I am so glad someone decided to post about Aussies. I have before but no one replied. I love Australian shepherds. My Aussie is turning a year old this month! I know quite a bit about them. They can be in a variety of colors including blue merle, red merle, black, liver, all with or without white flashings and tan markings. Average height is 19-22 inches at the shoulder. They are very hyperactive dogs. They are very people friendly but can sometimes be reserved around some strangers. They are very protective, but are excellent with children, and are even sometimes called the "nanny dog". Aussies are considered one of the smartest breeds of dogs. They have the herding capability of Border collies but aren't as intense, which can be a good thing at times, if you do not want your livestock bitten (not agressively) or scared. If you want to know anything else just post it here or e-mail me! If I don't know it I will find out.