Original Article: https://www.dogster.com/dog-breeds/aussalier

The Aussalier is a mixed breed, a cross between the Australian Shepherd and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. It’s a curious choice, given the disparate backgrounds of the two canines. The former is an all-American pup, despite its name. The latter cuddled up with the aristocracy across the pond. The Aussalier is a relatively new designer dog, bringing these traits together, which actually come together to create an adorable mix.

Breed Overview

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The Aussalier has a lot going for it. This dog is an affectionate animal that dotes on children and plays nice with other dogs. Both parent breeds are active pets. The Aussie is an energetic herder, while the Cavalier began life as a sporting dog. Their groups reflect their histories as part of the Herding Group and Toy Group, respectively.

A mixed-breed dog doesn’t guarantee an equal division of characteristics. However, there’s a lot to be said for a dog known as the Comforter Spaniel to be a part of this mix. The Cavalier is a sweetheart with an adorable face to match, and the Aussie is an enthusiastic, hard-working dog who’s always ready for the next job and eager to please. It’s a winning combination.

Aussalier Characteristics

Aussalier Puppies

The size difference between the two parent breeds is significant, with a weight range of 13–65 pounds. You can expect much variability in the puppies. However, this also raises a red flag. The good health of the mother and her offspring dictates that the larger Australian Shepherd should bear the puppies. Therefore, we strongly urge you to request to see the parents and littermates.

You may find the availability of an Aussalier puppy scarce. Both parent breeds are very popular as purebreds, coming at 12th and 14th on the American Kennel Club list of most popular dog breeds.¹ You’ll likely find that the parents are pet-quality dogs. That doesn’t detract from their suitability. However, you should research your purchase and feel free to ask questions. A reputable seller will welcome them.

Aussalier Breed Origin & History

The history of many mixed breeds is unclear without an official registry documenting them. That’s also the case for the Aussalier. Nonetheless, the parent breeds have interesting stories. The Australian Shepherd is a transplant from Australia through Spain and France, eventually landing in the United States. Its development makes it an all-American dog.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel’s story began in England as a favorite of the British nobility. This royal connection led to the development of the beloved English Toy Spaniel from selective breeding through the ages. The earlier dogs scarcely resembled what they had been centuries earlier. It would take a renaissance to restore the breed to its former glory.

Temperament & Intelligence of the Aussalier

Genetics plays a role in a dog’s temperament, so we can begin with the personalities of the parent breeds. The Australian Shepherd has many traits you’d expect to see in a herding dog. They are active and alert animals with a protective nature. On the other hand, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is more laid back and happy to snuggle with you on the sofa.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? 👪

The Aussalier makes an excellent family pet. They get along with children, although they may try to herd them. This dog isn’t nippy like some dogs, which probably comes from the Cavalier. You should supervise playtime with small children if you have a large pet. Early socialization is vital for ensuring this pup minds their canine manners around people.

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets? 🐶 😽 

The Aussalier can get along with other dogs if introduced early. You should consider puppy playtime or other options for your pet to meet other canids. The Aussie in this mixed breed has a strong prey drive. Therefore, we don’t recommend them in homes with cats or other small animals, as instinct can be a powerful force to overcome.

Things to Know When Owning an Aussalier

Other traits may vary, depending on the dominance of the characteristics your dog inherited. The Aussie in your pet may have an independent streak, which isn’t uncommon with working dogs. Their job requires problem-solving skills and intelligence. The Aussalier is best suited for experienced owners who can manage a dog with this temperament.

Food & Diet Requirements 🦴

A complete and balanced diet is the foundation for good health. Depending on their size, your dog may fall into either the small or medium class. The important thing is that your pet gets the proper nutrition for their life stage. Puppies need 22.5% protein and 8.5% fat to support their growth and development.² You’ll find this information on the product’s label in the guaranteed analysis section.

You should feed your puppy three to four times daily to ensure their blood sugar stays stable with enough calories to fuel their activity. We don’t recommend free feeding, especially at this life stage, though. Also, you can reduce mealtimes to twice daily once your pet reaches adulthood, and you should always have fresh, clean water available.

