The Australian Shepherd Personality and Character
The Australian Shepherd was
developed to
be a moderately sized, intelligent, all-purpose stock dog of great
character and endurance. Many Aussies today still do the work they were
bred for,
and even those that have never seen sheep or cattle usually have a
strong herding
instinct. This means that Aussies need fenced yards and leashes, as the
temptation to herd dogs, children, and traffic can simply overwhelm
them.
Being bred to work hard all
day means that most Aussies are not content to be couch
potatoes, although Aussies have individual characters and some are more
sedate and quiet-
natured than others. For the most part, however, these are high-energy
dogs who
need a purpose in their lives, a job as it were. Owners must be
committed to give their
dogs the time and attention they require through play and training, for
as
with any dog undirected energy can turn towards destructive behaviors
such as
digging and chewing. Running, jumping, and rough-housing are all a part
of
being a normal Aussie.
The great intelligence of
these dogs, necessary to out-think and control
livestock, can be detrimental when left untrained and unused. Aussies
are quite capable of out-thinking their owners. Obedience training is
highly
recommended as a means of teaching owners how to channel the typical
Aussie's innate desire to please into appropriate behaviors. Aussies
learn very quickly, so be certain you are willing to keep your Aussie
occupied with walks, play, and training to benefit both mind and body.
Although many Aussies are
friendly with everyone, the Australian Shepherd
as a breed tends to be somewhat reserved and cautious around strangers.
With Aussies of this nature owners should encourage the dog to meet
people but not force encounters. Aussies are often quite protective
of their family and property, a desirable trait in some situations but
not acceptable in others, and some dogs never accept strangers. As with
all dogs, poorly socialized Aussies may become aggressive without
proper training.
Aussies are generally healthy
dogs, and can be expected to live up to
twelve years or more, so ownership can be a lengthy commitment.
Although
minimal, there is some grooming required to keep the coat clean and
conditioned, such as regular brushing and nail trimming. To maintain
their high energy levels, typical active Aussies may eat more than
other, more
sedate dogs of similar size, so be prepared to feed plenty of high
quality food.
However, Aussies are perfect
for people wishing to own a highly trainable,
versatile, super-smart dog that can work/play "till the cows come
home".
If you have the time and commitment for an Aussie you won't be
disappointed.
These special dogs deserve special owners. Their loyalty, drive,
character
and whimsical sense of humor place them in a class by themselves!
Please only contact one of the following reps in order to avoid
confusion and a repeat of efforts. Also, if your area code isn't
represented, please contact just one of the reps listed.
Cindy Downey (Los Angeles County - area codes 310, 661,
805, 818) E-mail
Jacinta Stockton (Riverside County - area codes 909
& 951, Los Angeles County - area codes 213, 323) E-mail .
Becky Rice (San Diego County - area codes 619, 760,
858) E-mail .
Laurie Zurborg (Orange County - area codes 562, 714,
949) E-mail .
Sue Trapp STAAR Rep (San Luis Obispo area) E-mail or (831) 601-3350.
Or call:-
Aussie Rescue & Placement Helpline: 1-877-ARPH-779
