Australian Shepherd Information
Australian Shepherds, who are known to most of the general public for their potential for herding sheep and cattle, are very down to earth and easy to teach. Due to their inherent breeding traits as a shepherd, including a well-developed protective drive, Australians make wonderful watchdogs. If they suspect danger they will certainly bark, but they are not wacky and noisy dogs. They are generally loyal, playful and affectionate dogs who love to cuddle and be wonderful companions.
Australian Shepherds make great family pets, as long as the family has plenty of time for them. The Australian Shepherd can get bored if left alone for a long time. They will chew on just about anything if fidgety, and they are notorious hole diggers and escape artists. An Australian who gets a lot of exercise will have very few of these problems. They really need a lot of vigorous exercise. Australians can be exercised in a number of ways. Unrestricted running in a field like a dog park is ideal. Give your Australian a little work by carrying your backpack. You can also play catch games with a ball or a Frisbee, and / or take them on long runs. They like to go on outings like fishing or hunting trips. Australians also love being around you while you garden.
If you are interested in raising a dog that has so many needs, it would be best if you had a puppy. In this way, your Australian puppy can be well trained and will also be comfortable with the people he will be living with. It’s a good idea to give a new puppy his own area, such as a kennel or crate, when you bring him home. Give the dog something to keep busy with if he wakes up during the night, such as a toy and a blanket. It will ensure that you stay away from furniture and in your own area.
If you want to prevent your puppy from assuming the dominant role, you should start training him immediately.
Australian Shepherds generally have an extreme amount of energy and drive. With their extreme intelligence and eagerness to please, they are capable and excel at a variety of endeavors. They are used as search and rescue dogs, guide dogs for the blind, hearing dogs for the deaf, therapy dogs, drug detectors, and show dogs. Australians live to herd cattle and sheep on working ranches, but they are also very competitive in obedience, agility, and other performance disciplines. They are happiest when they have a job to do. If you have plenty of time and space for your dog, the Australian Shepherd can also make a fabulous family companion.