So you're thinking about getting an Australian Shepherd. Here are some Frequently Asked Questions...
What is an Australian Shepherd’s personality like?
Aussies were bred to be herd dogs. This means they are intelligent and want to be active. If they aren’t given a job, they can have destructive behaviors like digging and chewing. They are fully capable of out-thinking their owners if they do not have proper obedience training. They are “perfect for people wishing to own a highly trainable, versatile, super-smart dog that can work/play” all day long.
How long can I expect an Aussie to live?
Aussies are usually healthy dogs, but this can be affected by genetics and diet/exercise. However, you can usually expect your Aussie to live up to 12 years or longer.
How big do Aussies get?
Size will depend on age and sex, with females being smaller than males. Adults will grow to be between 18 and 23 inches and weight between 40 and 60 pounds.
Do Aussies shed?
Yes. Aussies have long coats that help them regulate their temperature. So they will shed a lot in the spring. You can minimize shedding the rest of the year by washing and grooming them. However, you should NEVER shave your Aussie. Their coat helps them stay cool during the summer and shaving their coat can be harmful
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Do Aussies bark a lot?
Aussies are not incessant barkers, but are a vocal breed. They will bark at strangers, loud noises, and others animals. If they are bored or isolated away from family they can become more vocal. Make sure to keep them active and socialized so they do not become aggressive. As with all dogs, reinforce good habits with your dogs including when they are rewarded for barking.
Are Aussies good indoor dogs?
Yes, Aussies are smart and are easy to house train. In fact, it is recommended that if your Aussie is a family pet, it should live with you inside. Remember, they do shed, so groom your house pet.
Should I neuter/spay my dog?
If you leave your dog intact (not neutered or spayed), a female will come into heat every six months and will need to be confined for three weeks to keep them from wandering. A male will wander much more frequently looking for females in heat. Neutering and spaying your dog can prevent these habits along with some health problems that can develop later in life.
Should I get a male or a female dog?
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This comes down to personal preference. There are pros and cons to both. A male is usually easier to motivate with food and praise, but loses concentration faster. While a female will usually reach maturity earlier, therefore tend to be more concentrated.
Some articles state that males are more affectionate and will glue to their owners more. This makes them “more loyal and reliable.” Males will also be more likely to fight over territory. This can be minimized if neutered. If you are uncomfortable with your dog undergoing surgery, socialization and positive reinforcement training can help with this behavior as well. Females are more sensitive and tend to get more reserved with age. This makes it easier to deal with their personality. However, remember they are still the same breed so all these differences are minimal. Some owners may even have dogs with personalities opposite of the expectation above. For this reason, we think it is best to focus on breed personality traits along with picking out your puppy in person.
Do we dock tails?
Yes, we dock the puppies’ tails at just a few days old. Occasionally a puppy will even come with a natural bob tail. If you want a puppy with a tail, you will need to place a deposit before they are born or right after. Give us a call and we can talk to you about the litters we are expecting. We have a group of dogs with a diverse range of personalities. We want to make sure you are matched up with a puppy that fits your lifestyle.