Buying Your First Australian Shepherd Dog? Look No Further!

Buying Your First Australian Shepherd Dog? Look No Further!

March 30th, 2020 by Andrey

Last Updated on April 21, 2022

If you are looking for a smart dog with a great desire to please it’s owners, the dog that will become your best friend and always stay loyal to you and your family, the Australian Shepherd is probably one of the best options you can get.

Australian Shepherd dogs have gained huge popularity due to their high intelligence and trainability. If you are planning to buy your first Australian Shepherd, there are some important facts you should know before bringing the puppy home.

1. Prepare for your puppy

The first Australian Shepherd owners should learn as much information as possible about the breed. The Australian Shepherds are known for their ability to successfully control livestock. In order to be able to do this job, the Aussies usually have the following traits:

  • Super intelligence
  • Deep loyalty
  • Agility
  • Strong prey drive

Australian Shepherd puppies have a strong herding instinct and are very intelligent. As a result, this breed does not fit every family type or lifestyle type. First Australian Shepherd owners need to build trusting leadership relationships with their dogs and provide them with mental and physical stimulation.

This strong bond will make your dog feel safe with you in new environments and with new people. Spend as much time as possible with your puppy when they first get home and avoid visitors for a few days if you are able.

2. Get your house ready for a new puppy

Keep in mind that the first Australian Shepherd puppies are curious about everything. Make sure that your house is completely safe for the puppy. Your Aussie will start exploring the house right away. All puppies need to chew something. The Australian Shepherds do the same.

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Remove dangling electrical wires, shoes or any valuable things that your pet can spoil. Remember that your puppy may start chewing things not just because it wants to be destructive. It usually happens when your puppy is teething. When you notice this chewing behaviour, get some teething toys for your puppy.

3. Begin training Australian Shepherd dogs as soon as possible

If you are a first time Aussie owner, you probably don’t know that this dog needs immediate training. Start training the moment you bring the puppy home. Do not postpone this process. Otherwise, some unpleasant consequences may occur. The first Australian Shepherds that don’t receive proper training tend to become aggressive.

Show your dog that you are the leader and he has to obey. If you want your dog to be loyal and happy, avoid physical punishment. Give your puppy clear commands and praise him for good behaviour. Training the first Australian Shepherd can be hard for inexperienced owners. But you will definitely achieve positive results if you persist.

4. Socialise your Dog

The Australian Shepherd is a herding breed. That’s why your puppy will have protective instincts. The early socialisation is extremely important to prevent your dog from becoming overly protective. If you fail to do that, your dog will try to herd any moving object:

  • Kids
  • Cats
  • Vacuum cleaner
  • Lawn mower

The Australian Shepherds are very cautious with strangers. So, try to introduce new people gently. Avoid running, jumping or screaming. Make this process go as smoothly as possible. If you are not quite sure how to do that, invite a professional.

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5. Buy your First Australian Shepherd dogs from a reputable breeder only

Buying your first Australian Shepherd is an exciting event. No doubt, you want to get a healthy puppy that will stay with you for a long period of time. That is why you should buy a puppy from a reputable and responsible breeder.

Responsible breeders put the wellbeing and quality of the puppies first. It can be expensive to produce high-quality puppies with proper diets and appropriate veterinary care. This does mean puppies from responsible breeders can be expensive. Remember, it is because you are purchasing a puppy from a breeder that cares and spent their time and money to produce a quality, healthy dog.

Australian Shepherd dogs make an excellent pet. Your life will change completely the moment you bring this cute puppy home. This dog will definitely make you happy. It may not always be easy to own the Aussie. But it’s always rewarding.