Backs of forelegs and britches are moderately feathered. There is a moderate mane and frill, more pronounced in dogs than in bitches. Non-typical coats are severe faults . The hairline of a white collar does not exceed the point of the withers at the skin. White on the head should not predominate, and the eyes must be fully surrounded by color and pigment.
Merles characteristically become darker with increasing age.
Disqualifications White body splashes, which means white on body between withers and tail, on sides between elbows and back of hindquarters in all colors. The Australian Shepherd has a smooth, free and easy gait. He exhibits great agility of movement with a well-balanced, ground covering stride. Fore and hind legs move straight and parallel with the center line of the body. The Australian Shepherd must be agile and able to change direction or alter gait instantly.