Many often dream of having dogs as kids, but the dream rarely materializes for some. However, with the proper guidance, it is never too late to get the pup you have always wanted, allowing you to care for your canine friend with utmost dedication. Becoming a pet parent begins with choosing the right dog for you.
Australian Shepherds are a type of dog that many people know very little about but would love to own. You may have often wondered about Australian Shepherd ears, too, and your curiosity peaked at the many exciting characteristics the dog possesses.
The following points discuss some basics about this beautiful breed and its temperament so that you can make an informed decision about whether this is the right one for you.
Their eyes are the first thing you notice
Often, the first thing that people notice about the breed is their captivating eyes. They are medium-sized and almond-shaped, with the iris blue or brown in most cases. Many dogs have two different colored eyes, one having a blue or brown iris and the other being green, yellow, orange, or red.
Some pet parents have dogs with shades of more than one color in just one eye (otherwise known as heterochromia), making them more appealing and unique.
Average lifespan
An Australian Shepherd can live between ten and fifteen years, depending on genetics and whether they have severe health conditions. Health conditions such as hip dysplasia or bloating, wherein the stomach twists and causes food to get stuck in the esophagus, can shorten the lifespan of this breed.
It is crucial to develop a daily routine incorporating a healthy diet and adequate exercise to care for the dog. Regular veterinarian visits can help you keep a watch on your pet’s health, enabling you to catch signs of any illnesses early on and ensure timely intervention.
They often have different types of ears
Traditionally, a purebred has medium-sized triangular ears that typically break forward and are set a little to the side, otherwise called button ears. Generally, Australian Shepherd ears begin to change shape when the pup is as young as twelve weeks old, and you won’t know the final form until the canine has stopped teething. However, even a pure breed can often have differently shaped ears.
Rose ears point up slightly, held back naturally to level with the canine’s skull. Prick ears, also called erect ears, are straight out with no curve at the tip. Lastly, semi-erect ones are ears that are much like prick ears but with a slight bent.
Some people glue the ears for better placement, especially if they are raising show dogs. While no studies suggest this procedure hurts the canines, it could be irritating or uncomfortable for them for a while. Nevertheless, many prefer not to tape their dogs’ ears as the shape does not affect their health.
Learn more about dogs before you get one
Many online resources can be useful if you want to learn more about the brilliant and obedient Australian Shepherd breed. Some reputable websites provide information about various breeds and how to choose the right one for you.
Also, they offer veterinarian-approved advice on diet, exercise, training, toys, and other aspects of owning a dog. Ultimately, their extensive guides and legitimate information can help you become a fantastic pet parent, making you capable of caring for more than one dog.
