Australian Shepherd Size Guide: How Big Do Australian Shepherds Get?
Full-grown Australian Shepherd standing outdoors beside its owner
One of the most common questions prospective owners ask is:
"How big do Australian Shepherds get?"
Australian Shepherds are generally considered a medium-sized breed, but their final size depends on several factors, including genetics, sex, nutrition, and overall health.
Knowing what to expect as your puppy grows can help you choose the right crate, bed, collar, and feeding plan while ensuring your puppy develops at a healthy pace.
In this guide, we'll cover Australian Shepherd height, weight, growth stages, differences between males and females, and tips for supporting healthy development.
Recommended Reading

How Big Do Australian Shepherds Get?

Australian Shepherds are classified as a medium-sized breed. While every dog is unique, most healthy adults fall within a typical height and weight range based on their sex and genetics.
Rather than focusing on achieving an exact number, owners should aim for a healthy body condition supported by proper nutrition, regular veterinary care, and appropriate exercise.
Healthy adult Australian Shepherd showing average breed size

Australian Shepherd Height

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard, adult Australian Shepherds typically measure:
Male
  • Approximately 20–23 inches (51–58 cm) at the shoulder.
Female
  • Approximately 18–21 inches (46–53 cm) at the shoulder.
Individual dogs may vary slightly while still being healthy.

Australian Shepherd Weight

Although weight varies by build and activity level, many healthy adults generally fall within these ranges:
Male
  • Around 50–65 pounds (23–29 kg)
Female
  • Around 40–55 pounds (18–25 kg)
Rather than focusing only on the scale, your veterinarian can help determine whether your dog is maintaining a healthy body condition.
Male and female Australian Shepherd showing typical size differences

Male vs. Female Australian Shepherd Size

Male Australian Shepherds are often slightly taller and heavier than females. Females may have a more refined build, while males can appear more robust.
These are general trends, and individual dogs can vary.
When choosing a puppy, temperament, health, and compatibility with your lifestyle are usually more important considerations than size alone.
➡️ Male vs Female Australian Shepherd (future article)

Australian Shepherd Puppy Growth Stages

Your puppy's growth will happen gradually during the first year.

8–12 Weeks

  • Rapid growth
  • Learning basic routines
  • Beginning socialization

3–6 Months

  • Increased height
  • Teething
  • More active play
  • Ongoing training

6–12 Months

  • Continued muscle development
  • Increased endurance
  • Personality becomes more established

12–18 Months

Many Australian Shepherds reach most of their adult height by around one year of age, while muscle and overall maturity may continue to develop afterward.
Growth rates vary between individual dogs.
➡️ First Week With an Australian Shepherd Puppy futre link
Australian Shepherd puppies showing different stages of growth

What Affects an Australian Shepherd's Size?

Several factors can influence adult size, including:
  • Genetics
  • Nutrition
  • Exercise
  • Overall health
  • Veterinary care
Providing a balanced diet, regular checkups, and age-appropriate exercise helps support healthy development.
➡️ Feeding an Australian Shepherd Puppy (future article)

Healthy Weight Tips

To help your Australian Shepherd maintain a healthy weight:
  • Feed a balanced diet recommended by your veterinarian or breeder.
  • Avoid overfeeding.
  • Provide daily exercise appropriate for your dog's age.
  • Monitor body condition regularly.
  • Schedule routine veterinary visits.
A healthy weight supports mobility, joint health, and overall well-being.
➡️ How Much Exercise Does an Australian Shepherd Need?(future article)
Australian Shepherd enjoying daily exercise with its owner

How We Help Our Puppies Grow

At Tri Color Tale Pups, we believe healthy growth begins with responsible breeding, proper nutrition, and early care.
Our puppies are raised in a clean, caring environment where they receive daily attention, age-appropriate socialization, and routine veterinary care before joining their new families. We also take time to observe each puppy's development and are always happy to answer questions about expected growth, feeding, and care after your puppy goes home.
Every puppy develops at its own pace, and we encourage new owners to work closely with their veterinarian to support healthy growth throughout each stage of life.

FAQ

How big do Australian Shepherds get?

When is an Australian Shepherd fully grown?

How much should an Australian Shepherd weigh?

Are male Australian Shepherds bigger than females?

How fast do Australian Shepherd puppies grow?

What affects an Australian Shepherd's size?

Can I predict how big my Australian Shepherd puppy will be?

Are Australian Shepherds considered medium-sized dogs?

Looking for an Australian Shepherd Puppy?

Browse our Available Australian Shepherd Puppies to see our current litters, or contact us if you'd like help choosing the right puppy for your family and lifestyle.

Related Australian Shepherd Resources

Contact Us
Name :
Tri color Tale Pups
Address: 4321 University Avenue, Apt 2B
Grand Forks, ND 58203
Phone Number: (701) 555-0148
Mail Us to: tricolortalepups@gmail.com
Opening Time: Mon-Sun: 08:30AM to 09:00PM

Copyright 2026©tricolotalepups. All Rights Reserved.