Australian Shepherd: character and temperament under the microscope

The Australian Shepherd, affectionately known as the ‘Aussie’, is a dog that makes an impression on everyone who meets it. With its striking coat colours and piercing gaze, it always seems ready for action. But behind those good looks lies a character that is every bit as special. Want to know what to expect from this intelligent working dog? We take you through the main traits of its temperament.

A working dog at heart

The Australian Shepherd was originally bred as a herding dog for livestock, and that is still deeply ingrained in its genes. This dog likes to be busy all the time and has an innate drive to work and perform. Boredom is never far away if there is not enough challenge, and that can lead to undesirable behaviour such as barking, digging or chasing anything that moves, from cyclists to children at play.

This work ethic makes the Aussie a fantastic partner for active people who enjoy doing sport or training together. Think of agility, flyball or even traditional herding work. Without an outlet for all that energy, however, this dog’s character can become quite a challenge for the family.

Smart and eager to learn

Few dog breeds are as intelligent as the Australian Shepherd. This cleverness is a great advantage in training, because the Aussie picks up new commands at lightning speed and actively engages with what you ask. At the same time, it also means that the dog is quick to notice when training is inconsistent, and will cleverly take advantage of it.

• Learns new tricks and commands remarkably quickly
• Needs mental stimulation in addition to physical exertion
• Can make decisions independently, which can sometimes look like stubbornness
• Responds well to positive, varied training methods

An Australian Shepherd without a job is like an engine idling: energy without direction.

A popular saying among Aussie owners

Loyalty to its people

Despite its lively nature, the Australian Shepherd is a true family dog that builds a deep bond with its owners. It is often a little reserved with strangers, but within the family it is affectionate and attentive. Many Aussies follow their owner around the house like a shadow and like to be involved in everything.

This strong bond can also have a downside: some Aussies develop separation anxiety when they are left alone too much. It is therefore important to practise short spells of being alone from a young age, so that the dog learns that this is nothing to worry about.

Vigilant and protective

The Australian Shepherd was originally a herding dog, and that protective instinct is still there. It likes to keep an eye on its surroundings and gives a warning when something is wrong. This makes it a good watchdog, although aggressive behaviour is rarely needed, as it is mainly alert and attentive.

With children in the family, the herding instinct can sometimes show itself in ‘escorting’ running children, which comes down to gentle nudging or chasing. With the right guidance and socialisation, the dog learns to channel this behaviour well.

Is the Aussie right for you?

The Australian Shepherd is a great companion for active families or individuals who like to spend a lot of time outdoors and enjoy training and sport with their dog. For people looking for a quiet dog that is happy to lie on the sofa, this breed is less suitable, unless it is given enough challenge every day.

• Suitable for active families and sporty owners
• Needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation daily
• Builds a strong bond with the family
• Needs consistent, positive training from an early age

The Australian Shepherd’s character is a blend of intelligence, energy and loyalty. If you are willing to invest time and attention in this special dog, you will get a devoted and versatile partner in return. If you have any doubts about your Aussie’s behaviour or health, always consult a vet or a qualified dog behaviourist.