The Australian Retriever is a hybrid breed, a mix between the Australian Shepherd and the Golden Retriever. Known for their intelligence, agility, and friendly nature, they exhibit a combination of the herding instincts of the Australian Shepherd and the gentle demeanor of the Golden Retriever. They have a medium to long double coat, which is often wavy and water-resistant, and come in a variety of colors, including black, brown, and golden. Energetic and playful, they require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their role often includes companionship, therapy, and assistance work due to their trainability and sociable nature.

The Australian Retriever is not a recognized wild animal species but rather a hybrid dog breed developed by crossing a Golden Retriever with an Australian Shepherd. As such, it does not have a 'native region' in the wild. It is primarily found as a domestic pet in various parts of the world, especially in countries where both parent breeds are popular, such as the United States, Australia, and parts of Europe.

As a domesticated breed, the Australian Retriever typically inhabits human homes and environments. They require regular exercise and enjoy outdoor activities, making them well-suited to suburban or rural settings with access to open spaces such as parks or yards. The breed adapts well to various climates but requires adequate shelter and care in extreme weather conditions.

The ecological niche of the Australian Retriever is primarily as a companion animal. They often participate in activities such as agility training, obedience, and herding, reflecting the working backgrounds of their parent breeds. Their role is to provide companionship and assistance to humans rather than fulfill a specific ecological function in the wild.