These plush toy Australian Shepherd dogs are very beautiful and made by Ganz Heritage Collection, Douglas Cuddle Toys, Bearington and Demdaco.

The plush toy Australian Shepherd stuffed animals shown above are a Ganz Heritage Collection Australian Shepherd (center), Bolt and Clanger (right) which are Australian Cattle Dogs, made by Douglas Cuddle Toys. Next to Bolt is Sinclair the Australian Shepherd by Douglas. In the back at left is Maizie from Douglas. Lower left is Hogan the Bearington Australian Shepherd. Far left is a little Demdaco Australian Shepherd. Check the Jeannie's Cottage Gift Shop to see if there are any Australian Shepherds in stock. They also have a large collection of toy stuffed animals of other breeds.

The Australian Shepherd is a medium size dog, about 20 inches high and weighing about 40 pounds. It has a large head, pendent ears and a semierect tail. The eyes are almost always blue. The coat is thick and the colors black, red, red merle, blue merle, or white with chestnut markings. It is double coated and the hair can be either wavy or straight. The hair is medium length. Minimal grooming is required.

It is believed the Australian Shepherds' origins come from Spain. Basque herdsmen settled in Australia to raise sheep. The Australian Shepherd was developed by crossing Australian and New Zealand sheepdogs. It was brought to California in the mid 1800's.

The dog is loyal, affectionate, courageous, playful, adaptable, with the stamina and agility to work and play all day. It is intelligent and clever and easily trained. It makes an excellent companion dog and is good with children. It needs exercise and would do best in a home with a fenced yard or area to run.

This sheepdog is able to herd almost any type of animal into a pen.

They have a life expectancy of from 12 to 15 years.