The red tri Australian Shepherd is known for its beautiful coat colors and colorful spots that make it stand out from other breeds.
This is just one of the reasons red tri Aussies are so special – the rest will be uncovered throughout the article!
The Australian Shepherd dogs have been quite popular as pets in many US homes during the last century, although this breed was originally used for herding.
Ranchers were amazed by this breed at the beginning of the 1900s when Shepherds first came to California, but that didn’t help them get recognized by the American Kennel Club until the 1990s.
Now it’s our time to give recognition to these fiercely loyal friends and energetic canines that’ll never leave you bored!
The Origin Of The Australian Shepherd
This breed originates from the Pyrenees Mountains (between Spain and France), not from Australia. The Basque people are considered the first breeders of Aussies.
A great number of shepherds moved from Australia with their dogs, where Aussies continued evolving into the breed we know today.
It didn’t take long for Shepherds to become Californians and win the hearts of ranchers who were amazed by them and decided to name them “Australian Shepherds.”
However, even though all of this happened in the 1800s, the American Kennel Club waited until 1993 to acknowledge these energetic doggies as an official breed.
But, the Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA) recognized this breed before the AKC’s approval, which is why they’re considered the most important registry of this breed.
What Are The Main Types Of Australian Shepherds?
These family-friendly balls of fur are acknowledged by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in four main coat colors:
Black (solid black, black tri, black bi, and black and tan Australian Shepherds)
Red (solid red, red tri, red and white Aussies)
Red merle (red merle tri, red merle and white, and solid red merle Australian Shepherds)
Blue Merle (blue merle tri color, blue merle and white, blue merle and tan, and solid blue merle Aussies)
The AKC and United States Australian Shepherd Association approved these Australian Shepherd colors and patterns as the official types of Aussies.
Main Characteristics Of Red Tri Australian Shepherd
Red tri Aussies are beautiful and amazing animals, but they sure aren’t the tallest breed on the AKC’s list.
These loyal furry friends are popular for their colorful, wavy/straight coats.
Red tri Aussies are also characterized by:
• Multiple eye colors
• Triangular ears
• Naturally bobbed or docked tail
• Ruff (fluffy collar around the chest, shoulders, and neck)
Essentially, red tri Aussies aren’t much different from the Australian Shepherds in general, except for the unusual variation of colorful markings and red spots on their coats.
As you can already guess, the main color of this breed is red. But, do you know what the expression “tri” stands for?
It’s not difficult to guess that the word “tri” represents three colors that are dominant on the tricolors’ coats, and they are:
• Red
• Copper or golden
• White
Some people might be puzzled about the difference between red tricolors and red merle Aussies, especially if they both have almost the same colored coats.
The answer lies in genetics. The merle gene typically produces mottled spots on the red merle dog’s coat, while red tricolors have relatively solid colors on their coats.
Dominant genes always prevent recessive genes from being expressed. In this case, the black color gene is dominant and blocks the recessive red color gene, also known as “liver” – This results in black Aussies being more common than red ones.
Red merle Aussie puppies also have a unique red marble-like coloring with black and brown specks, which makes them even more adorable!
Another interesting thing about these adorable creatures is that they typically have brown eyes. However, there are some cases where some red tri canines have blue eyes (one or both).
Green eyes are more common among red merle dogs, but the green might also appear as a mixture of brown in red tri dogs.
Red Tri Australian Shepherd: Health
The Australian Shepherd breed is considered healthy in general, but of course, as with every other breed, there are certain risks of hereditary health issues, such as:
• Hypothyroidism
• Elbow and hip dysplasia
• Epilepsy
• Cancer
• Eyesight issues (including cataracts)
• Food allergies
• Deafness
This is the list of the most common health conditions that Australian Shepherd dogs suffer from. Not every dog develops these conditions, but it’s good to be aware of the possible health issues.
If you notice any symptoms related to these conditions, you should contact your vet.
Never buy a dog from a breeder who doesn’t have (or doesn’t want to show) you health clearance certificates.
These certificates are a guarantee that you’re buying a healthy canine from a reputable breeder.
No reputable breeder will breed a double merle Aussie. This is important information because tricolors with merle characteristics have a greater risk of sight or hearing impairments.
Remember, buying a healthy dog doesn’t mean your dog will never develop any of the conditions mentioned above.
