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Australian Retriever Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Australian Retriever so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Designer Dogs
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Australian Retriever dog profile picture
OriginUnited States flagUnited States Scotland flagScotland
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Cross Breed Australian Shepherd and Golden Retriever mix

Australian Retriever Size and Weight

Size
Is an Australian Retriever small, medium or large dog?

How big do Australian Retriever get?

What is the average size of an Australian Retriever?

Large
Weight
How much does the Australian Retriever weigh? How much should an Australian Retriever weight? What is the normal weight of an Australian Retriever? How much does a full-grown Australian Retriever weight?
Male: 50-65 pounds (25-29 kg), Female: 40-55 pounds (18-25 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of an Australian Retriever?
Male: 57.5 pounds (27 kg), Female: 47.5 pounds (21.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Australian Retriever? Australian Retriever height:
Male: 20-23 inches (52-58cm), Female: 18-21 inches (46–53 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of an Australian Retriever?
Male: 21.5 inches (55 cm), Female: 19.5 inches (46–53 cm)

Australian Retriever Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Australian Retriever puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of an Australian Retriever in the United States? How much money is an Australian Retriever?

Where to buy an Australian Retriever with a good pedigree?

$600-$800
If you choose to purchase the Australian Retriever, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Australian Retriever for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Australian Retriever gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Australian Retriever? How many Australian Retriever are there in the world?
Very frequent: The Australian Retriever is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision.

Australian Retriever Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Australian Retriever? Is the Australian Retriever breed dumb or smart?
Outstanding: Australian Retriever is one of the brightest dog breeds. They desire to learn tricks and commands often. The limit is your creativity. They understand and memorize new commands in fewer than 5 repetitions. This breed obeys the first command 95% of the time or better.

The Australian Retriever is one of the best breeds in the dog intelligence ranking.

Trainability
Are Australian Retriever dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train an Australian Retriever?
Australian Retriever dogs are very easy to train. They easily find out the association between commands and actions.
Watchdog Ability
Is Australian Retriever good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Australian Retriever dogs are good watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're consistent in their effort. Good vocal cords and a sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're territorial and protective about their property, so the Australian Retriever dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Australian Retriever dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Australian Retriever dogs strongly protect their territory. This breed is a complete security guard, so you don't have to be afraid in case of danger.

Australian Retriever Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Australian Retriever have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
ActiveLovingProtectiveIntelligentConfidentFriendlyAffectionateReliableKindGood-naturedTrustworthy
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Australian Retriever sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Australian Retriever dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is an Australian Retriever a good family dog?
High: Australian Retriever dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Australian Retriever need? Australian Retriever social needs:
Australian Retriever dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Australian Retriever to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Australian Retriever roam?
Australian Retriever dogs tend to escape less than other breeds. They have low to average wanderlust potential. Exploring the world is not the best activity they can imagine.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Australian Retriever have high prey drive?
Australian Retriever dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. Cats or any other small animals might be in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Australian Retriever dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Australian Retriever Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Australian Retriever is a highly playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Australian Retriever dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Australian Retriever bark?
Low to Average: The Australian Retriever rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Australian Retriever good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have an Australian Retriever in an apartment?
It is not the best choice if you want to keep them indoors, however, with careful exercise and several walks a day, they will tolerate the indoor environment, so it is possible to keep Australian Retriever indoors.

Australian Retriever Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Australian Retriever dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can an Australian Retriever be left alone? How long can you leave an Australian Retriever alone?
Australian Retriever dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

Australian Retriever Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Australian Retriever has a hard bite? What is the bite force of an Australian Retriever? How much bite force does an Australian Retriever have? How strong is an Australian Retriever bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Australian Retriever bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Australian Retriever measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of an Australian Retriever is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Australian Retriever bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Australian Retriever bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train an Australian Retriever puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Australian Retriever, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Australian Retriever bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, an Australian Retriever can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do Australian Retriever bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Australian Retriever? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Australian Retriever? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Australian Retriever has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Australian Retriever do?
Australian Retriever dogs have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Australian Retriever dogs need to be taught a good attitude. We have compiled a list of Mouthy Dog Breeds.

Australian Retriever Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Australian Retriever dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Australian Retrievers are commonly healthy dogs. Vet costs aren't expensive with this breed.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Australian Retriever breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Australian Retriever breed? Most common health risks of Australian Retriever:
Cataracts Hip Dysplasia AllergiesCancerHypothyroidismProgressive retinal atrophy (PRA)Von Willebrand's DiseaseBloatEpilepsyDeafnessDrug SensitivityElbow DysplasiaDistichiasisCollie Eye AnomalyDetached RetinaNasal Solar DermatitisOsteochondrosis DissecansPersistent Pupillary MembranesHemangiosarcomaOsteosarcomaSubvalvular Aortic Stenosis
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Australian Retriever breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Australian Retriever see the vet?
Rare
The Australian Retriever should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year). If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Australian Retriever dogs live? How old can a Australian Retriever be? What is the age limit of the Australian Retriever? How many years can the oldest Australian Retriever live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of an Australian Retriever?

