What a strange name for a dog breed, isn’t it? And yet it really does exist. If you want to be precise, the Aussiedor is a mix of Australian Sheppard and Labrador. The first thing we notice when we see him for the first time is his imposing size, his drooping ears and his broad face.
But what is he like? Is he as workaholic as the Australian Sheppard or is he just a typical family dog like the Labrador with a pronounced tendency to move. We will see.
Character of the Aussiedor
The character of this dog breed is, how could it be otherwise, a good combination of the good qualities of the Labrador as well as the Australian Sheppard. Thus we can list the following character traits:
- Reliable
- Alert
- Extremely extroverted
- Athletic
- Brave
- Loyal
- Family friendly / child friendly
Along the way, as we know it from the Labrador, he is anxious to please his owner and to carry out his commands. Accordingly, he uses his intelligence and all his potential in his upbringing to be able to actually carry out the desired lessons to the satisfaction of his owner. So it is no wonder that he performs preferably brilliantly in every discipline that is presented to him.
The historical background of the Aussiedor
One thing is certain: the Aussiedor is one of the newer breeds we find on the dog market. As intensively as we can deal with the history of the Australian Sheppards and the Labradors, so little history in the classical sense is available to us for the Aussiedor.
The place of its origin is to be found in the USA. Because of the name, it is assumed that the first attempts at breeding were already made with an Australian Sheppard as well as a Labrador. Due to his mutually inherited abilities, he was initially used primarily as a herding dog. He was also used in films, but also in rodeos, which helped him to gain a certain popularity.
In addition, he gained a good reputation as a guide dog, rescue dog, mantrailer (search dog), therapy dog and drug dog, often referred to as a sniffer. You can see: His field of application is huge, so the demand is quite high. Due to his size, he can even be trained as an accomplished guard dog. The very good swimming abilities he has received from his Labrador ancestors.
The colours of the Aussiedor
The coat can turn out differently, depending on the genes of the ancestors, short, medium long or even wavy. Basically, we are dealing with a dense, water-repellent coat. This allows him to stay outside in wind and weather.
The coat does not need much care. Dirt falls off quickly on its own, as the coat is always dry again quickly. Brushing from time to time is enough for the Aussiedor, but it is more a kind of wellness for him than a necessity. He does not shed much. If you want to dress him up for a show, the coat is very well suited for training.
What are the requirements of the Aussiedor?
The Aussiedor combines the characteristics of all its ancestors. On the one hand, he is dutiful and up to a certain point workaholic. On the other hand, he is blessed with great intelligence, which he would like to use. Thus, he not only demands a lot of exercise, but also tasks that appeal to his intellect.
If you are looking for a dog with whom you “just have to go for a walk”, the Aussiedor is a bad choice. Long walks, rides with dog and bike or rides with horse and dog, intensive work in the dog sports club – quite honestly: this dog needs tasks. This is also the reason why he is so well suited as a rescue or search dog, therapy, school and disabled companion dog.
At the same time, however, he wants to be the centre of the family. Cuddling and playing with children and / or adults are the most important things for him. For this, he will even give up exercising every now and then.
Being alone, however, is a lesson that will take a little more time. Because he just doesn’t like to be alone. Therefore, these times should be kept as short as possible. Of course, you can practise being alone so that the time period can be extended. However, you should not overdo it. He might resent that.
An Aussiedor who cannot act out can be prone to crazy ideas. Depressive episodes or psychosomatic illnesses are also conceivable. Correct, both are rather rare in dogs, but can still occur if the dog is neglected.
Apart from all these “little things”, the Aussiedor is an absolutely low-maintenance dog that turns out to be an excellent companion. A true friend of man.
The Aussiedor and his health
As a puppy, the dog should not be given too much exercise, otherwise damage to the hips may occur. This should be avoided at all costs. The elbows could also suffer damage. As soon as quite a respectable “young musculature” has developed, movement can then begin.
