When I was in the market for a family pet, I knew I wanted a dog that would fit right in with our high energy clan. So, I did my research to find the perfect addition to my family.
If you are seeking a loving, friendly, and loyal companion, then the Australian Shepard will be a wonderful addition to your family. Australian Shepherd’s are extremely smart and focused. They thrive on human companionship, for that, they can be the ideal family dog. When I decided to add a ‘furry’ friend to our household, I knew as soon as I laid eyes on the little guys multi-colored eyes and perky ears, he was the one for us!
So Is an Australian Shepherd Right for Your Family?
If you have an active lifestyle and are in need of an intelligent dog who wants nothing more than to work hard and please you, then an Australian Shepherd is the perfect dog breed for you. The Australian Shepherd will require some work, mental stimulation and obedience training to be a balanced and well-behaved dog. Yes, they are high energy, but not to the extent that you would seem to think. They are perceptive, protective, silly and emotional. They are devoted to their people.
When raised with children, they love kids and will quickly become playmates. They like to be as close to their family as possible: that might be as simple as sitting on a foot, leaning against a leg or wedging themselves on your lap to cuddle on the couch. That is probably to make you feel better about not being quite as smart as the Australian Shepard. They enjoy the company of their family and prefer to stick close to their human pack. They are born lovers, love to play, love their family…just LOVE!
An Australian Shepherd May be right for you if:
- You are looking for a medium-sized (30-70 pounds) and sturdy dog.
- Want an exceptionally intelligent dog that can do and learn almost anything.
- Love physical activity, including playing fetch, running or walking. They are great running buddies.
- Want a dog that will be loyal to the end, the definition of a true best friend
It’s important to know the dog’s background before purchasing a puppy.
You might think an Australian Shepard would need a home with a huge backyard, but they can adapt to any environment as long as their family gives them a couple hours of hearty exercise every day. That can be as simple as playing fetch, with a ball, up and down the set of stairs to your homes basement. Australian Shepherds are bred to work with people. The Aussie, as he is nicknamed, is happiest when he has a job to do. Keep him occupied by giving him tasks that he will love to do, such as bringing in the mail and newspaper.
Aussie Origins
Many people believe that the Australian Shepherd originates from Australia due to their name. In actuality, the breed was created to be a ranch or farm herding and working dog in the Old West. Aussie’s were also developed to be a companion and guardian of the family and the family’s possessions. If they do not have a flock to manage, they may transfer this behavior to children, or other pets. These dogs will help your kids practice their pitching skills for hours on end or ‘participate’ in a neighborhood soccer game. They can also make a super search and rescue dog, detection dog, hearing dog assistant dog or therapy dog.
The Australian Shepherd’s Personality
They are the quirkiest of dogs with the funniest personalities. Aussie’s are happy dogs. Every single Australian Shepherd has a different, individual personality but the majority are outgoing and very friendly. Regardless of your dog’s distinct personality, a few traits will remain consistent. These dogs are loyal, full of energy and flourish on human companionship.
Australian shepherds will alert bark to warn you if they see or hear something suspicious, and will protect their family and home with a surprisingly gentle fierceness. A select few can be shy and reserved, depending on how much energy they get to release on a daily basis.
If your pup gets bored, he will quickly create a duty of his own that could become annoying. Make sure to have plenty of toys or chew bones around to keep them occupied in their down time. Also give your Australian Shepherd lots of contact with friends, family and neighbors to help him polish his social skills.
5 reasons an Australian Shepard is the Best Dog Breed for you:
- They are generally super-smart, one of the smartest breeds
Australian shepherds have big brains. They are equipped with keen minds and sharp observation skills. They will fit right in with your rambunctious family.
- Aussies can be protective
Australian shepherds can stare into your soul with their amazing gaze. Their marbled eye coloring makes their stare even more interesting. Their observant behavior means they are keeping track of your every move and will always be by your side as your protector.
- Australian Shepherds are energetic
They are very active yet easy-going dogs that love to romp with children and they tend to get along well with other pets.
- The whole Family will love them
Australian shepherds have wonderful personalities and adapt well to families with children. They are not aggressive dogs and make ideal companions in an active household. They are devoted to their humans.
- Aussies have a wiggle butt
When they get excited or happy, they will shake their whole back end. Since their tails typically get docked as babies, they do not have a tail to wag. Therefore they will shake their whole butt like they would their tail. It is by far the cutest thing you will ever see!
If this dog fits your lifestyle, enjoy your Australian Shepherd.
How trainable are Australian Shepard’s? They are extremely intelligent and can be trained to do almost anything. While a firm hand is not necessary for this breed, positive reinforcement is. They can quickly learn new tricks and will love to be constantly rewarded with praise and/or a tiny treat. They will shine in simple obedience training and can also master more complex tricks.
Are Australian Shepard’s known to have Health issues? As with most purebred dogs, health issues are inherent to the breed. They are generally healthy dogs but they can develop certain health problems including eye problems, hip issues, and Epilepsy.