Australian Sheperd Question

New Topic

Australian Sheperd Question

Posted : 5/31/2006 4:59:58 AM

Hi. This is my first post to this forum. I am (potentially finally getting the dog i have always dreamed of, (a black tri australian sheperd)) this week. I am so excited about getting him, that i can barely take it. He will 11 weeks old when i pick him up!
I have some questions about the breed that i have not been able to find anywhere and i was hoping that maybe somebody could help.
How adjustable is this breed to change? Reason being that i am in the military and I move around alittle more than any dog may be able to handle. While i only move once every few years, my next move (coming up in November) is to Germany. I want to make 100% sure that the puppy will be able to handle such a life style. If not, then i will probably not get him. But i have not been able to get a solid answer on this.
I know that getting this puppy will not only impact his life but my own. I know that i am ready for what changes this will bring about in my life but i want to make sure that my potential puppy will be ready also. If the puppy can handle these changes, what things can i do to make sure its as smooth a transition as possible for him?
As much as i want to get this dog, i want to make sure that i will not ruining another life bringing it into my hectic lifestyle. Any help would be greatly appreciated!!!

mrv

Posted : 5/31/2006 6:07:37 AM

Depends on nature and nuture. From day one (shot protection first of course) Take this puppy new places. Make sure you are gone long enough he has to do numerous puppy things (sleep, eat, eliminate, play with others, play by himself). These guys need to learn that changing location is just part of life. You can support a dog in believing home is with you, regardless of where home is. The more restricted the place, people, scents and distractions he encounters, the more he is likely to struggle. Obedience classes (real classes) even if you are a phenomenal trainer, are good because they provide a set a distractions in a predictcable setting for you to use in training. A dog trained without distractions (other dogs, people) etc. if often a dog that is not really "trained". The dog needs to learn that sit is sit, no matter the circumstance or situation. The other part of the equation is the temperment test of the dog. Ask the breeder to review the temperment test with you. Scores of 3-4 on most tests are preferred for the typical pet. 1-2 are more likely to be a challanging dog (and in an aussie that can be daunting). 5 and lower tend toward fear based issues, not as likely the dog will learn the water off a duck's back attitude you are looking for.

twelvepaws

Posted : 5/31/2006 8:30:29 AM

Besides MRV's good coverage of temperament, I think it's more important what his lifestyle will be when he's with you, no matter where that is. Moving every couple of years isn't so bad, as long as he has all the good stuff he needs wherever you may land. Since you've done your homework, you know an Aussie will need lots of exercise and "work."

Good luck if you get that little puppy!

(I really should read my posts before I OK them!)