If you're looking for an energetic family dog that will keep you on your toes, consider the Australian Shepherd. Today we'll learn more about this beautiful breed and clear up some confusion about their name in this edition of Pet Pointers.

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The Australian Shepherd is known as an agile, lively herding dog, and although still used to herd livestock they're commonly seen in agility rings and as family companions. Their name comes from their association with Basque Shepherds who came to America from Australia but the breed was likely developed between Spain and France in the Pyrenees Mountains.

These dogs need weekly brushing and lots of activity, and while most people know this going in, many are surrendered because people are unprepared for just how much attention and exercise an Aussie needs. Nancy Soergel is part of a network of rescuers, New Spirit 4 Aussie Rescue, who take in not only pure Aussies but Aussie mixes as well. She says the poor economy is also responsible for many family pets being given up.

Soergel said, "In today's economy, I think most of the animals run into situations where families either lose their homes or lose their jobs and have to move away and aren't able to take dogs with them. Or there is a situation of backyard breeders who can't sell the dogs in this type of economy and they just take them to the shelter and turn them in."

Aussies are known for their loyalty, intelligence and athleticism, but Soergel sees more behind those big brown and blue speckled eyes.

Soergel said, "They are so versatile and they're good family dogs. They're very velcro. They love to be with their people. And you can do just about anything you want with them."

If you think an Aussie is the right dog for you, do you own research and consider your lifestyle. Never choose a pet based on looks, choose them based on personality to find the perfect match for you. As always, consider adoption first when bringing a new pet into your family.