Aussalier

This is an extremely new crossbreed of dog, registered with the American Canine Hybrid Club in 2013 by a breeder in Spokane, WA. The Australian Shepherd that we know today was actually developed in the United States rather than in Australia, as the name would suggest. This breed was developed by cattle and sheep herders in the mid to late 19th century. Their early history is most likely from Basque shepherding dogs that traveled from Australia to America in the early 1800’s. These dogs, most likely Pyrenean Sheepdogs that had been crossed with a Collie type breed are believed to have been crossed with other hard working stock dogs in America in order to develop an agile and enduring herding animal. 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. Like standard sized Australian Shepherds, toy and miniature Australian Shepherds can sometimes be described as a little standoffish, so they mixed it with the gentle and affectionate Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a dog breed specifically developed as a lap and foot warmer. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was given its name as it was a great favorite of both King Charles I and King Charles II in the 1600’s and this dog remains a favorite, listed as the 19th most popular dog breed by the AKC. The Australian Shepherd is more popular still, listed as the 16th most popular. With this level of popularity, it's no surprise that the few reputable Aussalier breeders have long waiting lists.