This endearing quality in Aussies, their intense desire to please their owners, makes them quick learners and loyal friends. Aussies tend to be naturally reserved with strangers, but shyness or timidity is considered a faulty temperament. Aussies love their family members from the youngest to the oldest and will protect them and their property if necessary. Being so in tune with their owners, they know quickly if you accept a stranger as friendly or not and respond accordingly. They do have strong territorial instincts and rarely will leave their home and family when loose, although it is never recommended to let any dog loose and unattended. With the speed and carelessness of traffic today, a fenced in backyard does provide the best security for your dog.
Aussies need to be a part of the family. They do not do well when kept tied to a doghouse and no reputable breeder will sell an Aussie into a home where a dog is tied out for hours each day. They need daily exercise and love, far more than they need a huge yard to run in. A simple game of fetch with a tennis ball or just taking them with you when you do your daily routine makes them very contented. They love to play outside, but if they get dirty, they will clean themselves off almost cat-like when they return to the house.
As they grow, they will need to be socialized to situations and people outside of the family. Balancing this with time set aside for bonding with family members will make a mentally sound outgoing Aussie. This will prevent them from getting too protective or even possibly shy or aggressive.
Aussies are extremely clean about themselves and their area and therefore are easy to housebreak with just a little common sense on their owner's part. Their coat is not as thick as a collie coat requiring little attention. Hair mats may occur, but usually only behind the ears. Their soft hair is easily vaccuumed during the 1-2 times per year they might shed. Males and spayed females will shed only once each year while intact females shed twice each year.
Males (20-23 in. and about 50-65 lbs.) are slightly bigger than females (18-21 in. and 37-50 lbs.) Either sex make lovely companions. The females are lovers at times demanding that you pet them. While the males will quietly follow you everywhere. The females may jump on your lap or on the couch beside you while the males contentedly sit at your feet. An Aussie male is not a typical "male dog". They can easily be taught not to lift their leg on shrubbery and usually get along well with other dogs.
The Australian Shepherd is an unusually beautiful agile, fun, versatile companion. Although these are generally true statements about the character of the Australian Shepherd, there is no breed that has 100% perfect individuals...not even the Australian Shepherd. When looking for a puppy or an adult, it is important to find a reputable breeder who breeds for good temperament, for genetic soundness and for the improvement of the breed. So when you’re ready to get an Aussie, remember, their loyalty, intelligence, character, and whimsical sense of humor make these dogs very special and truly deserving of special owners.