Is an Aussie or Border Collie right for you?

The goal of this website is to provide information to those who may be considering getting an Australian Shepherd (or Border Collie).  I hope that it provides some insight into these wonderful dogs.  It is, of course, only a tiny amount of info, and is not meant to be the definitive voice.  I do hope that it is helpful in the decision making process, if you are considering bringing an Aussie or Border Collie into your home.  There are pros and cons in both breeds. 

Knowing what type of dog you think will fit best into your lifestyle and matches your own personality, goes a long way in making a successful choice of what dog is right for you. If you are not an active, assertive, confident, decisive person, I would not recommend an Aussie or BC. Both breeds need calm leadership and someone who is willing to create structure, be consistent and enjoys the challenge of keeping one step ahead of their dog. Exercise (flat out running) is a daily requirement, neither are breeds that a short walk, will do.

Much of this information also applies to Border Collies, with a few variations here and there.  One of the main differences is an Aussie's guardian instincts. BC's can be territorial but are less likely to be as protective of home and hearth.  BC's are very aware of everything going on around them and are sometimes more aware/affected by environmental changes like noises, movement, etc  Dogs that  are "reactive", are just that reacting-it is often used with a negative connotation, when in fact reacting to environmental changes is what herding dogs were bred for. Undersocialized Aussies and BCs tend to be very "reactive", because each new sight & experience hits them so strongly. How they react and handle new experiences, depends upon their "Fight vs. Flight" drive.

Both breeds often have a lot of "drive", which means different things to different people. What is often misunderstood, in my opinion, is that some of the "driviest" dogs are also very sensitive.  Environmental sensitivity is what makes a good herding dog aware. The ability to think things through and make decisions are what set Aussies & BCs apart from many other breeds. Depending upon the dog, this doesn't always translate well to the dog-sports arena or average home.

Aussies seem to see the world in context and react when things aren't as they expect or are used to.  Some may misinterpret how an Aussie or BC behaves, when it is entirely appropriate within the spectrum of their instincts & genetics.  What may look like extreme behavior to the inexperienced owner, may just be herding behavior that has become mis-directed or allowed to reach a level of inappropriate expression. 

• Do you have an active lifestyle or interest in spending at least an hour or more of your day physically exercising a dog?

• Are you willing to be creative, finding ways to stay one step ahead of these furry Einsteins?

• How would you provide mental stimulation & activities that require a dog to problem solve?

Hmmm, sounds like work.....it is. Aussies and BCs are intelligent breeds that very quickly get into trouble when their minds and bodies are not engaged in constructive ways. If you like a challenge, read on. If you’re a couch potato, this may sound harsh, but you'd be better off getting a stuffed toy, not an Aussie or Border Collie. The smarter the dog, the smarter you need to be, they will not magicly develop into perfect canine companions, on their own.

The Australian Shepherd is an intelligent, medium-sized dog, who possesses strong herding and guardian instincts.  They are people dogs, loving and loyal to a fault and highly sensitive to the world around them-especially where that includes you.  They are generally biddable and easily trained.  Extremely attached to their people, they are not happy when isolated from family activities or left alone for long periods of time.  Their nature is generally reserved with strangers, possessing varying levels of  a territorial/protective instinct.  Once loved by an Aussie, it is for life.  When greeting those they love, they are referred to as "wigglebutts" for a reason.

The Border Collie is a working sheepdog, who needs a job...or they will create their own. Some BCs are reserved with strangers, others very outgoing and social. Using "eye" is how they manage movement of stock, and their working distance is often hardwired. They are known for having incredible energy, stamina and intelligence. They are often "one trial learners", so need people who see cause and effect in training and just daily life...before they do...to keep one step ahead.

 Proper socialization, both at home and away from home, is essential when raising an Aussie or BC.  A function of the Aussie's protective nature can be a tendency to alarm bark to warn their family of possible intruders.  Some Aussies are also more vocal when playing, or when they are in herding mode.  They are also notorious "control freaks".  This is sometimes focused on controlling movement around them or protecting territory or things that they consider valuable or theirs-you, your house, your car, a bag of treats, etc 
A well socialized Aussie does not carry the vocal display or protective behavior any further than necessary, unless there is a perceived serious threat. An Aussie needs to be regularly exposed to the world at large!!! Not just for a week or when it is convenient. They are the type of dogs, whose behavior often reflects exactly what is put into them. To become confident, non-reactive adults they need to get outside of their house, their yard, etc and receive direction and guidance during their impressionable stages, for what is and isn't appropriate behavior. Some more than others-especially if they were one of the shyer puppies in a litter. The first sign of alert behavior (ears go up, eyes zero in on something, etc) towards something new, is when they need feedback-"what a good dog". Praising them for noticing differences, teaches them to welcome new things, and cements their taking direction from you, as their calm and confident leader. 

