Also called the German Aussie, the German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix mixes two herding breeds known for their intelligence and work ethic, offering dog lovers a loyal, energetic, and versatile companion. With lines from both the German Shepherd and the Australian Shepherd in its lineage, this mix is a perfect fit for an active family, a working environment, or anyone looking for a highly trainable and loyal companion.
We are going to go over the history, appearance, personality, exercise, health, and more of the German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix in order to give you a full picture of this unique dog breed.
German Shepherd Australian Shepherd Mix – At a glance
| Weight: | 50–80 pounds |
| Height: | 20–26 inches at the shoulder |
| Lifespan: | 10–14 years |
| Coat colours: | Black and Tan, Blue Merle pattern, tricolor look, with a combination of black, tan, and white, can have shades of sable or red merle, which include a blend of brown, copper, and cream. |
| Temperament: | Intelligent, loyal, protective, high energy lever, excellent watchdogs. |
| Suitable for: | Active lifestyle, suitable living space with room for them to play and exercise, experienced owner looking for responsible pet ownership, active families, and individuals. |
| Exercise: | 1–2 hours daily |
| Grooming: | Brush coat weekly, bathe only when necessary, nail trimming, and ear cleaning. |
| Cost: | $500–$1000 from a reputable dog breeder. $100–$300 from local shelter or rescue organization. |
Origins and History: German Shepherd Australian Shepherd Mix
German Shepherd Origins
The German Shepherd breed originated in Germany in the late 1800s, trained for herding and guarding. German Shepherds are known to be highly intelligent, loyal, and protective, making them popular not just as pets but also for working with humans in law enforcement, search and rescue, and the military.
Australian Shepherd Origins
The Australian Shepherd, despite its name, was mainly developed in the USA. The breed was developed and refined in the 19th century for herding livestock and ranch work in the American West. Australian Shepherds also breed for agility; they are also very intelligent and driven, which makes them prominent in dog sports and all the more reason that they excel at herding and also as active companions.
German Shepherd Australian Shepherd Mix: German Aussie
The German shepherd Australian shepherd mix has some of the best of both worlds. A hybrid that normally retains the intelligence, loyalty, and versatility to become anything from a family pet to a working dog But being a mix, each German Aussie will inherit different genetics from each parent and so will differ in appearance (to a degree) and temperament.
What Does the German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix Look Like?
The German Aussie, or German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix is a stunning dog, and, usually, a perfect mesh as far as the physical characteristics of each breed, medium to large size, muscular, and athletic. Here is a physical description of the different breeds:
Physical characteristics, size, and appearance
German Aussie male dog usually stand 20–26 inches at the shoulder, while German Aussie female dog are slightly smaller at around 20–24 inches, with males often being on the larger side of the spectrum. German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix typically weigh around 50–80 pounds but may vary based on genetics, gender, and nutrition. They have slender, sinewy bodies, optimized for mobility, power, and explosion. German Shepherds crossed with Australian Shepherds are frequently well built, inheriting the straight back and longer structure of the German shepherd as well as the more compact, balanced frame of the Australian shepherd.
Coat Type and Texture
The majority of German Aussies have a full double coat with a soft undercoat and a longer, stiffer outer coat. The coat protects them in all kinds of weather like their German shepherd and Australian shepherd ancestors. The length of their coat can be medium or long depending on the genetic traits inherited more from which parent breed. The coat can be somewhat wavy or mostly straight.
Coat Colours and Patterns
Due to the genetic diversity of each parent breed, German Aussies can have a variety of colors and designs in their coats.
Coat colour combos include:
A classic German shepherd coloration, black saddle across the back, tan on legs and face The merle pattern which is often seen in Australian shepherds can then come as gray, black and white mix pattern in German Aussies. Most German Aussies have that wonderful tricolor, with black, tan, and white. More rarely and possible are German Aussies with sable color or red merle which are a combination of brown, copper and cream.
Eyes
German Aussies are known for their expressive eyes, which can be:
- Brown: A common color inherited from both parent breeds.
- Blue: Australian Shepherd genes can introduce blue eyes, which add a striking look to these dogs.
- Heterochromia: Some German Aussies may inherit heterochromia, where each eye is a different color (e.g., one blue eye, one brown eye), adding to their unique appearance.