The Aussalier has a moderate tendency for obesity. Therefore, you should monitor your dog’s intake and body condition. You can adjust their diet as needed. Remember that the feeding instructions on the food’s label are only guidelines, so speak to your vet if you have any questions or concerns.

Exercise 🐕

The Aussalier is an active and playful dog. Walks provide an excellent opportunity for mental stimulation and socialization reinforcement. A social animal is less likely to be fearful than a pet that doesn’t meet new people or dogs. It will also allow you to keep your pooch’s weight in check. You can walk your dog twice daily to fulfill these physical and mental needs, and about an hour per day is ideal.

Training 🎾

The Aussie is an intelligent dog that is easy to train. It is one of the many desirable traits this dog has. Consistency and positive reinforcement are integral to success. The Cavalier in your Aussalier is a sensitive animal that won’t respond well to harsh treatment or punishment, so we recommend reserving treats as training aids to make them more effective.

Grooming ✂️

The ease of grooming depends on which coat type your Aussalier inherits—either the thick double coat of the Aussie or the silky hair of the Cavalier. Weekly brushing will ensure it stays mat-free. You should also bathe your pet occasionally to keep them looking their best. Be sure to clean their ears regularly and check their nails in case they need to be trimmed, too.

Health and Conditions ❤️

While the Aussie is generally healthy, the Cavalier has some issues. Reputable breeders will conduct the necessary pre-breeding health screenings to prevent passing on congenital and inherited problems. The main conditions involve joint and eye issues. If your pet has the shortened snout of a brachycephalic breed from their Cavalier genes, you must also be aware of the risk of respiratory problems.

The Aussie brings something else to the mix that you should know upfront concerning the merle color trait. It may not warrant concern if your Aussalier is a first-generation cross. The risk of other congenital issues increases if two merle-colored dogs are bred. It can heighten the chances of conditions that can affect your pet’s quality of life, including deafness. Luckily, a DNA test exists to screen the dogs.

Male vs. Female

The size differences between male and female Aussies are more pronounced than the Cavalier, which means it’s a genetic roulette with the Aussalier. But other than size, there aren’t too many other differences. While genetics does influence behavior, the environment and upbringing are the other main forces. Interestingly, some research suggests that females may be more social than males. However, it largely depends on how you raise your dog.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Aussalier

1. Artist Antonio Pisano Created a Painting of the Ancestor of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel in 1440

Pisano wasn’t the only artist captivated by this pup. Gainsborough, Van Dyck, and Rembrandt also made them subjects in their works.

2. The Australian Shepherd and Western-Style Riding Share a Common History

Western-style riding became popular after World War II. The Australian Shepherd found a welcome home on American ranches because of their versatility, meaning the two become synonymous.

3. A Contest Led to the Modern-Day Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The early paintings of this dog inspired American Roswell Eldridge to resurrect the breed as it was in the 1920s with a prize for the winning dogs. Ann’s Son won the contest in 1927, becoming the official standard.

Does the Aussalier Make a Good Pet?

The Aussalier undoubtedly comes from good stock with the dog’s parent breeds. Both have desirable traits a pet owner would want. However, the mixed breed has a few wild cards regarding size, temperament, and health. Learning as much as possible about the parents will prepare you to own a puppy. That’s just skimming the surface of questions of training and intelligence.

The Aussalier is a social animal. They do not tolerate being alone well, which leaves them vulnerable to separation anxiety. This dog’s activity level is another factor to consider. We don’t recommend this dog for individuals living alone who can’t devote the time and energy this pooch needs to thrive. This mixed breed must have an engaged owner who is willing and able to put in the time and effort.

Conclusion

The Aussalier is another designer dog selectively bred to bring each pup’s desirable traits. This pooch has much to offer with their playfulness, intelligence, and friendliness. They can make an excellent addition to an active household where someone is always around to give this pup love and attention. That’s where they’ll be happiest and enjoy a good quality of life.

Featured Image Credit: Eric Isselee, Shutterstock

Source: Dogster