As already mentioned, Aussies are one of the most intelligent breeds of dogs and their minds need stimulation.  They really enjoy the mental exercise that comes with learning new things.  Australian Shepards are extremely fast learners.  Some people report house training them within a few days!  They quickly pick up basic commands like sit, stay, shake, lay down, roll over, fetch, come, and more.  With a little work, they can learn to master even the most advanced commands and cool tricks.  The process of training is important in establishing a relationship between you and your pet.

Praise and positive reinforcement work really well with the Aussie.  Remember, they are eager to please.  And they will do anything for food.  I’ve heard of people using cereal ranging from Cheerios to Captain Crunch : )  They love it.

As I’ve mentioned in a previous post, if you do not allow channels for your Australian Shepard it will manifest itself in problem behaviors that include chewing, digging, climbing, jumping, and more.

Aussies are also notorious nippers and sometimes nipping can be a problem.  They don’t mean any harm though.  It’s natural for dogs to nip.  Dogs take in the world with their mouth.  Using their mouth is as important as us using our hands and eyes.  For Aussies, nipping is just a way to interact, communicate, explore, and be playful.  Sometimes, this playing can be too rough for humans, especially with kids, so Aussies need to be trained bite inhibition so they can know what is on and off limits.  For details on training check out the best dog training program.

This is the dog obedience training program that I always recommend.  It is without question, the most comprehensive course around.  The important thing is that it delivers outstanding results.  Aussies respond really well to it. Sit Stay Fetch also offers a FREE training course.

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The Aussie can be the absolute ideal dog.  You might be one of the lucky ones who already knows how beautiful, loyal, loving,  super intelligent, and full of energy the Australian Shepard is!  But if you’re considering getting one, you must keep reading because there are certain things you must know.

HIGHLY ENERGETIC

The bottom line is that Aussies require a lot of time and attention, but are arguably one of the most rewarding pets to own.  They are lively and athletic, filled with boundless energy that needs to be focused.  They need constant exercise and plenty of playtime or else they can become restless and bored.  If you neglect them, they will channel their energy into destructive behaviors.

With that in mind, Aussie Shepards  are great for active owners.  They are fun dogs that will love joining you on brisk walks, jogs, hikes, and will even run alongside of you if you’re biking.  For play, you can use fetch, tug of war, frisbee, and most any other game your mind can imagine.

It helps to give them a purpose and different jobs to do.  If you’re not on a farm setting, you can assign basic tasks like having them get the morning paper, pick up your kids socks and place them in the hamper, etc.  Use your imagination.

Australian Shepards are not apartment dogs!  So please, don’t get one if they will be constantly confined to small spaces.  But at the same time, they aren’t really outdoor dogs.  You can’t just leave them outside and forget about them.  It’s not healthy to leave them alone for long periods of time because they need your companionship.

NEED FOR AFFECTION

Aussies are truly one of the most loyal companions and devoted friends, and they will always be by your side.  They can be protective.  They love to follow you wherever you go and thoroughly enjoy taking rides in the car and keeping you company as you run you daily chores.  These dogs are extremely loving, affectionate, and very eager to please.  You can really develop an amazing bond with your Aussie.

DOMINANT NATURE / FIGHT TO BE THE PACK LEADER

Australian Shepards have a natural dominant nature and they will try to be the boss.  You really have to be aware of “pack roles” in the family dynamic.  Aussies are very strong-willed so you need to have a strong personality or they can run right over you.  If you’re having problems with your Aussie Shepard, check out Sit Stay Fetch.