Ears and Tail
The ears of German Aussies can be a mix of either parent breed’s style. Some have the German Shepherd’s erect alerts, while others have Australian Shepherds’ semi-pricked or fully-floppy version. At times their ears may even be a cross between the two, erect with a slight fold on the end. Some German Australians have a naturally short tail depending on their Australian Shepherd heritage while others proudly wear a long, bushy tail.
General Expression
Their expression looks alert and intelligent and their bright eyes signify their sharp mind and inquisitive nature. They typically carry themselves with purpose, upright, balanced, slightly quick, prepared to work but also play.
This visually striking blend of its ingredients gives each German Aussie a unique appearance, but you can normally expect Marvels to be athletic, solid, and breathtaking, which suits their active, smart personality.
Life Expectancy
The German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix has a life span of 10–14 years with good care, which is average for a dog of this size. Their longevity can be influenced by factors such as nutrition, exercise, and regular veterinary care.
Temperament and Personality: German Shepherd Australian Shepherd Mix
The German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix is an intelligent, loyal, and protective dog. Since German Aussies may inherit their loyalty from their German Shepherd parent, many German Aussies will be immensely loyal to their family members. They can also have natural protective instincts, which means they make amazing watchdogs. Both parent breeds were working dogs, so this hybrid needs a lot of exercise and mental stimulation.
For this energetic mix, daily walks, playtime, and training sessions are vital. This breed is very intelligent and respond to training better than average so German Aussies are likely to inherit this same high level of intelligence and thus be responsive to training. All they need to flourish is a positive reinforcement to tell them what they are doing is right and a challenge to keep them mentally occupied. German Aussies have friendly personalities, but can be a little shy with strangers. Early socialization can result in well-adjusted adults, comfortable around new people and animals.
Exercise and Activity Needs: German Aussie
And the German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mixed breed is an active breed that needs a lot of exercise daily. And can become problematic in behavior, without the right type of stimulation. Strive to walk the dog for 1–2 hours each day — which are else:
- Walks & Runs: A balance of each to allow them to exercises.
- Dog sports: Things like agility, obedience, and herding help satisfy natural instincts.
- Mental Exercise: Puzzle toys, training games, and obedience exercises are great tools for providing mental stimulation.
Training a German Shepherd Australian Shepherd Mix
Yes, training a German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix is one of the most rewarding experiences, but it also needs you to have consistency, patience, and mental stimulation.
So here are a few key training tips:
- To prevent undesirable behaviours, socialization and obedience training should begin in puppyhood.
- This blend is very eager to please, and responds well to praise and treat, making it ideal for reward-based training.
- Include puzzle toys and some advanced training to stimulate the mind.
- They respond best to a confident leader, so be firm but gentle.
Health Concerns and Care: German Shepherd Australian Shepherd Mix
However, being a mix, the German Shepherd Australian Shepherd does naturally carries with it the risk of certain common health problems that both parent breeds can be genetically predisposed to. Other Forms of Preventative Health Care and Veterinary Visits Some general health issues include:
Hip dysplasia, a genetic joint disorder, occurs in both the German Shepherd and the Australian Shepherd. However, it is possible to help in part mitigate this risk with a healthy body weight, as well as routine veterinary exams. Like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia is common to large breeds.
German Aussies may be prone to eye issues (eg cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), both of which can cause vision loss). It is an inherited neurological disorder that is common in Australian Shepherd, so German Aussies can inherit it.
DM, or degenerative myelopathy, is a condition that affects the spinal cord and is much more common in German Shepherds.
Health Management Tips: German Shepherd Australian Shepherd Mix
Regular Vet Visits: Many conditions can be managed or even prevented if caught early through routine veterinary care.
Genetic Testing: Parental preconception genetic screening can also lead to a lower rate of transmitting specific diseases.
Diet and Exercise: A balanced diet and regular exercise are key factors in keeping weight and mobility at a healthy level, minimising the risks of joint problems and obesity associated complications.
Grooming
To minimize shedding and maintain its coats health, its double coat needs to be brushed weekly. If they are shedding (which can happen during spring and fall) perodia are needed more trunk. Avoid bathing the dog unless it is absolutely necessary, as too much bathing can wash away the natural oils from the coat. Trimming the nails regularly and cleaning the ears are important to avoid infections and discomforts.
Is The German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix Friendly?
Yes, a German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix breed can be friendly but as it typically goes with any dog breed, friendliness is very much dependent on early socialisation, training and individual temperament. This mix consists of features that two loyal, clever breeds have in common to create an generally loving and devoted family dog. This is what you can generally expect when it comes to friendliness from a German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix.
