Australian Shepherd Health Guide
Athletic, intelligent herding dogs with a critical genetic issue—MDR1 drug sensitivity can make common medications deadly.
12-15
Years Lifespan
40-65
Pounds
~50%
MDR1 Affected
#12
AKC Popularity
Critical: MDR1 DNA Test is Essential
About 50% of Australian Shepherds have the MDR1 mutation, which can cause fatal reactions to common medications including some heartworm preventatives and Imodium. Get your Aussie DNA tested and always inform vets of their status before any treatment.
The Australian Shepherd Health Profile
Aussies are generally healthy, active dogs, but they have specific genetic concerns that require attention:
- MDR1 drug sensitivity: Common meds can be dangerous—testing is critical
- Eye problems: Multiple hereditary conditions require screening
- Epilepsy: Higher than average seizure disorder rates
- Hip dysplasia: Moderate rates—buy from tested parents
Major Health Conditions
1. MDR1 Drug Sensitivity
~50% of AussiesThe MDR1 gene mutation affects how drugs are processed in the brain. Dogs with this mutation can have severe neurological reactions—including death—from medications that are safe for other dogs.
Dangerous Medications for MDR1 Dogs:
- • Ivermectin (some heartworm preventatives)
- • Loperamide (Imodium—over the counter!)
- • Acepromazine (sedative)
- • Butorphanol (pain medication)
- • Some chemotherapy drugs
Reaction signs:
- • Disorientation, stumbling
- • Tremors
- • Excessive drooling
- • Blindness
- • Seizures, coma, death
What to do:
- • Get DNA test immediately
- • Inform ALL vets of status
- • Use MDR1-safe heartworm prevention
- • Never give Imodium
- • Keep test results on file
2. Eye Problems
Breed predisposedAussies are prone to multiple hereditary eye conditions. Annual eye exams and buying from eye-tested parents are important.
Common conditions:
- • Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)
- • Cataracts
- • Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- • Coloboma
- • Iris coloboma
Prevention:
- • Annual CAER eye exams
- • DNA testing available
- • Buy from tested parents
- • Early detection helps management
3. Epilepsy
Elevated riskAustralian Shepherds have higher than average rates of idiopathic epilepsy. Usually appears between 1-5 years and is manageable with medication.
Seizure signs:
- • Collapse, stiffening
- • Paddling legs
- • Loss of consciousness
- • Drooling, loss of bladder
- • Confusion afterward
Management:
- • Anti-seizure medications
- • Keep seizure diary
- • Regular blood monitoring
- • Note: Some meds need MDR1 consideration
4. Hip Dysplasia
~6% affectedModerate rates of hip dysplasia—important for an active breed. Buy from OFA-certified parents.
Signs:
- • Limping or stiffness
- • Difficulty rising
- • Reluctance to exercise
- • Bunny-hopping gait
Prevention:
- • Buy from OFA-tested parents
- • Maintain healthy weight
- • Appropriate exercise
- • Joint supplements
5. Autoimmune Diseases
Breed predisposedAussies have elevated rates of certain autoimmune conditions, including thyroid disease and allergies.
Conditions:
- • Hypothyroidism
- • Allergies (skin and food)
- • Autoimmune thyroiditis
- • Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia
Signs to watch:
- • Weight gain, lethargy
- • Skin problems, itching
- • Hair loss
- • Pale gums, weakness
Essential Care for Australian Shepherds
Priority Health Steps
Do this immediately if not done
CAER certification
Before any treatment
Avoid ivermectin-based products
Emergency Signs:
- Drug reaction (stumbling, tremors, drooling after medication)
- Seizure lasting more than 5 minutes
- Sudden vision loss
- Multiple seizures in a row
- Severe lethargy or collapse
Understand Your Aussie's Health Better
Upload your Australian Shepherd's bloodwork for instant, AI-powered explanations.
Upload Your Dog's Records FreeFrequently Asked Questions
What is the lifespan of an Australian Shepherd?
Aussies typically live 12-15 years. They're generally healthy dogs. Knowing MDR1 status and getting regular eye exams are key priorities.
What is MDR1 drug sensitivity?
About 50% of Aussies have the MDR1 mutation, causing potentially fatal reactions to common medications including some heartworm preventatives and Imodium. DNA testing is essential.
What medications are dangerous for MDR1 dogs?
Ivermectin (some heartworm preventatives), loperamide (Imodium), acepromazine, butorphanol, and certain chemo drugs. Always inform your vet of MDR1 status.
What eye problems do Aussies get?
Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), cataracts, PRA, and coloboma. Annual eye exams are recommended. DNA tests are available for some conditions.
Are Aussies prone to hip dysplasia?
About 6% have hip dysplasia. Buy from OFA-certified parents. Signs include limping and difficulty rising.
Do Aussies get epilepsy?
Yes, they have elevated epilepsy rates. Seizures typically appear at 1-5 years. It's manageable with medication—most dogs live normal lives.