Looking into getting an australian shepherd?

Question

ive seen pictures and theyre ******* cute. do they make good mates? pros and cons?

Answer 1

Aussies are great dogs, but definitely not for everyone.  If this will be your first dog, then a Lab or Golden Retriever would probably be a better fit for you.

A lot of what Barkbite wrote is VERY true to their breed, however, I disagree on a couple of the points.

Energy levels depend on the dog.  I have one that is VERY active and can out-last the Border Collie down the street.  The other one is completely opposite and quite mellow.  He'd much rather lay down next to me and watch.

Aussies also have a strong natural instinct to herding.  You need to start obedience training IMMEDIATELY and teach them that Herding people/kids is not acceptable.  They are easy to train, but can be headstrong and difficult.  If you want to "Baby" a dog, then an Aussie isn't for you, they need a firm hand.

Shedding.  I keep my boys well brushed and really only have shedding issues twice a year when they blow their Summer and Winter Coats.  When they're blowing their coats, I can brush them and come up with a hairball the size of a Chihuahua.  The nice thing about the way they shed is that it's more "Clumps" of hair than single needle like hairs that stick in clothes, furniture and carpets.  It's easy to pick up.  You need to make sure you've got a healthy stock of Lint Rollers.

Feel free to e-mail me if you think of any other questions!

Answer 2

Very energetic!

You shouldn't decide on a breed based on looks alone.  You will end up with a dog that likely doesn't fit your lifestyle, and both the dog, and you, will be miserable.

Starred for one of my contacts who has owned Aussies longer than I have been alive.

Answer 3

They are great dogs.  You'll need to make lots of time for exercising one though.  Start finding a good trainer, and a breeder or rescue group.  Either way, you can find a great dog.  

With some training, exercise can be jogging, or you on a bike and dog running beside you.  On the bike, you have to be careful not to over do it, so let the dog set the pace.  Running with other dogs is good too.  At the least, count on a minimum hour of exercise a day.  They get nuts otherwise, and that means they can be destructive.

Answer 4

They are good dogs but are herding dogs who need a job and exercise. You will need to commit to extensive training and socialization with this breed. These guys will not be happy just hanging out in the house or back-yard. Don't select a dog just based off of looks, that is a great way of getting yourself in trouble. Also be advised, in addition to the typical genetic issues, Aussies are prone to deafness. especially if bred double Merle.

Answer 5

They make wonderful pets but they are not for everyone.

-They have wonderful personalities, more so than any other dog breed I have owned.

-They are very intelligent and catch on to commands fast. That said they are not always a breeze to train. My pup has dog aggression issues that are a real pain to try and manage.

-They have a medium-high energy level. Not as bad as a border collie, but they still require a fair amount of exercise each day such as a good long run and a few games of fetch. Usually spread out through out the course of the day. I wouldnt recommend them if you dont have a yard.

-They are usually velcro dogs. You cant leave an aussie at home alone all day long everyday. It a disaster waiting to happen

-They get along well with other pets if raised with them

_They are generally a healthy long lived dog. Older dogs may develop hip problems and two merle dogs should never be bred together as it produces lethal whites (deaf blind pups) A prodominantly white aussie is usually a lethal white.They also carry the MDR1 gene which can make them succeptable to adverse reactions to medications that contain Ivermectin (found in some heartworm medications, and topical ear treatments)

-They shed. A lot. They are a double coated breed and while the coat is easy to kepp clean and brushed they pretty much shed all the time, its worse at some times of year.

-They love to have a job to do whether that be herding, agility, Rally-o, tracking, or flyball.

Thats a typical aussie. They are beautiful dogs, and I love mine dearly,  but be sure you have the time to take on an aussie. If you are looking for an active buddy they are great. If you are a stressed out busy person looking for a companion they may not be the best choice