Australian Shepherds are a very intelligent, energetic, people loving dog who do best when they have a job.
They need lots of excercise and fit in best with an active person or family.
Aussie's natural instinct in most cases is to herd. This means that they may try and herd anything that moves including, you, children, cats, cars, strangers, chickens, other dogs etc...
An Australian Shepherd can be taught to stay right by your side but it is best if they have a fenced yard.
Australian Shepherds have strong guarding instincts and prefer to be with their families at all times.
Aussie's are GREAT with children except sometimes it can be scary for an unaware child to be herded. This can be resolved with family training and being armed with information.
If allowed an Aussie will follow you room to room and even try to supervise you in the bathroom.
Australian Shepherds are extremely affectionate and will try to lick your face.
Aussie's are assertive by nature, territorial and can come off as pushy.
Australian Shepherds need LOTS of socialization, stimulation and excercise or behavior problems can arise.
They are eager to please, loyal and quick learners
Aussie's do shed and will need to be groomed on a regular basis.
Australian Shepherds need to be on your top priority list.
