Love Australian Shepherds? You’ll Be Obsessed With These 10 Aussie Mixes
Thinking about adopting a furry bestie? Find out why these mixes make the best pets.
Australian Shepherd mixes are commonly available for adoption through animal shelters and rescue groups. When matched with the right family, Aussie mixes are some of the best dogs around—fitting in beautifully with active individuals, couples, and families with kids.
Why Aussie mixes are good dogs
Aussie mixes are ideal for people who love dogs with enough energy and personality to join them on active adventures—like hiking, camping, and jogging. If you’re an outdoorsy type who enjoys movement and exploration, an Aussie mix might be your perfect match.
Although each Aussie mix is unique, you can often anticipate their appearance and temperament by learning about both parent breeds. All Aussie mixes share one common ancestor: the Australian Shepherd. Known for being friendly, steady, and exceptionally good with children, Aussies thrive in active households. Lively and athletic, they’re also highly intelligent and eager to please—traits rooted in their history as working herding dogs. They form deep bonds with their people and learn commands quickly.
Aussies are medium- to large-sized dogs, typically weighing between 40 and 65 pounds. Their straight or wavy, medium-length double coat is low-maintenance—no trimming or professional grooming required. As a bonus, they shed less than many assume, drool minimally, and stay remarkably clean with just occasional baths.
10 Aussie mixes you’ll love
What will you get with an Aussie mix? It depends—but it’s rarely a perfect 50-50 blend. Some pups closely resemble their Australian Shepherd parent in looks and behavior; others may strongly reflect their second breed. Knowing the traits of both parents helps set realistic expectations—but remember, every Aussie mix is wonderfully, uniquely themselves.
1. Aussiedoodle (Australian Shepherd × Poodle)
Aussiedoodles come in varied sizes depending on whether the Poodle parent is Miniature or Standard. While not guaranteed hypoallergenic, many inherit the Poodle’s low-shedding, curly coat—making them a better fit for allergy-sensitive homes. Others may have a wavier, straighter, or wiry coat. Energetic and highly intelligent, this mix responds eagerly to training—though some are slightly less intense than purebred Aussies.
- Size: 15–35 lbs (Mini) or 40–70 lbs (Standard)
- Cover: Curly, wavy, straight, or wiry
- Activity level: Medium to high
2. Texas Heeler (Australian Shepherd × Australian Cattle Dog)
This powerhouse pairing brings together two driven herding breeds. Expect a focused, high-energy dog that thrives when given purpose—whether on a working ranch, in agility trials, or during long daily hikes. Slightly smaller than a typical Aussie due to the Cattle Dog’s influence, this mix usually has a short-to-medium straight or wavy coat—and may shed more if the coat leans toward the Cattle Dog’s texture.
- Size: 35–50 lbs
- Cover: Straight or wavy
- Activity level: High
3. Border-Aussie (Australian Shepherd × Border Collie)
Two elite herders combine here—so prepare for brilliance and boundless energy. Border Collies rank among the most intelligent and intense breeds, and when crossed with the sharp, responsive Aussie, the result is a dog craving constant mental challenges and vigorous physical activity. Daily puzzle games, advanced obedience, and off-leash runs aren’t luxuries—they’re necessities.
- Size: 40–60 lbs
- Cover: Straight or wavy
- Activity level: High
4. Ausky (Australian Shepherd × Siberian Husky)
An Ausky blends endurance, athleticism, and striking good looks. Bred for stamina over long distances, Huskies lend this mix incredible drive and resilience—ideal for runners, skijorers, or avid trail explorers. Expect a medium-to-large dog with a thick double coat, expressive eyes, and a spirited, independent streak.
- Size: 35–60 lbs
- Cover: Straight or wavy (double coat)
- Activity level: High
5. Aussiedor (Australian Shepherd × Labrador Retriever)
Friendly, gentle, and deeply devoted, the Aussiedor inherits the best of both worlds: the Aussie’s intelligence and work ethic, plus the Lab’s easygoing warmth and kid-friendly nature. This mix is a natural fit for active families—and while energetic, it’s often satisfied with consistent walks, backyard play, and regular off-leash time. Coat length tends to be shorter, and shedding is common.
