Aussietare

The Aussietare is a cross between the Australian Shepherd and the Bull Terrier. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Aussietare. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.

Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd is a medium-sized, well-balanced herding dog that combines strength, agility, and endurance in an athletic package. Males typically stand 20 to 23 inches at the shoulder and weigh 50 to 65 pounds, while females measure 18 to 21 inches and weigh 40 to 55 pounds. The breed is slightly longer than tall, with the body length from breastbone to rear of thigh slightly exceeding the height at the withers. Australian Shepherds possess solid, moderate bone structure and muscular development without appearing coarse or heavy, reflecting their need for agility and stamina in demanding herding work. The overall impression is of a lithe, athletic dog capable of quick directional changes and sustained activity. The breed's coat is of moderate length and coarseness, with a straight to wavy texture that forms a weather-resistant outer layer over a dense undercoat. Males typically display a more pronounced mane and frill around the neck than females. The coat is shorter on the head, front of legs, and ears, while moderate feathering appears on the backs of the forelegs and breeches on the hindquarters. Australian Shepherds are famous for their striking and varied coat colors, which include blue merle, red merle, solid black, and solid red, all with or without white markings and copper points. No two Australian Shepherds share exactly the same coat pattern, making each dog uniquely distinctive. The head is clean-cut and in proportion to the body, with a moderate stop between a flat to slightly domed skull and a tapered muzzle of equal length. The eyes are one of the breed's most captivating features, appearing in brown, blue, amber, or any combination including heterochromia and marbled patterns. The ears are triangular and set high on the head, breaking forward or to the side when alert. Australian Shepherds may have a naturally bobbed tail or a full tail that is typically docked in countries where the practice is permitted, though natural bobtails occur in the breed.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Australian Shepherds possess a strong herding instinct that may manifest in attempts to herd children, other pets, or even adults in the household. This natural behavior requires appropriate outlets and management, particularly in families with young children. The breed has substantial exercise requirements and is best suited to active households that can provide daily vigorous activity and mental stimulation. Aussies are typically good-natured and playful, maintaining their energetic disposition well into adulthood. While protective of their families, properly socialized Australian Shepherds should not display aggression or excessive shyness.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Autoimmune thyroiditis, which leads to hypothyroidism, occurs at elevated rates in Australian Shepherds and can cause weight gain, lethargy, skin problems, and other symptoms. Epilepsy is another condition seen in the breed, with affected dogs experiencing seizures that typically begin between one and four years of age. Some Australian Shepherds may develop allergies to environmental triggers or food ingredients, manifesting as skin irritation or digestive issues. Cancer, including hemangiosarcoma and lymphoma, can occur as the dog ages. Purchasing from breeders who perform comprehensive health testing on their breeding dogs significantly reduces the risk of these hereditary conditions.
Learn More About The Australian Shepherd

Bull Terrier

Bull Terrier

The Bull Terrier is a strongly built, muscular, and well-balanced dog with a distinctive appearance unlike any other breed. The breed standard does not specify height or weight limits, but most Bull Terriers stand between 21 and 22 inches at the shoulder, with males typically weighing 50 to 70 pounds and females weighing 45 to 55 pounds. The body is full and round with a short, strong back and a deep brisket that extends to the elbows. The breed possesses substantial bone and muscle mass, presenting an impression of power and determination while maintaining athletic agility. The shoulders are strong and muscular without appearing loaded, and the legs are straight with strong, well-developed hindquarters. The most distinguishing feature of the Bull Terrier is its unique head shape, often described as egg-shaped when viewed from the front. The profile curves gently downward from the top of the skull to the tip of the nose in an unbroken arc, creating the characteristic Roman nose appearance. The skull between the ears is nearly flat, and the muzzle is deep and strong with well-developed underjaw. The eyes are another distinctive trait, being small, triangular in shape, and set obliquely, giving the breed an intelligent and determined expression. The ears are small, thin, and set close together, carried erect and pointing upward when alert. The Bull Terrier's coat is short, flat, and harsh to the touch with a glossy sheen, lying close to the body without any feathering or undercoat. The breed comes in two color varieties: white and colored. White Bull Terriers may have markings on the head only, while colored Bull Terriers include brindle, black brindle, red, fawn, and tricolor patterns. Brindle is preferred among the colored varieties. The tail is short, set low, and carried horizontally, tapering to a fine point. The overall appearance should convey strength, symmetry, and quality without any exaggeration.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament While Bull Terriers are generally excellent with children in their own family, showing remarkable patience and tolerance, their exuberant play style may be too boisterous for very young children. The breed can coexist peacefully with other pets when raised together and properly socialized, though some Bull Terriers may display same-sex aggression with other dogs. Bull Terriers require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related behaviors such as destructive chewing or excessive digging. The breed is not suited to being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation anxiety. With proper training, socialization, and exercise, the Bull Terrier makes a loyal, entertaining, and affectionate family companion.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Lethal acrodermatitis is a rare but serious genetic condition found exclusively in Bull Terriers, caused by a defect in zinc metabolism. Affected puppies display stunted growth, skin lesions, and immunodeficiency, and the condition is typically fatal. Patellar luxation, where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position, is another orthopedic concern that may require surgical intervention in severe cases. Bull Terriers are notably prone to skin allergies and can experience generalized allergic responses to insect bites, environmental allergens, or food ingredients. Regular health screening, purchasing from responsible breeders who test their breeding dogs, and maintaining routine veterinary care can help identify and manage these conditions.
Learn More About The Bull Terrier

Important to Remember

Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Aussietare may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Australian Shepherd and Bull Terrier to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.