According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, over a third of households in the United States own at least one dog. Without question, canines can make excellent companion animals, and Australian Shepherds are a popular breed. This breed can be a lot of fun, but they can also be protective, helpful, and even valuable for working purposes on your farm.
While Australian Shepherds definitely make good pets, not every dog is immediately a well-behaved animal from the time it moves in with a new owner. In fact, many Aussies need proper training to become the best possible member of the family. Here are a few signs that could indicate your Australian Shepherd may benefit from a behavioral dog training program.
Your Australian Shepherd Growls or Shows Aggression
Australian Shepherds can be somewhat territorial canines, but this behavior should be discouraged from a young age. Otherwise, growling and showing signs of aggression could lead to risks to the owner, family members, or even passersby when the dog gets older. If your pet is growling aggressively over food and toys, showing signs of aggression with people, or otherwise portraying risky behavior, be sure to get them into a behavioral dog training program as early as possible.
Your Australian Shepherd Does Not Follow Basic Training Commands
Aussies are considered highly intelligent canines. These dogs come from a working line and are capable of doing amazing tasks when properly trained. However, the breed can also be stubborn and resistant to following commands if they are not trained in the proper way. If your Australian Shepherd refuses to listen to simple commands like "sit" or "stay" by adulthood, they likely need further training.
Your Australian Shepherd Refuses to Walk Calmly With a Leash
Leash training is important because if a dog does not get used to being led with a leash and collar, it becomes difficult to do the most basic things as the owner. For example, leash-leading is required to keep the dog safe when taking a walk. If your Australian Shepherd refuses to be led on a leash by pulling, tugging, barking, and complaining, they may need additional leash training.
Your Australian Shepherd Does Not Get Along With Other Pets
In general, Aussies are good with other animals, including other dogs and even cats. However, if the dog is not properly socialized when it is young by being exposed to other animals, it can have behavior issues in social situations. If your dog shows aggression towards other pets you have in the house or at the dog park, it is a good reason to seek a behavioral dog training solution.
To find out more, contact a company like Good Dog Vibes.
Share2 February 2023
How trusting are you of your dog when children and strangers are around? Does your dog know how to behave around children and strangers? For years, I kept my dogs locked in my bedroom when we had any guests in the house. I never saw my dog get aggressive towards anyone, but I didn't want to chance him not liking someone and attacking him or her. I decided that it was time for him to go for some formal training so that I could have faith in his ability to control himself in different settings. This blog will show you how a dog can change and how your trust can improve after some training.