This breed has a high risk of obesity, too, which is why they need to stay active as much as possible.
Australian Shepherds are herding dogs, and they were bred in high mountains, which means they don’t get tired easily.
One or two hours of exercise will be perfect for your pet’s overall health and keep him in great condition.
What About The Red Tri Aussies’ Diet?
A full-grown red tricolor needs to be fed according to its age and daily activities.
They have high energy levels, which is why Aussies require food high in protein.
Foods rich in fat, carbs, fiber, and protein can build lean muscles.
There are various types of food for working dogs available on the market that contain a high amount of protein. You can try something like Taste of the Wild, Solid Gold High Protein Dog Food, or other food that you consider fitting for your dog.
Consider your vet your best friend when it comes to the maintenance of your dog, including its diet.
It’s important to introduce a healthy and nutritious diet to your pet that provides it with enough nutrients and vitamins for its level of activity.
Grooming The Red Tri Australian Shepherd
Tricolors are known for their double coats that need to be regularly maintained. This includes brushing the coat regularly, which will prevent any unwanted fur around your house.
The outer part is generally considered a protective coat because it protects the inner part of the coat from water and dirt. These “protective hairs” are the ones that carry the tri and bicolor Aussies’ colors.
The undercoat is extremely soft and white. It keeps your pet warm, but it also sheds a lot, so don’t be surprised to find white hairs all over your carpets and furniture.
How often should I groom a red tricolor Aussie?
You should brush your doggo every 5 to 7 days to keep their temperature regulation and beautiful and shiny fur.
A pocket of air between the skin and the undercoat regulates temperature. If you don’t brush your dog regularly, the undercoat will become matted, and there’ll be no room for the air pocket, which will leave them without protection.
Lack of grooming might also cause skin issues, such as infections, which can seriously impact the overall health of your pet.
On the other hand, Aussies need to be brushed daily during the shedding period to avoid matting and remove the dead hair to make room for new hair.
Here are some grooming tips:
• Brush your tricolor from its head to its paws (including the tail, of course!) Always go in the same direction, never backward.
Make sure to brush the sides, legs, back, neck, and stomach.
• Tricolors generally don’t have as much fur as the Samoyed, for example, but they do have more colors! The Samoyed’s color is white, although there are three shades that are recognized by the American Kennel Club: biscuit, white and biscuit, and cream.
If you notice that your Aussie’s fur is thicker, it would be a good idea to fluff that beautiful coat with a “rake” (be careful not to poke them).
•After you complete these steps, you can use a bristle brush and pick up any dead hair that’s left on the coat’s surface.
Bathing
The majority of canines don’t require daily baths, but when it comes to the Aussie, it doesn’t need to be bathed for at least four to eight weeks (except if the coat gets dirty).
Frequent baths aren’t recommended because they can wash off the natural oils from their skin and cause skin issues.
These oils already keep your dog’s coat clean and shiny, so don’t wash them off without a strong reason.
The Weight, Height, And Life Expectancy Of A Red Aussie
Photo from: @alexxe_et_summer
Red tricolors share the same weight, height, and lifespan stats as the breed standard. Here are the vital stats of this unusual breed:
Weight
Female: 35–55lbs
Male: 44–70lbs
Height
Female: 18–21 inches
Male: 20–23 inches
The lifespan of red tri Aussies is from 13 to 15 years.
Australian Shepherd puppies are extremely energetic, which means you’ll both have to exercise a lot to prevent boredom. But, don’t give up because exercise might prolong your and your pet’s life.
Is There Anything Unique To The Red Tri Color Australian Shepherd’s Character?
There is no research or any other evidence that suggests that red tri Aussies differ from other strains of the breed.
Although genetic research is ongoing, experts see no reason to think that the coloring of Australian Shepherds influences their personalities in any way.
Here’s what every Aussie dog owner should know about their pet:
• They’re full of energy. These dogs were trained to work without ever feeling tired, so they have to be kept physically active if kept as house pets. Inactivity will negatively impact their health.
• Aussies have been traditionally known as working dogs that served for herding. Of course, you don’t need a herd of sheep to have an Aussie, but it’s good to keep them busy and give them some tasks to do to satisfy those herding instincts.
• This breed enjoys playing with its owner and creates a strong bond with them, which is why it’s so easy to train them.
