If you are looking for an intelligent and tough canine friend, then the Australian Shepherd would be the right choice. Although the name of the breed may suggest that it has its origins in Australia, the dog actually came out of the US. In fact, several of these breeds found in the West were undoubtedly from Australia. Therefore, many think they have been named after Aussie herder dogs. Some of the Australian Shepherd training tips mentioned herein, if followed, will make the dogs well-behaved and sociable.

In the early 1950s, movie-makers used the animal largely because of its intelligence and ease of training. Some Australian Shepherds have played major roles in Disney films such as Run Appaloosa Run and Stub: The Greatest Cow-dog in the West.

Based on the appearance, the Australian Shepherds may be categorized into those bred for work and those domesticated for show. While the dogs that are kept for work are usually thinner, with shorter fur coats, the show dogs have longer fur coats. A normal male Australian Shepherd measures 21-23 inches in height and weighs 23-35kg. On the other hand, female dogs measure 18-21 inches in height and weighs 18-24kg.

Being an exceptional breed, Australian Shepherds are good at dog sports and training activities, thanks to their agility and docility. Many have discovered that they bond well with the dogs during the training sessions, as they respond positively to training methods. Hence, they do not usually require much correction. However, Australian Shepherd training tips must include proper lessons in grooming them as responsible dogs.

The breed requires proper socialization and puppy training. Australian Shepherd training tips should include basic and simple lessons in responsiveness. Hence, use short words such as ‘sit’, ‘come’, and ‘down’. In view of the dog’s herder instinct, exercise caution when you let the dog off the leash. Therefore, make sure to train to respond immediately to the recall command. Use less number of words such as ‘sit’ or ‘down’, instead of saying ‘sit down.’ Every trick you may teach the dog should be named, and stick to it without making attempts to word them differently.

Since puppies relish chewing on shoes, socks and other things, keep such articles away from them. To overcome this problem, they may require ‘chew toy’ and ‘bite inhibition’ training sessions. Undoubtedly, Australian Shepherds are an intelligent, active and sociable breed. Yet they are found to be averse to being left alone, as they dislike isolation and show signs of anxiety.

On the flip side, Australian Shepherds often show their herding instinct by trying to herd young children, which may frighten them. As they bubble with energy, these dogs need to be kept busy by assigning some work. Therefore, the Australian Shepherd training tips should include lessons in controlling their herding instinct and aggressiveness. They can be a big help to farmers and those who have ducks and geese, as they prove to be proficient herders.

Being energetic, intelligent and independent dogs, it is necessary to prepare oneself to welcome them as new additions to the family by arranging for proper training. Try to gather sufficient information on the breed for handling them without difficulty. It would be a pleasure to have this breed of dog at home if you bring it up as a socialized, obedient and responsible canine friend by following the Australian Shepherd training tips.