How to Train an Australian Shepherd Dog

The Australian Shepherds can provide good companionship. You should lead an active lifestyle to appreciate this kind of breed. These animals are full of zest and very athletic and therefore can be a handful if one is not properly armed with a good dose of knowledge on how to train the Australian Shepherd. Read on to find out the basic information about this special breed.

 

Quick Facts

The Australian Shepherd or Aussie as it is commonly called from the US was used to herding in ranches. Robustly built medium sized country dog, has triangular shaped ears that is slightly rounded at the tip. {Typical Aussie has a distinctive docked bobtail}. Aussie has a strong deep chest and stands squarely on all fours. Masculinity and femininity is evident in Australian Shepherds.

Height: Male 20-23 inches.) Bitches 18-21 inches (46-53cm)

Weight: Dogs 50-65 pounds (25-29 kg) Bitches 40-55 pounds (18-25 kg.)

Personality

Aussies are intelligent animals, hardworking and has an innate herding and guarding instincts. They can be easily trained and love performing tasks. They do not like sitting around for a long time. Aggressive and attentive, they can be a good guard dog. The animated quality of this animal makes them popular to kids. Though friendly and affectionate with their human family they are usually cautious around strangers. Constant activities will keep Aussies happy. Schedule a lot of activities like walking, running, jumping and playing around to keep their general well being in a balance.

Training

The great qualities that make these animals so endearing can also be damaging if they are not properly trained since this could result to undesirable behavior like nipping, chewing and digging. Obedience training for Australian Shepherds is highly recommended since they are quick learners and this will make them realize what are expected of them early on. One way of developing their social skills is to expose them to a variety of people and other animals for them to learn how to discern between a friend and a foe. Very loyal and affectionate with their masters, they suffer from separation anxieties so it is not advisable to leave them alone for a long period of time. Poorly socialized Aussied could become aggressive without proper training.

The life span of an Aussie is 12 years and up. Typical active Aussies may eat more than other dogs their size so be sure to give them hefty amount of quality food to keep up with their lifestyle. it is important for an owner to have time for this dog and be committed to nurture this special breed. With proper care and training of Australian Shepherds, a life with them will be enjoyable and rewarding.