Australian Shepherd

by Margie Higgins
(Las Vegas)

Copper - Red-Tri Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds are incredible animals. They have unlimited amounts of energy and intelligence. My "Aussie" Copper is 4 years old and I'm constantly teaching him new and exciting things! They require lots and lots of exercise but it pays off!

I think this breed is best because they have so many incredible talents. They were originally used for herding livestock, but they are wonderful retrievers (game retrievers too) they excel in Frisbee catching, great jogging partners, they were even known to participate in sled dog races! (I had no idea till I read "All About Aussies".

These dogs are easily trained, but start early because a smart dog that uses his brain in the wrong way can easily become a pest! (Trust me, my first Aussie trained me!)

Aussies have wonderful temperament and dispositions. They are great with kids, but it is always good to start socialization with people and kids very early! And take them to obedience, I've heard many cases of Aussies jumping on people when excited. Get rid of this habit immediately!

I've owned a variety of dogs in the past, Black Labs, Yorkies, Cocker Spaniels, and Poodles. None of these dogs brought me the amount of joy and laughter that one Aussie has brought me in 4 short years! And I'm getting another, I have Australian Shepherd fever and this is my breed for life! (I do not support Miniature Australian Shepherd breeders)