The gene for the beautiful Australian Shepherd also carries a blind and deaf factor. Be sure to check the hearing on puppies. Some are prone to hip dysplasia. This breed is often sensitive to ivermectin, however the dosage for heartworm preventive is considered safe. Also IMHA (Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia). Some herding dogs carry a MDR1 gene which makes them sensitive to certain drugs that are sometimes okay to give another dog, but if tested positive for this gene can kill them. The Australian Shepherd life expectancy is usually about 12-15 years