TIPS & TRICKS
The 5 biggest mistakes with an Aussie puppy
Australian Shepherds and Miniature American Shepherds are intelligent, energetic herding dogs. When their instincts and energy are not guided properly, problems can quickly develop.
Many behavioural problems in young Aussies are not caused by a “difficult dog”, but by misunderstandings about what the breed actually needs.
Here are the five most common mistakes.
1. Not providing enough rest
Many people think an active dog needs to be kept busy all day.
In fact, the opposite is often true.
A young Aussie who is constantly stimulated or exposed to:
• too much play
• too many visitors
• long walks
• busy situations
can actually become restless and more likely to bite or mouth.
Rest is essential.
A puppy often needs much more sleep than people realise.
2. Too much stimulation at once
Taking a puppy to busy places, puppy classes, shopping streets and lots of new environments can sometimes be too much at once.
A puppy needs to discover the world step by step.
Too much stimulation and too many new experiences can lead to:
• restlessness
• biting and mouthing
• barking
• difficulty listening
Calm, controlled experiences often work much better.
3. Not setting clear enough boundaries
Aussies are intelligent dogs that quickly pick up on patterns and human behaviour.
When the rules are unclear, a puppy may start trying to manage or control situations themselves.
That’s why it is important that:
• everyone in the household follows the same rules
• unwanted behaviour is clearly interrupted
• the puppy understands what is and isn’t allowed
Clear guidance gives a dog calmness and security.
4. Treating the puppy like a toy
An Aussie puppy is adorable, but it is still a working dog with natural instincts.
Constantly picking the puppy up, playing too intensely and involving them in everything can lead to:
• excessive excitement
• biting and mouthing
• lack of self-control
A puppy also needs to learn how to be calm and regulate themselves.
5. Expecting everything to happen naturally
Many people assume that a puppy will automatically grow into a calm adult dog.
But every puppy needs to learn:
• how to behave
• what is and isn’t allowed
• how to cope with stimulation
With clear guidance, structure and plenty of rest, a puppy will usually grow into a stable, well-balanced adult dog.
Finally
Australian Shepherds and Miniature American Shepherds are remarkable dogs.
They are intelligent, sensitive and strongly connected to their people.
With calm, clear communication and guidance, they can develop into loyal, stable and wonderful family dogs.
– Canine Compass – Where calm gives direction –