from being predators to our companions. I could trace this journey through European politics of the 1700s, human migration and the unique dogs that people brought with them from various cultures. Instead, I’ ll condense it and point to the basic origins of the Australian Shepherd, more affectionately known as the Aussie, which come from all across Europe and America in more recent memory.
To begin, let’ s explore the breed that contributed to the creation of the Aussie. The Pyrenean Shepherd, which hails from Spain, was brought to Australia by the Basques to assist with herding sheep in the outback. When those shepherds later immigrated to the American West, they settled with their sheep and their dogs. Coming from Australia, these dogs were referred to by locals as the“ Australian Shepherd’ s dog.”
Those early western pioneers— shepherds and farmers— curated these dogs. They refined the dogs’ unique appearance, versatile working style and abilities, giving us today’ s Australian Shepherd.
What’ s the Difference Between an Aussie and Other Stock Dogs?
In the world of stock dogs, different working styles divide them. These dogs work in specific ways for particular purposes and uses. They are often referred to as having either a“ tight
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