When raised together, German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mixes may be great with kids. Rottweilers are often patient, watchful, and soft with younger family members. Due to their herding instincts they may attempt to “herd” small children (nudge, guide etc). If well-trained it should not be a problem.
They are friendly with other pets as well, especially when they are socialized young. Although German Aussies may exhibit a fun and playful, social behavior, their herding instincts may cause them to pursue smaller pets. With adequate introductions and socialization, they can be raised alongside your other pets as well, from cats to smaller pets.
How Much Does a German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix Puppy Cost?
Depending on these, and other factors — including the reputable dog breeder, the types of parents the mix puppy comes from, geographic location, and the health of the puppies — a German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix puppy can range from $500 to $1000.
Breeders that have quality practices will usually charge more due to the health testing and proper care during the breeding process. Investigate the prices – puppies of better pedigreeed parents or bred to a desired goal may be far more costly. Of course, prices are not set in stone from region to region or from city to city, they very much depend on the demand at the time and the cost of living in certain parts of the world.
Puppies that are included with health clearances, or those that have already received initial veterinary care, vaccinations, and microchipping, may cost more right off the bat. Aside from the cost of the actual German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix itself, you should also factor in other expenses in relation to the care of the dog.
Additional expenses: Owing a German Shepherd mixed with Australian Shepherd
- High-quality dog food suitable for active breeds.
- Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and potential health issues.
- Professional training classes or resources, especially important for this intelligent and energetic breed.
- Items such as collars, leashes, beds, toys, and grooming tools.
- Regular grooming sessions to maintain their coat and overall hygiene.
Where can I find a German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix to adopt or purchase?
It is often more affordable than going through a breeder, especially if you adopt from a local shelter or rescue organization. Adoption fees can range between $100 and $300, however this often includes vaccinations, spaying or neutering as well as a health check. This option will end up costing you less and giving a dog in need a home filled with love.
German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix puppies range in price from about $500 to $1,000 but just remember this is just the up-front cost of your new friend, the bulk of the cost is not in the puppy, but in keeping them healthy and happy for the rest of their long life. Whether you choose to buy a well-bred puppy from a reputable breeder or adopt from a rescue, both paths can result in a happy responsible pet ownership.
Is the German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix the Right Breed For You?
The German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix is a perfect pick for active, committed individual or families who can meet their exercise, training and grooming needs. They are highly capable, loyal and protective, melting your heart into being the perfect companion for the clever, the right owner. But if you want an easygoing pet, this is not one of those dog breeds you want.
The German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix is right for you if:
- You live an active lifestyle and enjoy outdoor activities.
- You have the time and patience for consistent training and mental enrichment.
- You’re looking for a loyal, protective companion that will form a close bond with you.
- You’re prepared for regular grooming to manage their shedding.
- You have a suitable living space with room for them to play and exercise.
If your energy meet these criteria, the German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix could be a wonderful pet to your family, offering years of loyal companionship and joy.
Conclusion
German Shepherd crossed with Australian Shepherd is a loyal, intelligent, and energetic hybrid that is suitable for active families and individuals, as well as anyone who wants a good working dog. They can be demanding, needing a great deal of exercise, mental activity, and brushing, but they are as rewarding to live with as they are to work with, and the border collie is a great favorite of dog lovers. Proper training, socializing, and care can make out of the German Aussie a great companion for life.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Yes, German Aussies are loyal, protective, and can be excellent family pets, especially for active families that can meet their exercise needs.
They require at least 1-2 hours of exercise daily, including walks, playtime, and mental enrichment to stay happy and healthy.
Yes, these dogs are intelligent and eager to learn, making them generally easy to train with positive reinforcement methods.
With proper care, they can live between 10-14 years.
Yes, they tend to shed moderately year-round, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes. Regular brushing helps manage this.
Refrences and sources:
- https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/australian-shepherd-history/
- https://dogacademy.org/breeds/australian-german-shepherd
- https://wagwalking.com/breed/german-australian-shepherd
- https://www.dogster.com/dog-breeds/german-australian-shepherd
- https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-difference-between-a-German-Shepherd-an-Alsatian-and-an-Aussie-Shepherd-mix
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_Shepherd
- Image credits, WoofWoofTV, logantheshepherd