The Australian Shepherd is a well-balanced dog of medium size and bone. He is attentive and animated, showing strength and stamina combined with unusual agility.  An identifying characteristic is his natural or docked bobtail. In each sex, masculinity or femininity is well defined.

The Australian Shepherd is intelligent, primarily a working dog of strong herding and guardian instincts. He is an exceptional companion. He is versatile and easily trained, performing his assigned tasks with great style and enthusiasm. He is reserved with strangers but does not exhibit shyness. Although the Australian Shepherd is an aggressive, authoritative worker, viciousness toward people or animals is intolerable.