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Australian Shepherd breed profile

Training and intelligence
The Australian Shepherd is a clever, fast thinker. His mind needs occupying just as much as his body. He can be dominant, but responds well to training.

Temperament
This is a good natured, affectionate breed. Australian Shepherds have the energy and drive of a Border Collie, but can also switch off and relax with their people.

Attitude towards strange dogs and people
Australian Shepherds can be shy and reserved around strangers. It is important to socialise this breed to counteract this tendency. Their natural wariness can make them a good watch dog.

Grooming and shedding
Despite having a medium length coat, Australian Shepherds do not shed much, and weekly grooming is sufficient.

Exercise
These guys need lots of exercise. Regular walks, coupled with free running, and activities to occupy their mind, such as obedience and agility training will keep an Australian Shepherd contented.

Need for company
Australian Shepherds do not tolerate being left alone too much as they can become bored and destructive.

General
This is a one person or one family dog. An Australian Shepherd will attach himself firmly to his family and will want to protect them. This breed might well have an instinct to herd you together which will have to be inhibited through training.

Sharing

273 - dog parkour and dog news discussion

Dog trainer Emma Hendy explains how Dog Parkour can help your bond with your dog, and give you both a new mindset. Julie gives her opinion on some dog news stories which caught her attention.

189 - The Dog Healers and War Dogs Remembered

In this episode you can hear Mark Winik talk about his debut novel, The Dog Healers, and listen to Julia Robertson explain why she founded the charity War Dogs remembered. Plus there's the DogCast Radio News, and what Mischief the German Spitz puppy has been up to.

188 - Service Dogs UK and Roxie the Doxie Finds Her Forever Home

In this episode you can hear about Service Dogs UK, a fantastic charity which trains assistance dogs to support veterans of any service - military personnel, police, firefighters, paramedics and the coastguard - who develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder due to their job. Also, listen to Dr Jody A Dean, a clinical psychologist talk about how her book, Roxie the Doxie finds her Forever Home, is helping children understand and talk about adoption and other family issues. Plus the DogCast Radio News and some thoughts on the alpha dog myth.

187 - Muffins Halo and Chorley Fun Dog Show

In this episode you can hear about Muffin's Halo for Blind Dogs, and what motivates people to enter their dog in a fun dog show. In the DogCast Radio News, listen to stories about the latest dog related research. Plus there's a new member of the DogCast Radio team!

186 - Maxwell Muir on wolves

In this episode you can hear trainer, behaviourist, writer, broadcaster and wolf expert Maxwell Muir talk about what wolves mean to him personally, their plight in a modern world, and his hopes for their future. Plus we have the DogCast Radio News.