Buyer question
Is an Australian Shepherd good for beginners?
It can be: our Animal Library rates the Australian Shepherd 3 out of 5 for beginners (needs a busy owner).
Source: the Australian Shepherd page in the Everybarn Animal Library. Australian Shepherd in the Animal Library
The detail
Despite the name, the Aussie was developed on American ranches to move livestock all day, so it is smart, quick and happiest with a job. Loyal to its family and often reserved with strangers, it suits owners who want an active partner.
- Temperament
- Smart, energetic, loyal
- Best fit
- Active homes, dog sports
- Trainability
- 5 out of 5 (Very quick learner)
- Energy
- 5 out of 5 (1–2 hrs work daily)
- Grooming load
- 3 out of 5 (Weekly brush, seasonal shed)
What to weigh
An under-worked Aussie invents jobs, such as herding children, barking at movement or chewing. They need daily exercise and training, and some can be wary of strangers without steady socialization.