How long is the lifespan of an Australian Retriever?

10-12 years
The average lifespan of Australian Retriever: 11 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.

Australian Retriever Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Australian Retriever have? What is the activity level of the Australian Retriever?
Australian Retriever dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does an Australian Retriever need? How much exercise do Australian Retriever dogs require per day?

Do Australian Retriever dogs need a lot of exercises?

Australian Retriever dogs need a lot of exercises. Long walks should be on a daily schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Australian Retriever breed need?
Australian Retriever dogs don't need too much sleep. They are energetic and desire to live active life. If you think naps are overrated, this breed can be the best choice for you.

Australian Retriever Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does an Australian Retriever need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does an Australian Retriever breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Australian Retriever? How much food should I feed my Australian Retriever?
3 to 4 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Australian Retriever risk for obesity:
High: The Australian Retriever breed has a strong tendency to be overweight. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding. If you want to keep balance, increase the amount and frequency of your daily dog walk and play with the Australian Retriever more often.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Australian Retriever weight regularly.

Australian Retriever Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Australian Retriever have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
FeatheredSilkyWavyShinyStraight
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Australian Retriever coats?
Black Red Blue Golden MerleLight
Grooming
How to groom the Australian Retriever and how often? How often should I take my Australian Retriever to the groomer?
Average: The Australian Retriever requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Australian Retriever, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Shedding Level
How much do Australian Retriever dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Australian Retriever? Do Australian Retriever dogs shed a lot?
Australian Retriever dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Australian Retriever need a bath? How often should you give an Australian Retriever a bath? Can I bathe my Australian Retriever every day?
6-8 weeks
Rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

For example, short-haired dog breeds can go a very long time in between baths. These short-haired breeds shed regularly and that shedding works to naturally remove excess dirt and oil. So unless your weenie dog got into the garbage can, you can probably hold off on a bath for a while.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Australian Retriever breed hypoallergenic?
No
Australian Retriever dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The Australian Retriever has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Australian Retriever drool?
The Australian Retriever is an average drooler. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Australian Retriever Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Australian Retriever dogs get along with other pets? Are Australian Retriever dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Australian Retriever dogs are usually friendly towards other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Australian Retriever temperament with other people:
Australian Retriever dogs are stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are Australian Retriever dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Australian Retriever temperament with children:
Australian Retriever dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Australian Retriever dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Australian Retriever breed live with a cat?
Australian Retriever dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Australian Retriever good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Australian Retriever dogs get along with other dogs?
Australian Retriever dogs are dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Australian Retriever can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Australian Retriever breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Australian Retriever breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Australian Retriever dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Australian Retriever dogs good office canines? Do Australian Retriever dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Australian Retriever is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Australian Retriever dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Australian Retriever temperament with senior people? Are Australian Retriever dogs good for elderly owners?
Australian Retrievers are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

Australian Retriever As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Australian Retriever be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Yes

This breed makes good as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Australian Retriever breed is a good choice for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Australian Retriever be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Australian Retriever be an emotional support animal?

Yes

This breed makes a perfect therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Australian Retriever breed is a good choice for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Australian Retriever be a sniffer dog?

Yes

After proper training, they can excel at this kind of work. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Australian Retriever breed is a good choice for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Australian Retriever be a search and rescue dog?

Yes

This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and in locating missing people.

The Australian Retriever breed is a good choice for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Australian Retriever be a boat dog?

Not really

Australian Retriever breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Yes

Australian Retriever breed usually likes being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, as a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Australian Retriever be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Australian Retriever is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Australian Retriever dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Australian Retriever Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is an Australian Retriever pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Australian Retriever breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Australian Retriever: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Australian Retriever have in a litter? How many puppies can the Australian Retriever breed have for the first time? How many puppies does an Australian Retriever have? How many puppies can an Australian Retriever give birth to?
6-9 puppies, average 7

Australian Retriever Recognition

AKC Group
Is Australian Retriever recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Australian Retriever recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Not recognized by FCI.

Australian Retriever Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligent Rank: Outstanding: Australian Retriever is one of the brightest dog breeds.
  • Trainability: Australian Retriever dogs are very easy to train.
  • Health Issues: Australian Retrievers are commonly healthy dogs.
  • Watchdog Ability: Australian Retriever dogs are good watchdogs.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: Australian Retriever dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
  • Adaptability: Australian Retriever dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Friendly: Australian Retriever dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
  • Cat Friendly: Australian Retriever dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Australian Retriever dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Australian Retrievers are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Australian Retriever dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Service Dog: This breed makes good as a service dog.
  • Therapy Dog: This breed makes a perfect therapy dog.
  • Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog: After proper training, they can excel at this kind of work.
  • Search and Rescue Dog (SAR): This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog.
Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: Australian Retriever dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: High: The Australian Retriever breed has a strong tendency to be overweight.
  • Mouthiness: Australian Retriever dogs have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: Australian Retriever dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
  • Office Friendly: Australian Retriever is not the best dog breed for office environment.

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