Australian Shepherd health: what owners should know

Australian Shepherds are known to be predisposed to hip and elbow dysplasia, several inherited eye conditions (including cataracts and collie eye anomaly), epilepsy and some autoimmune problems. Many also carry the MDR1 gene mutation, which makes them sensitive to certain common medications, so tell every vet that your dog is an Aussie and ask whether an MDR1 test makes sense.

Responsible breeders screen hips and elbows, have eyes examined by a veterinary ophthalmologist, and DNA test for MDR1 and several eye conditions. They also avoid merle-to-merle pairings. At home, keeping your dog lean and fit is the most useful thing you can do for its joints. Call your vet promptly if you see a seizure, sudden cloudiness in an eye, lameness lasting more than a day or two, or any drooling, stumbling or trembling after a new medication or parasite product.