What is the animal’s habitat?
German shepherd
A German shepherd’s habitat would be an open outdoor field that is big and wide enough for the dog to run and play freely. It has to be a large area because this type of dog loves playing. But it would always be a good idea to keep that area fenced so that no wild animals can enter the area. A large area has to be a must so that the dog won’t be bored and create bad behaviours. Finally, it definitely needs to have a secure fence so that wandering and moving things from outside don’t catch the dog’s attention.
Australian shepherd
The Australian shepherd needs a spacious fenced yard similar to the German shepherd; it is also well suited to a country living home. It needs to have such a large area so it can be active and do fitness-related activities; it might become destructive or show other unhealthy behaviors if the dog is left unattended. It would be hard to make the dog live in an apartment because it would be too small. This dog is rather active and energetic. It is a must that this dog has to live outside with fresh air and a large fenced space with no overwhelming temperatures.
Physical characteristics
German shepherd
German shepherds have big, bushy tails and soft, long, pointed ears. They also have black, snout-shaped noses. German shepherds also have a medium-length coat. The coat is straight and dense and can sometimes be wavy. They also have a tan/black/red/black-coloured “saddle” along their back.
Australian shepherd
Australian shepherds are a medium-sized breed. The height of females ranges between 45.5 – 53.5cm and for males, it ranges between 51 – 58.5cm. The Australian shepherd has a double coat like a German shepherd. This dog also has a naturally bobbed tail and almond-shaped eyes, which could be the colour brown, blue, amber, or any combination.
Natural selection
German shepherd
German shepherds have evolved over time, and some of the changes are in their physical appearance, breed standard, and what are considered to be desirable breed traits. Today, all the German shepherds are big and tall. The male German shepherd’s height is 60-65cm and the female’s height is 55-60cm. But back then in the 20th century , German shepherds were WAY smaller; both females and males were only 25kg! The average weight across the breed as a whole was a lot lower too; 25kg is 15kg smaller than right now.
Australian shepherd
The Australian shepherds were being transported to California during the California Gold Rush, so they had to adapt to their new environment by herding sheep and cattle on ranches across the Western United States. But also, the MDR1 mutation spread to the dogs so the dogs with the MDR1 mutation couldn’t herd sheep anymore.
About the Author
Hi, I am Kate a 4th grader who loves traveling with my family, drawing, and singing. It is truly amazing to be a part of this fantastic program I love it! Anyway, I am the firstborn, and I have two younger siblings, I also LOVE to make snacks for my mum to eat and I also LOVE to watch my dad show me his kata (a karate thing) that always makes me want to practice MINE!! Also, my favorite color is yellow, and I like dogs my favorite breed is a German Shepard no offense to any cat lovers out there… I am also a REALLY kind person who loves the city and shopping with my family, and I like wearing dresses a lot because they are so comfortable. I also make books and read in my spare time for FUN! (I hate running for a special event)