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To those of us who love and own Australian Shepherds, they are wonderful dogs, but you will need to consider - Are they the right breed of dog for you? The answer to this question will vary from person to person. In considering any breed of dog it is good to think long and hard about what you want in a dog in general. Pondering this before you find a description of a breed, who you think you might be considering, is a good place to start, rather than finding a breed and deciding if its traits are right for you. Once you have decided what you would like in a dog, then it is time to consider the Aussie. To consider the Aussie we will look at his description from a paraphrased combination of the two main breed standards.
THE AUSSIE IS AN INTELLIGENT DOG WHO IS EASILY TRAINED, AND PERFORMS HIS DUTIES WITH GREAT ENTHUSIASM
An Aussie's intelligence is one of its greatest assets, but can also be its greatest liability. Its high intelligence makes him an incredibly easy dog to train, and makes him the versatile dog that is capable of herding livestock, navigating agility courses, acting as therapy dogs, doing search and rescue, and the many other tasks he may be called upon to do. On the other hand this intelligence can often cause Aussies to learn bad habits as quickly as good ones. They need lots of direction and input especially while growing up. Aussies are also prone to feeling that they are smarter than anyone else in their "pack", so if no one in their family takes charge, they will. Learning the way dogs think, and going to obedience classes so you can learn how to train an Aussie is a must. Remember obedience classes are for people, not for dogs! In combination with its intelligence comes its great enthusiasm for life. An Aussie is great fun to go out and do whatever activities you may have in mind, whether it be hiking, bicycling, playing frisbee, or just "smiling" at you when you come home.
THE AUSSIE IS A WORKING DOG WITH STRONG HERDING AND GUARDING INSTINCTS
An Aussie's herding and guarding instincts must also be considered. It is helpful to think of what these dogs were developed for many years ago. Picture a lone cowboy out on the western plains with his herd of cattle and many thousands of lonely acres. This person wanted a dog who could think on its own, and make decisions which could mean the difference between life or death. These dogs needed the ability to herd and to guard. They were extremely devoted to their master and not very open minded to anyone else intruding on their territory. Though the Aussies we have today are much softer and more open minded, these traits remain to some degree, and must be considered.
THE AUSSIE IS LOYAL AND A GREAT COMPANION
Aussies are extremely loyal and devoted. Most Aussies would give their lives for the people they love. They are a very people-focused breed and love to go with you everywhere. Some people love this and some people don't. If you are one of those people who don't like to be followed everywhere, you don't want an Aussie! Don't be surprised if you Aussie wants to be with you all the time and looks sad when he realizes you may not want him to go to the bathroom with you.
THE AUSSIE HAS THE STAMINA TO WORK ALL DAY, AND IS LITHE AND AGILE
Aussies are a very energetic breed of dog and do need lots of exercise. Activity levels do vary from line to line, so be sure to ask breeders what kind of activity level they like to live with, because you will be likely get the same from them. Though life with an Aussie may not be a 24-hour-a-day-3-ring-circus, please be aware that this is a very active breed who does need something to do. Putting an Aussie in a backyard, and ignoring it day after day is a bad idea. Their intelligence, and desire to do something will get them into trouble. Having a fenced yard of an acceptable height is also a necessary part of having an Aussie. Because they are a herding breed, they are very visually stimulated, and can become chasers of things that perhaps they should not chase! Don't be surprised at how agile they are, and the heights they can clear with a single bound.
THE AUSSIE IS RESERVED WITH STRANGERS, BUT SHOULD NOT BE SHY OR VICIOUS
As mentioned in our "cowboy scenario" Aussies really were and are a one person or one family dog. Because we live in a very different world, we do not necessarily want a dog who would prefer that no one else come around. To combat this tendency in Aussies it is extremely important to socialize Aussies a great deal while they are growing up. They need to go places, and be exposed to different people, and situations especially throughout their first year. Aussies are not the easiest breed to grow up and do need more socializing than the average dog does. If you are willing to make this investment, you will end up with a wonderful companion, who is still as devoted to you, but welcomes the world with his famous wiggly-butt. Please be aware as well that there are unpleasant Aussie temperaments out there who may be aggressive. Even if you are only looking for a pet, find a responsible breeder you can trust who does something with there dogs rather than just breed them.
SO IS THE AUSSIE FOR YOU...
This is a question you will now have to decide for you and your family. Talk with a responsible breeder about any further questions you might have about the breed. Find someone who cares about the breed and is not out to just sell a dog. A conscientious breeder will be honest enough to tell you if they think that perhaps the Aussie is not the best choice for you.
© 2000 Joni A. Johnson - Do not reprint or copy without permission.