• They’re very intelligent dogs, which is why they require mental and physical training. Your Australian Shepherd will be in seventh heaven if you let it interact with other people and exercise until it falls asleep.
• Although they’re known as guardians, Australian Shepherds are good-natured. Most people consider them perfect “farm dogs” because they behave well with other animals and children.
Is There Such A Thing As A Mini Aussie?
Photo from: @kwanwinklerphotographie
Yes, there is, and it’s adorable! A miniature Australian Shepherd, also known as the American Shepherd, will cost you anywhere from $2,300–$10,000. Different colors have different prices, but they all come with documents and certificates of health, lineage, and pedigree.
On the other hand, you might get a mini Aussie for $800, but from a disreputable breeder without any guarantee that it’s a purebred Aussie.
Mini red tricolors are just as smart as the full-size breed – the only difference is in their size.
Miniature Australian Shepherds love interacting with humans, and they make great family dogs. I’m sure your kids will love them as well!
However, don’t forget that they need just as much exercise as full-grown red tri Australian Shepherds. Just because they’re smaller doesn’t mean they don’t have the same amount of energy.
Are American Shepherds and mini Aussies the same?
The Australian Shepherd can be up to 10 inches taller than the American Shepherd, which is why American Shepherds are called Mini American Shepherds.
These mini versions are often compared to Mini Aussies, and I’ve got to admit there are almost no differences between them.
They share the same coat colors, too, including merle dogs with red and blue merle coats.
However, the American Stock Dog Registry recognizes the Miniature Australian Shepherd as a breed, while the American Kennel Club separates Aussies and mini versions, calling them the “Miniature American Shepherd,”
The Price Of A Red Tri Color Australian Shepherd
The average price for an Australian Shepherd puppy is somewhere between $600 and $800 from prominent breeders.
However, the price can go up to $3,000, depending on pedigree, coat colors, breeder reputation, location, gender, etc.
Tricolor puppies are very popular and quite rare, so you might expect to pay the maximum price, especially if the puppy comes from a leading breeder.
How To Find A Reputable Red Tri Australian Shepherd Breeder
Unfortunately, there are a great number of unethical breeders who are willing to sell an unhealthy canine as a “top deal” dog.
If you’re looking for a red tricolor in top health, it’s essential to find a reputable breeder who’ll be able to provide you with all information about the puppy.
A trustworthy breeder will provide you with certified information on the overall condition of the red tri Aussie puppy and its lineage history (possible size, temperament, and a detailed report on genetic health).
If you’re looking for a dog in perfect health, you might want to skip purchasing an Aussie with white markings on its ears, which might be a sign of deafness (due to the lack of pigment).
White ears are generally a characteristic of merle Aussies, but it may happen with tricolors as well. Make sure you gather enough information about the breed and the breeder from multiple sources, especially if you insist on a white-eared puppy.
Is The Aussiedoodle Related to The Australian Shepherd?
Photo from: @cutestpetsofaustralia
The Aussiedoodle is very much related to Aussies. It’s a mixed breed canine of the Australian Shepherd and the Poodle.
These doggies inherit only the best from their parents: cuteness, loyalty, and playfulness.
Aussiedoodles are very intelligent as well, and some even refer to them as the “Einstein breed.”
Mixed breeds can have a great variety of coat colors, depending on which breed has the more dominant gene, and hair types such as curly, straight, flat/unfurnished, and wavy. However, Aussiedoodles do shed quite a lot, just like Aussies.
The Poodle can come in eleven colors, including black, silver, silver beige, gray, brown, blue, cream, white, apricot, café au lait, and red poodles.
Can you even imagine the mixture of these beautiful colors with a red tri, red bi, or blue merle Australian Shepherd?
Looks aren’t everything, but these little pups will steal your heart as soon as you see them.
Wrap Up
Photo from: @salted.tags
Red Tri Australian Shepherds are indeed an energetic and human-friendly dog breed that’ll steal your heart in a matter of minutes!
They’re great family dogs and loyal pets. However, be prepared for a lot of exercising because this doggie never rests.
The Australian Shepherd’s transformation from a herding dog to a family-friendly pet is truly remarkable, although it’s no surprise because this breed always had a great sense of loyalty towards its owner.
The tricolors are beautiful on the inside and out, and I’m sure they’ll be just the right choice for your household.
Until next time!