There is also a predisposition to epilepsy as well as a multi-resistance to various drugs. In this regard, a veterinarian should be contacted in time so that the epilepsy can be kept at a minimum level and any drug intolerances can be dealt with quickly.
As a result, eye diseases can occur. Lethargy, reduced life expectancy, hearing impairment, developmental abnormalities of bones, bone structure and organs, and fertility problems in both males and females can also occur.
Remember, it is only a MAY, not a MUST. Nevertheless, one should carefully consider whether one wants to join the trend towards the merle-coloured dog, which runs through all affected breeds.
Advantages and disadvantages of the Aussiedor
The advantages of the Aussiedor clearly lie in the combination of the potentials of the Labrador and the Australian Sheppard. Working and movement urge paired with loyalty and intelligence are not common. In addition, it must not be forgotten that the Labrador belongs to the retrieving dogs, so that this ability also makes him a very special mixed package.
At the same time, it is often this combination that makes it difficult for the owner to give the dog adequate physical and mental exercise. It can happen that the dog is only used to “one-track” activity. If in doubt, it is always a good idea to take the dog for another walk, as long and as large as possible, so that at least the physical component is not neglected.
His wide-ranging abilities give the Aussiedor an extremely versatile field of application, so that owners should consciously decide on one task, one discipline. Certainly this dog is open for many lessons, but of course one should not overtax him with too many disciplines.
In the course of his life, the lessons can increase or change. So it will never be boring for him. Nevertheless, every gifted dog also needs a focus. Which one this is, will crystallise in the course of his puppy training or shortly thereafter.
Dealing with children is not a problem if the dog has been trained accordingly from an early age. However, one should always keep in mind that this is a dog that has been used both for hunting and as a herding dog, or has the potential to do so through its ancestors. So it is not meant badly if he leads “his children” like a herd and perhaps also pinches once in a while. For him, this is the means to an end.
For the children, of course, it would be an unforgivable assault. So it is the responsibility of the owner to ensure the safety of both, through good education of the dog, which should start as early as possible, and through early sensitisation of the child/children to the dog and its needs and requirements.
His pronounced urge to move can be very time-consuming. Time that you definitely have to take for this dog in order to do it justice.
The perfect person for an Aussiedor
The Aussiedor needs a gentleman, a family who enjoys exercise, spending a lot of time outdoors and in nature. Because of the potential this dog gets from the Australian Sheppard, the owners should already have some experience with dogs. This is because the Australian Sheppard is used to making his own decisions and working independently. The Labrador is very obedient and wants to please his owner.
However, you will only find out which genetic potential is predominant in the individual Aussiedor in the course of his life. Therefore, beginners should rather refrain from acquiring a Aussiedor. Dog savvy and, if possible, experience with the different, demanding dog sports is definitely an advantage.
Besides the regular dog sports, this dog is best suited for mantrailing, but also for working with herds (sheep, goats, cattle). Dog sports disciplines that take a lot of time, but are very satisfying for both dog and master.
Remember, this dog has many of the characteristics of a guard dog. Thus he is always anxious to protect his own pack, his herd and his territory. Of course, this can sometimes lead to vehemently preventing strangers, such as a delivery person or a salesman, from entering the property / the flat. This dog will make this unmistakably clear. With appropriate training and conditioning, however, there will be no attacks.
Buying Aussiedor puppies
To make sure that the breeder is indeed reputable, ask to see the breeding records. Inspect the dogs’ accommodation and make sure they are in good health. Of course, the breeder will endeavour to give you all the information in as much detail as possible. “It goes without saying that the puppy and its new owner should meet at least once a year. A serious breeder will never release his puppies too early.
First equipment for the release home
- Dog collar
- Dog harness
- Dog leash, in addition possibly a drag leash
- Water and food bowl, if possible easy to clean
- Dog bed / blanket for the resting place
- Long hair brush
- Undercoat brush
- Dog comb / lice comb
- Possibly clippers (but these should only be used if you really know how to use them).
