An Australian Shepherd is generally very eager to learn, so the animal can be trained well, provided that some peculiarities are observed. For example, the breed does not tolerate any inconsistency of its owner. The four-legged friends get along well with other pets, and due to their herding instinct they tend to herd a lot of things that move. The dogs are very affectionate towards their human pack and like to be with them always and everywhere. The Aussie is a great all-around family dog that wants to be challenged in many ways and loves to move. 

Conversely, an Australian Shepherd is not a dog for everyone. The prospective owner should be aware that the dog has a life expectancy of 13 to 15 years and will want to be kept busy and encouraged during that time so that dog and owner can be happy together. It should be said here that the herding dog does not want to stay home alone all day.

Most Aussies are true late bloomers and do not really mature until 3-4 years of age, bursting with energy and drive and reaching sexual maturity at 12 months of age or older. Especially in the first year of life, sensible occupation and consistent obedience training are extremely important. Thus, it is important for the young dog in this phase to learn that sometimes there is simply no occupation for him. If you don’t pay attention to this, the result will be a real exercise junkie with immense stamina. These animals are difficult to control even as they age and usually cannot sit still for a second.

The Australian Shepherd has an extraordinary learning behavior by observing his caregiver. It is therefore extremely important that the future owner does not teach his animal any undesirable behavior or is inconsistent in training. The Aussie remembers every mistake and uses it mercilessly for himself. 

Also on a leisurely walk the future owner should observe his dog to be able to intervene educationally if necessary. The highly intelligent Aussies need a lot of variety and absolutely want to think and work along. The animals need three walks a day with changing routes. Since the breed is very persistent, Aussies feel very comfortable when they can accompany their humans for jogging, hiking, biking or water sports.

Since the breed per-se needs a lot of exercise, it can be readily inspired for all branches of dog sports. Most of all, the animals like it when they are allowed to do sports together with their owner. It doesn’t matter if it’s agility, obedience, dog dance, dog frisbee or even running and cycling – the Aussie is enthusiastic about every sport, as long as it’s varied and not boring.