Pros and Cons of Owning an Australian Shepherd: A Personal Perspective

If you’ve read my previous posts, you know I’ve been obsessed with Australian Shepherds (Aussies) for as long as I can remember. Ever since I was a kid, I always dreamed of having one of these amazing dogs. Now that I’ve had the chance to experience living with them firsthand, I can confidently say they’re some of the best dogs ever. But, before you rush out to adopt one, it’s important to know that this breed isn’t for everyone. While Aussies are incredibly lovable and loyal companions, they come with a few challenges that you need to be prepared for.

Let me walk you through some of the pros and cons of owning an Australian Shepherd. I’ve had the privilege of living with several Aussies, so these observations are based on real-life experience.

Pros of Owning an Australian Shepherd

1. Loyalty Like No Other

Aussies are among the most loyal dogs you’ll ever encounter. They’re affectionate and truly enjoy being by your side. Whether you’re working in the garden or just sitting on the couch, your Aussie will be there with you. In fact, they’re often referred to as “stage five clingers” because of their intense attachment. If you’re someone who loves a dog that will always want to be near you, an Aussie is the perfect match.

2. Energetic and Active

For active individuals, Australian Shepherds are a dream come true. They’re full of energy and love to stay busy. Whether it’s going on hikes, runs, or long walks, Aussies are up for the challenge. If you have a high-energy lifestyle, you’ll find that your Aussie will keep up with you every step of the way. They thrive when they can engage in physical activities, making them the ideal companion for outdoor adventures.

3. Highly Intelligent

Australian Shepherds are incredibly smart. They are quick learners and excel at picking up new tricks, commands, and skills. Their intelligence combined with their desire to please their owners makes them highly trainable. This is one of the reasons they make great emotional support and service animals. Plus, if you’re into agility training or want a dog that can learn new skills, the Aussie will impress you with how fast they can pick things up.

4. Natural Working Dogs

Originally bred for herding, Aussies are natural workers. They crave having a “job” to do, whether it’s herding, agility training, or simply running around with a ball. If you like to keep your dog busy and engaged, an Aussie will thrive with a variety of tasks. It’s important to note that they require mental stimulation in addition to physical exercise, so activities that engage their minds are key to keeping them happy.

5. Friendly and Social

Despite their high energy, Aussies are generally friendly dogs. They love meeting new people and often greet strangers with a wagging tail and a happy smile. Although they’re not typically protective unless trained, Aussies are generally well-suited to family life, especially with children, as long as they are properly socialized. They are affectionate, enjoy attention, and love to be the center of attention in social settings.

6. Loving Companions

If you want a dog that will be your ultimate best friend, an Aussie is for you. They are loving, affectionate, and thrive on close companionship. My own Aussie, Finley, can sense when I’m feeling anxious or sad and always comes over to offer comfort. Their devotion and unconditional love make them one of the most heartwarming breeds to own.

Cons of Owning an Australian Shepherd

1. Needy and Clingy

While their loyalty is a huge plus, it can also be a bit much for some people. Australian Shepherds tend to be very needy, requiring constant attention from their owners. If you value your alone time, you might find an Aussie’s clinginess overwhelming. They can suffer from separation anxiety, so it’s important to ensure they don’t feel abandoned if you need to be away. Regular mental and physical stimulation is key to preventing undesirable behaviors that come with loneliness.

2. High Intelligence Can Be a Double-Edged Sword

Yes, Aussies are incredibly smart, but this can also be a challenge. They are quick to figure things out, and if they’re bored or unstimulated, they’ll find ways to entertain themselves – often in ways you don’t appreciate, like chewing on furniture or figuring out how to escape from the yard. If you’re not keeping them mentally engaged, they’ll get creative in ways that can be frustrating.

3. They Need a Lot of Exercise

As working dogs, Australian Shepherds need significant physical activity to stay healthy and happy. This isn’t a breed that’s content with a short walk around the block. You need to commit to at least two hours of exercise per day, as well as additional mental stimulation. If you live in an apartment or a place with limited outdoor space, this could become difficult. However, with proper planning, it’s still possible to provide enough exercise, even in an apartment, as long as you’re dedicated to regular outings.

4. Socialization Is Crucial

Proper socialization is essential for an Australian Shepherd. Without it, they can become shy, fearful, or even aggressive, especially toward other animals and strangers. It’s critical to expose them to new experiences, people, and environments early on to ensure they grow up to be well-adjusted. Without socialization, they may struggle in unfamiliar situations.

5. Health Issues to Be Aware Of

Unfortunately, Australian Shepherds are prone to some health issues, including hip dysplasia and vision or hearing problems, especially in cases of double merles (which result from irresponsible breeding). While these issues aren’t guaranteed, it’s something to consider before adopting or buying an Aussie. Regular vet visits and proper breeding practices can help mitigate these risks.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend Australian Shepherds – but they’re not for everyone. They require a lot of attention, physical exercise, and mental stimulation. If you’re prepared for that level of commitment, an Aussie can be an incredibly rewarding companion.

Before adopting, take time to consider whether this breed fits your lifestyle. They thrive in active homes and are happiest when they have a job to do and someone to share their affection with. If you’re willing to invest the time and energy into meeting their needs, you’ll be rewarded with a loving, loyal, and intelligent friend who will bring immense joy into your life.

As with any breed, make sure to do your research and ensure that you’re ready for the responsibility. An Australian Shepherd is a fantastic dog, but they require an owner who’s up for the challenge.