The Australian Shepherd King Charles Cavalier Mix is a unique and lovable breed that can make a wonderful companion for active families or individuals. This mix typically inherits the intelligence and energy of the Australian Shepherd.
They are highly trainable, often excelling in agility and obedience training. With proper exercise and mental stimulation, they can thrive in a variety of living situations.
Their small to medium size, weighing between 10-20 pounds, makes them a great fit for apartment living or homes with small yards. They require moderate exercise, about 30 minutes of physical activity and playtime daily.
Their coat is often a combination of the Australian Shepherd's medium-length coat and the King Charles Cavalier's soft, silky coat, requiring regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
Discover more: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Yorkshire Terrier Mix
Breed History
The Aussalier breed has a relatively new history, being registered with the American Canine Hybrid Club in 2013.
The Australian Shepherd breed itself has a fascinating history, developed in the United States rather than in Australia.
Explore further: King Shepherd Dog Breed Profile
Its early history is believed to be from Basque shepherding dogs that traveled from Australia to America in the early 1800's.
These dogs were likely Pyrenean Sheepdogs crossed with a Collie-type breed, and were then crossed with other hardworking stock dogs in America.
The miniature and toy sizes of the Australian Shepherd were developed in the 1960's to create a smaller version of these energetic and versatile dogs.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was introduced to the mix to create a more affectionate and gentle companion, as the Australian Shepherd can sometimes be described as a little standoffish.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was a favorite of both King Charles I and King Charles II in the 1600's, earning it a special place in history.
For another approach, see: Ruby Short Hair Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Breed Maintenance
Bathing your Aussalier is typically done on an as needed basis. This means you won't need to bathe them excessively, but rather when they get dirty.
Their coats require regular brushing, ideally several times a week, to prevent tangles and matting. If your Aussalier inherits the silky coat of the Cavalier King Charles, you'll want to use conditioner to keep it shiny and silky.
The Aussalier's fur on their feet needs regular brushing and trimming, just like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
Expand your knowledge: Cavapoo vs King Charles Spaniel
Grooming Needs
The Aussalier's grooming needs are relatively low maintenance, but they do require regular brushing to prevent tangles and matting.
Bathing should be done on an as-needed basis, as over-bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils.
To keep their coat shiny and silky, use conditioner regularly, especially if it's more reminiscent of the Cavalier King Charles coat.
Brushing their fur several times a week is essential, and this will also help prevent matting and tangling.
If your Aussalier inherits the trait of growing fur on their feet, be sure to brush and trim this area regularly to keep it looking neat and tidy.
Exercise Requirements
Daily walks are essential for French Bulldogs, requiring at least 20-30 minutes of exercise per day.
Regular playtime is crucial for the physical and mental health of Boston Terriers, who need at least 30 minutes of playtime per day.
Greyhounds are sprinters, not marathon runners, and require only short bursts of exercise, about 15-30 minutes per day.
Exercise should be tailored to your dog's age, with puppies requiring shorter, more frequent exercise sessions, and seniors needing shorter, more gentle exercise.
Dachshunds are prone to back problems, so exercise should be low-impact and avoid excessive jumping or strenuous activities.
Owner Experiences
The Aussalier, a mix of Australian Shepherd and King Charles Cavalier, is a friendly and outgoing breed.
They have a strong herding instinct, which can sometimes manifest as a strong prey drive or a tendency to herd people and other animals.
Their intelligence and trainability make them a great breed for active owners who enjoy dog sports and activities.
However, their high energy levels require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
As for their interactions with other animals and people, Aussaliers are generally good with other pets and children, but as with any breed, socialization is key to ensuring they grow into well-adjusted adult dogs.
Their medical issues can be a concern, with some owners reporting eye problems and other health issues specific to their mixed breed heritage.
For another approach, see: Most Common Mixed Breed Dogs
Temperament & Intelligence
The Australian Shepherd King Charles Cavalier mix, also known as the Aussalier, is a relatively new breed that has only existed for less than 10 years.
The Cavalier King Charles is a loving and loyal lap dog, but it has a reputation for being lazy and a little too laid back.
With the Australian Shepherd's influence, the Aussalier has increased energy levels, making it better suited to a more active life.
The Australian Shepherd is a bigger, more energetic, and more confident breed, primarily used as a herding dog and sharing attributes with the collie.
This mix has proven to combine the best attributes of the two breeds, retaining the Cavalier's willingness to sit and relax but adopting the Shepherd's outgoing attitude.
The Aussalier is considered an excellent dog for families, should integrate well with existing pets, but will perform admirably in agility and other high-octane pursuits.
With proper training, the Aussalier is easy to train, and good with other animals and children, but has very high exercise demands.
Owning a Dog
Owning a dog can be a wonderful experience, but it's essential to know what to expect. The Aussalier, being a mix of Australian Shepherd and King Charles Cavalier, is considered easy to train.
They will thrive with enough physical and mental stimulation, making them an excellent companion and family dog. This means you'll need to provide regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.
Their temperament is generally good with other animals and people, but as with any dog, socialization is key to ensure they grow into confident and friendly adults.
Health and Nutrition
The Aussalier's health and nutrition needs are relatively straightforward.
You'll want to feed your Aussalier one cup of food a day, broken into two or more meals.
Choose a high-quality pet food to ensure your Aussalier gets the right mix of vitamins and nutrients.
Food & Diet
When it comes to feeding your Aussalier, remember that he's a smaller dog, so he doesn't need a lot of food.
One cup of food a day is a good starting point, and you can divide it into two or more meals to keep him satisfied.
Choose a high-quality pet food to ensure he gets the right mix of vitamins and nutrients.
Potential Health Issues
Poor nutrition can lead to chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes, which can significantly impact quality of life.
Eating a diet high in processed foods and sugar can lead to inflammation in the body, making you more susceptible to illnesses like the common cold and flu.
A diet lacking essential nutrients, such as vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, can impair immune function, making you more prone to infections.
Regular exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy weight and preventing conditions like obesity, which increases the risk of developing certain cancers.
Adequate hydration is crucial for flushing out toxins and maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails.
A diet rich in fiber can help regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation, which can lead to digestive issues like diverticulitis.
The American Heart Association recommends getting at least 10% of your daily calories from healthy fats, such as those found in nuts and avocados.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Aussie mixed with King Charles?
The Aussalier is a cross between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Australian Shepherd, blending the best traits of both breeds. This energetic and intelligent hybrid makes a wonderful small companion for those seeking a playful friend.
How much do aussaliers cost?
Our Aussalier puppies cost between $1,800 to $2,500, depending on color and gender. Learn more about our pricing and what makes our puppies truly special.
Do aussaliers shed?
Yes, Aussaliers shed, with a double coat that sheds its undercoat seasonally. Regular grooming can help manage their shedding.
How big does a Cavalier Mix get?
A Cavalier Mix typically grows to 15 inches tall and weighs around 30 pounds. They're a medium to large-sized breed, making them a great companion for active families.
How big do aussaliers get?
Aussaliers typically grow to 17-20 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 30-50 pounds, with size varying depending on their parent breeds.
Sources
- Aussalier | Dog Breed Facts and Information (wagwalking.com)
- 21 Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Mixes (With Pictures) (dogster.com)
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Mixes: 25 Adorable ... (caninejournal.com)
- separation anxiety (aspca.org)
- hip dysplasia (vcahospitals.com)
- Aussalier (Australian Shepherd & Cavalier King Charles ... (hepper.com)
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