- Dog food
- possibly toys
- possibly treats
Dog food for the Aussiedor
Basically, the Aussiedor is unproblematic in its diet. However, due to its health dispositions, it cannot do any harm to consult a veterinarian. Based on his experience in nutritional counselling, he can create an optimised diet plan.
If you are very familiar with BARFEN, you can also choose this diet. Because BARFEN is a natural feeding option and therefore (almost) always a good idea.
Conclusion
No, the Aussiedor is not one of the most common dog breeds in UK. Nevertheless, it is a fantastic dog that you would not want to miss after the first training phase. He needs dog sense and assertiveness and is very versatile. His parade role is the centre of family life in the evening.
FAQ
How much does a Aussiedor cost?
You can expect a price between £800 and £1500 for the Aussiedor. Currently the prices can also be much higher.
Where does the Aussiedor come from?
This dog breed is bred in the USA, but also in Canada. Where exactly it actually first appeared is not precisely documented.
How old does the Aussiedor live?
The Aussiedor can have a life expectancy of 12 years.
What is the size and weight of the Aussiedor?
The average shoulder height of the dog is between 55 and 63 centimetres. The weight can be between 18 and 36 kilograms. The females are smaller and lighter than the males. But it is not always a serious difference.
How many puppies does the Aussiedor have?
The average litter contains 5 to 8 puppies. As with any dog, larger or smaller litters may occur.
Is the Aussiedor a hunting dog?
Like his ancestor, the Labrador, the Aussiedor liked to be taken hunting along the water or was specially trained for this. This is still the case today, but not in our latitudes. Here its task as a hunting dog is rather the exception. However, if you train your puppy in this direction from an early age, you will find an excellent hunting dog at your side. The prerequisite for this, however, is that the Labrador’s genes have the upper hand.
Is the Aussie a family dog?
The Aussiedor is often taken in as a family dog. Due to its loyal behaviour on the part of the Labrador, its position in the middle of a family with lots of cuddles is its favourite. However, one should always keep an eye on the dog with small children. After all, he is half Australian Sheppard. And they are used to herding and keeping their herd together. To do this, you have to be a little strict once in a while if necessary.
So that he doesn’t have to nip out once in a while to crack down, one should either keep the children under control or, if they are already older, teach them how best to get along with this dog. Youngsters should already be taught the art of dog handling.
Provided the socialisation has gone optimally and the dog has been trained in the best possible way, he is one of the greatest family dogs imaginable. BUT he is not a beginner dog! Dog sense and assertiveness are prerequisites for good training. Otherwise he will take command, just like a herding dog.
Can the Aussiedor be kept in a (city) flat?
If you look at the size of an Aussiedor, you would be able to assume that the flat should not cause him any problems. However, it would not be fair to the dog to keep him indoors. Not only does he need sufficient intellectual and physical stimulation and that on a daily basis. No, he should also have the option of getting some independent exercise in the garden. Here, care should be taken to ensure that the garden is well enclosed.
Does the Aussiedor belong to the large dog breeds?
The Aussiedor has a shoulder height of 55 to 63 centimetres and thus belongs to the large dog breeds.
Is the Aussiedor a hunting dog?
This dog can easily be trained as a hunting dog. However, it is more likely to be a herding dog, companion dog or family dog.
Which dog sports can be practised with the Aussiedor?
Because of his potential he will be able to prove himself in most dog sports. He will especially enjoy working with mantrailers. But he will also always cut a fine figure in agility, dog frisbee or obidience.
Where does the Aussiedor come from?
The breeding of this breed from the Labrador and the Australian Sheppard can be traced back to the USA. It is not clearly documented whether corresponding breeding attempts were also made in Canada before.
How high-maintenance is the Aussiedor?
Regardless of whether the coat is short, medium-length or wavy, it is water-repellent. So even the muddiest dog, once the coat has dried, is quickly clean again after several strokes over it with a medium-hard brush. In addition, it sheds very little.
