A Look At Breeds For Puppy Training

Here are some puppy facts about the Australian Shepherd to consider for puppy training.

The exact origin of the Australian Shepherd is not known. The breed that is cherished and loved today was developed exclusively in the United States. The Australian Shepherd has an innate versatility that makes them useful on ranches and farms as a herding dog, retriever, and watchdog. They are typically referred to as “The Aussie”.

The Australian Shepherds most identifiable characteristic is the natural or docked bobtail. Their eyes are one of this breeds most commented on feature. Their eyes come in a variety of colors or color combinations and include blue, amber, hazel, and all shades of brown. The Aussie is a vigorous and athletic dog breed.

The Australian Shepherd has a striking and varied coat. It is of moderate length, straight to wavy, and weather resistant. The under coat is shed twice a year; with moderate shedding between these periods. The coat comes in four accepted colors: black, blue merle, red, and red merle. A variety of white and tan markings may appear on the face, chest, front, and rear legs.

Australian Shepherds are intelligent, delightful, and loyal. They are highly energetic and thrive on being given something to do. The Aussie has a high degree of intensity and a “no-quit” attitude. Their herding instinct may be problematic or annoying to their family, as this breed will often attempt to perform this task on everyone or anything that moves. They are reserved and cautious with strangers until the Aussie decides about them. They are confident and protective. Human companionship is crucial to this breed. They get along well with active, considerate older children. The Aussie is not typically aggressive to other dogs.

The Australian Shepherd requires minimal grooming. An occasional brushing with a firm bristle brush will suffice. It is important to do more in depth grooming when they are going through their seasonal shedding. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary. The Aussie is susceptible to a myriad of health issues and concerns. Their merle coloration carries a blind/deaf factor. Natural bobtails may have serious spinal defects. They are also prone to epilepsy, hip dysplasia, and cataracts.

Australian Shepherds are easy to train. They benefit from early socialization and very basic obedience. It is important that they know who the master is or they will attempt to take control. The Australian Shepherd requires firm, fair, consistent, and effective direction. Their high intelligence and keen learning ability make repetitive training boring.

The Australian Shepherd requires an inordinate amount of exercise. A mere walk is not sufficient. They thrive on running, herding, playing, and all family activities. They are at their best when they are given a great deal of social interaction and a task to do. Australian Shepherds are not recommended for apartment dwelling. They are moderately active indoors and require a non-sedentary owner and a large securely fenced yard or safe open area.

A Look At Breeds For Puppy Training

Here are some puppy facts about the Aussiedoodle to consider for puppy training.

The Aussiedoodle is a cross of two breeds: Poodle and Australian Shepherd. They are often referred to as “designer dogs” and have become popular companions and in some instances are capable of herding.

The Aussiedoodle possess a somewhat rectangular build, is versatile, and displays a proud stance. They are muscular, lithe, and agile. Due to their mixed lineage their appearance can vary.

The coat of the Aussiedoodle may be curly, wavy, or straight and varies in length. There may or may not be an under coat.

Even-tempered, loveable, and sweet, the Aussiedoodle has a pleasing personality. They typically do well with dogs and other household pets. They generally exhibit patience with children. Aussiedoodle’s are friendly to everyone and do not make good guard or watch dogs.

Depending on coat type, the Aussiedoodle may require occassional brushing or professional clipping. It is important to regularly check and clean the ears. They may be prone to such health issues as PRA and hip, elbow, or patella dysplasia. Aussiedoodle’s also have severe reactions to Ivermectin, a medication commonly used for heartworm.

The Aussiedoodle is intelligent and eager to learn. They succeed in obedience and require early socialization. The Aussiedoodle will not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. Training must be done with reward, firmness, fairness, patience, and consistency.

 The Aussiedoodle is very athletic and requires a high degree of physical exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom. They will do well in an apartment provided that their needs are sufficiently met. Aussiedoodle’s do best with a securely fenced yard where they have ample room to run.