While a dog of any breed can develop reactivity, we mostly see it in high-strung herding breeds or guard dogs. Dog breeds in which reactivity is common are Australian Shepherds, Heelers, German Shepherds and crosses of those breeds.
No. These dogs are not naturally aggressive and make excellent family pets in many homes — they're active, loyal, and loving dogs. So if you're looking for a new canine best friend, an Australian shepherd could be one of the best dogs for you and your family.
Aussies may become frightened or aggressive when they encounter unexpected people or animals if they are not properly socialized. Australian Shepherds require training as well. Because these dogs are bright and eager to please, they are typically simple to teach.
Can Australian Shepherds Become Aggressive Towards Other Dogs? Yes, as with any other dog breed, Australian Shepherds may come to develop a dislike of other dogs and may react accordingly. Several of the triggers that can cause Aussies to become aggressive with humans may cause them to become aggressive toward dogs.
Australian Shepherd Characteristics
Some dogs are more reserved, quiet, and don't care much for running around in a park or fetching a ball or a stick. The Australian Shepherd is the exact opposite. Their energetic nature is what the Aussie breed is most known for.
This breed can become very territorial and this behavior could lead to aggression or shyness, and that could lead to your beloved dog biting someone. Clean house be gone. The Aussie has a beautiful, thick coat you will need to brush regularly to remove any debris and to prevent his fur from matting.
Australian Shepherds are known for their fierce loyalty with one person, that doesn't mean every Shepherd will act like that. Some Shepherds might not build a particularly strong bond with any one family member. Others might like one of you more than another, but they don't sit on you to show it.
It's a way a dog warns that he is uncomfortable with a situation. It's his lowest level way of saying that whatever is going on makes him uncomfortable. Many people mistakenly think growling is bad, so they punish the dog for it.
Besides what's associated with the breed, your Aussie can bark for the same reasons almost any dog does. For example, maybe they vocalize to say hello (like to other dogs at the park), as a warning (if a stranger comes over or someone knocks on the door), or even out of fear (like during a thunderstorm).
Conclusion. Australian Shepherds tend to whine for all sorts of reasons, such as to get your attention or if they're sick or injured. If you can rule out a medical condition, then the next step to quiet your Aussie is to train them not to whine. Failing to indulge in their bad behavior will clue them in to stop.
Female Aussie shepherds are said to be more sensitive and laid back than males, making them easier to handle. They can make great companions for those looking for an intelligent and loyal pet.
Without enough activity, the Aussie can become high-strung, destructive, or snappy. As a working breed, they've got plenty of energy to burn, and they need your help to do it.
Australian Shepherds have a friendly and good-natured personality. They also remain protective of those they love. Their herding background means that they can be a bit bossy. If the situation gets hostile, they might reveal a more aggressive side protect their family.
Australian Shepherd behavior problems include destructive chewing, excessive barking, aggressive biting, chasing, and nipping. These issues mainly result when Aussie's energy needs are not adequately addressed. Under socialization, improper training, and health issues also trigger these problems.
Aussies can be very clingy. They crave human companionship and love being included in pretty much everything you do, including being involved in all family activity. Since they require an active lifestyle, they will want to join in everything and anything that is going on around them.
They worked with livestock and provided companionship for families while protecting them. Australian shepherds love working and being with their families. They're a very devoted breed and highly intelligent. Australian shepherds bond with their owners and family and take their role as guardians seriously.
Because of the breed's extreme intelligence, visual sensitivity, and watchdog traits, Aussie puppies should be socialized in as many different environments and situations as possible.
The breed is considered highly intelligent and easy to train. Aussies are known for being especially eager to please their owners. True to their herding instincts, Aussies are very protective of their families and territory and will let you know if strangers approach, but they are not considered aggressive.
The Aussie's desire to cuddle
Dogs in general are known for being happy, cuddly, sweet, and soothing for a human to pet. Some breeds are, by nature, more affectionate than others. While the Aussie will typically reserve cuddling for one person or a group of trusted people, sometimes he won't want to cuddle at all.
Despite their high energy, Aussies are usually quiet. They may bark to alert their owners of a stranger or an unfamiliar situation but other than that, you won't hear much from them. This fits the self-controlled personality that Aussies possess.
Your dog might sit in your lap to show affection.
It could also be your pup's way of initiating playtime, especially if you're parked on the ground or on the floor. They might think you're inviting them to play. Sitting on you could also make them feel safe, since they look at you as their protector.
The short answer is that no, your dog isn't likely to be less hyperactive after getting spayed or neutered. It won't change their personality much, if at all. Each dog has its own positive and negative social habits.