The Border Collie is  a working sheepdog-and although structure is important for them to efficiently do their job-should not be bred to a  conformation/show standard if that waters down their working ability.  Not everyone has a 100+ acres with a multitude of stock to work daily, but the preservation of the breed's working ability can be channeled and tested even by hobby herdsmen & women. Known for their intelligence, many end up in rescue because their IQ gets them into trouble.

BC's tend to be more pressure sensitive and will naturally move away when approached-this can be misinterpreted as shyness.  It is how they would let off the pressure on stock-some BC's have a very wide working distance, while others are comfortable working closer to you.  They do tend to have sound sensitivity issues and some are not as social to people, while others are completely friendly.  Energy levels depend upon their parents, but they are more likely to develop compulsive behaviors, including hyperactivity, if constantly stimulated.  They need to learn what "down time" is, as some people that enjoy training over-do it and teach them to be constantly up.  A dog that vibrates with anticipation at everything you do, can be tiring to live with-not to mention they must get tired from not being able to relax. One of Ray Coppinger's books surmises that the BC brain is wired differently. I would tend to agree.....there is something archaic about watching a BC in motion, almost like collective consciousness (instinct), that has passed down through the generations.

When you think of the job a dog has been bred for, it gives you an idea of their stamina, instinct, activity level & personality. When the dog is removed from their original purpose, it is crucial that they are provided with outlets for their natural genetic behaviors.  The very qualities that make the Aussie or Border Collie an intuitive and versatile worker, do not always make the best pet-especially for the first time owner.  You always need to be one step ahead, or they are a breed that will take a leadership role if left to their own devices.  One word that sums up Aussies for me is Assertive!  and the Collies...Creative!

Herding breeds need to herd, something, or this instinct redirects into unpleasant behaviors like car chasing, birthday party gathering, shoelace search and destroy, etc. A bored, under-exercised Aussie is like living with an unguided missile that chews, digs and barks.

The Aussie Breed Standard

To read the complete breed standard for Australian Shepherds, go to www.Asca.org, the original registry for Aussies, and for a great visual guide look at the  illustrated Aussie breed standard. The AKC is another registration body for Aussies, with a slightly different breed standard. In general, what both organizations say, is that the Aussie should appear slightly longer than tall, with an overall athletic & balanced appearance. They are double coated, with a denser outer coat & soft undercoat. An identifying characteristic is their natural or docked bobtail.  They generally have two major shedding seasons per year, and do require regular brushing.
In character, they are loyal to a fault with strong guardian instincts.  Some are more protective than others, taking their job seriously of keeping the world in order and safe.  Highly trainable and athletic, they are a breed that are suited to many venues, but also need outlets for their energy and intellect.

Differing Opinions: Form follows Function

An Aussie from "working" lines will tend to be smaller ( although not always), lighter in bone and coat, longer in hock and color variations are often without copper and/or white trim.  In temperament, true working Aussies are intense and task oriented, not happy unless they have a job to do, although calm when not working.  They do better in homes where, if not working stock, they can at least be provided outlets for their drive. 

Conformation/show lines are usually heavier boned and carry more coat.  Their herding instinct is usually (although not always) less intense, and in temperament and drive, they are generally easier going and more middle of the road. 

Both good and bad, much of an Aussie or BC's behavior can be attributed to their original purpose and is affected by their instincts and genetics. Some of the positive attributes of Aussies and BCs are: highly trainable, intelligent, versatile, loving, active and high stamina for those looking for a dog sports companion, medium size, relatively easy to care for wash-n-wear coat, bond strongly with their people, loyal, make you the center of the universe, etc.

Some of the negatives are: high energy, spatially protective, resource/stuff protective (usually with other dogs, normally not directed at people),  sound sensitivity, motion sensitivity, some shed heavily 1-2x year, very good at gardening, singing arias at midnight, etc.

For more info on Aussies, including health and genetic concerns, visit this informative site!  http://ashgi.org.

Dogs and Kids

They quickly figure out who to wrap around their furry paw, beg treats from, etc. If a child is the focus of bossy dog behavior, it is important for the adults to step in. From the start, an Aussie or Border Collie needs to be taught that children are just smaller people and part of the family. Kind but consistent training, that the children take part in, reinforces that they too are to be respected.

Mud-Puppy socializers

 Discouraging nipping and any herding behavior is also very important. An active household with children, can put some Aussies or BCs into overdrive. Children should never encourage the dog to chase them as a game, as this will eventually lead to some misfortune.

The Bottom Line

Aussies and Border Collies are both wonderful breeds, loved and treasured by their people, whether it is because they can work the farm, get Best of Breed, or Qualify in the top placements in agility, obedience, etc.  Different perspectives make the world go round, even in dogs.

AussomeDawgs4@netzero.net

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