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My daughter (17) is getting one of these today - I have gone back and forth about letting her but she has wanted one for so long- I hope he will get along with our labradoodle-anyone have other dogs
Also- we have an electric fence- how will he do with it once he's old enough? I've read alot about exercise-I walk the labradoodle about 2 1/2 miles a day -My neighbor has a border collie - she gets him out about 4 times a day- How fast do they potty train? any other tips?
I assume you are bringing home a puppy. I have never had a puppy, but have a multiple dog household and would recommend that before you add any new dog, you temperment test the dog to ensure it is a proper temperment match for your existing dog.
leerburg.com has some excellent articles about puppies with older dogs on their website. It is very important that a young puppy have positive older dog experiences as a bad one can set them back for life. He is a bit over the top on not letting dogs interact and play with each other [I think it is just fine for family dogs to play or known dogs but I never let my dogs play with strangers]
That said, don't Aussies have the "stare" like BCs do? The stare is instictive part of the hunting sequence selected for in certain types of herding breeds that can get them in trouble with other dogs because it is percieved in dog language as a threat......
He will learn about the fence and do fine. It will probably take some shocks to figure it out....farm dogs have dealt with them for years - somebody else can help with what is the best way to introduct a wee puppy though.
There is a wide variety of personality types in most dog breeds and Aussies are no exception. There are some fairly common traits though. Mouthiness/nipping shouldn't be allowed right from the get go. Be prepared to gently redirect/discourage - i.e. do some reading ahead of time so you know how to address this is a positive way. Aussies often become real one person dogs with a strong guarding mentality - i.e. aggressive toward strangers. Some Aussies won't like the wife's husband to the point where its an issue. Some are fearful which can be as dangerous as the strong minded hard headed ones.
They are generally very smart and very eager to work as a team with someone.
Given their smarts and tendencies it is very important to do puppy socialization, puppy obedience classes at places like Petsmart are fine. It would be good if other members of the family attended some of these and took part and also took part in training at home so that the dog is well socialized to a wide variety of people as well as dogs.
They are great but not as easy as labs, poodles, retrievers.
Exercise is important, they needs lots but really its much harder than that - their minds need to be ENGAGED. They need a PURPOSE and something to think about and that is very hard to provide with todays busy lifestyles. They were bred to work as a team with humans, not just mindlessly taking direction either. Similar to a Border Collie but much "tougher". They were used on cattle a lot which requires that. They don't use eye, they stand and bark, chase and nip. I've seen Aussies get right in a cow's face and bite them on the nose. If you get one of these and don't have time for them or give them a job they will find their job - often guarding you or your property inappropriately or something destructive. I don't want to scare you, they are great dogs and many people have probably gotten one and in blissful ignorance have a wonderful pet. But if you look at Petfinder they have high number listed at shelters (many of which are not Aussies but still) because they more generally aren't easy. Like many things more difficult the reward can be great but you have to have the commitment.
Lots of good info here
Is your daughter ready for a 15-year commitment? Or are you?
They are wonderful dogs, but very smart and very busy.
I'd adopt an old one, and I mean really old. My herding mixes are older adoptees, and they are very lively.
Is your daughter ready for a 15-year commitment? Or are you?
They are wonderful dogs, but very smart and very busy.
I'd adopt an old one, and I mean really old. My herding mixes are older adoptees, and they are very lively.
she already got him- she plans to do most of it-and i will help her
Oh my, what a sweetie. Looks like he is right at home with his new mommy. Congratulations on your new addition!!!
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