- Size: 40–80 lbs
- Cover: Straight or wavy
- Activity level: High
6. Aussie-Pit (Australian Shepherd × Pit Bull Terrier)
Both breeds are beloved for loyalty and spirit, making Aussie-Pits frequent finds in shelters nationwide. Physically diverse—ranging from lean and agile to stocky and muscular—this mix often balances the Aussie’s intensity with the Pit Bull’s steadier, affectionate demeanor. Exercise needs remain substantial, but the overall energy level may be slightly more manageable than other high-drive Aussie mixes.
- Size: 40–60 lbs
- Cover: Straight or wavy
- Activity level: Medium to high
7. Australian Retriever (Australian Shepherd × Golden Retriever)
Like the Aussiedor, this mix shines in family life—thanks to the Golden’s famously calm, empathetic nature. Goldens are eager learners and deeply bonded to their people, so training is typically smooth and joyful. While still active, some Australian Retrievers lean toward a gentler pace—making them adaptable to suburban living, provided daily mental and physical enrichment stays consistent.
- Size: 40–75 lbs
- Cover: Straight or wavy
- Activity level: Medium to high
8. Australian Catahoula (Australian Shepherd × Catahoula Leopard Dog)
Commonly seen across the Southeastern U.S., this dynamic mix fuses the Aussie’s herding instinct with the Catahoula’s strong hunting and tracking drive. Best suited for experienced owners who can provide structure and purpose—whether on a working farm, in search-and-rescue training, or in competitive sports like dock diving or scent work. Size and strength vary widely, with some individuals reaching up to 95 pounds and carrying bold, confident personalities.
- Size: 40–95 lbs
- Cover: Straight or wavy
- Activity level: High
9. Auggie (Australian Shepherd × Pembroke Welsh Corgi)
Two herding breeds with surprising synergy—both alert, agile, and quick to learn. The Auggie may inherit the Corgi’s signature short legs and naturally bobbed tail, resulting in a compact, sturdy frame with big-dog energy. Despite their smaller stature, they retain the Aussie’s intelligence and need for engagement—making them excellent companions for hikers, agility enthusiasts, and even therapy work.
- Size: 25–45 lbs
- Cover: Straight or wavy (often medium-length double coat)
- Activity level: High
10. Aussie-Border (Australian Shepherd × Boston Terrier)
This charming contrast combines the Aussie’s smarts and stamina with the Boston Terrier’s compact size and affectionate, comical personality. Often lighter on the exercise scale than full-breed Aussies, the Aussie-Border still enjoys daily walks, interactive games, and learning tricks. Their short, smooth coat is easy to maintain—and their expressive faces and loyal hearts make them standout companions for apartment dwellers and first-time dog owners alike.
- Size: 20–40 lbs
- Cover: Short and smooth
- Activity level: Medium
Adopting an Aussie mix
Many Aussie mixes find loving homes through FurPetVo’s network of trusted shelters and rescue partners at furpetvo.com. Before adopting, consider your lifestyle, home environment, and ability to meet the dog’s physical and mental needs. Most Aussie mixes flourish with consistency, positive reinforcement training, and plenty of daily engagement—whether that means a sunrise hike, a backyard agility course, or quiet time learning new commands together.
Commonly asked questions
Are Aussie mixes good with kids?
Yes—especially those with Labrador, Golden Retriever, or Corgi lineage. Supervision and early socialization remain essential for any dog-child relationship.
Do Aussie mixes require professional grooming?
Most do not. Regular brushing and occasional baths are usually sufficient—even for double-coated mixes like the Ausky or Australian Retriever.
How much exercise does an Aussie mix need?
It varies by mix—but plan for at least 60–90 minutes of active engagement daily. High-drive combinations (like Border-Aussie or Texas Heeler) often benefit from structured outlets such as obedience classes, nosework, or herding trials.
Where can I adopt a healthy, well-socialized Aussie mix?
Visit furpetvo.com to browse pre-vetted listings from ethical rescues and shelters nationwide—all committed to transparency, health screening, and lifelong support.
