The bottom line. Australian Shepherds are bundles of fun, but they are also highly sensitive dogs. You should never leave an Aussie alone for more than four hours at a time, and try to make the most out of every day to prevent boredom and loneliness when they're left to their own devices.
While an Aussie may be left home alone for four to six hours at a time, crate training may be necessary for the dog's safety.
Australian Shepherds are an extremely social breed of dog. This means that they generally do not like being left alone. In fact, Australian Shepherds are one of the most likely breeds of dog to experience separation anxiety (we will talk more about this later on).
Herding dogs, especially the Australian Shepherd, have an instinct to herd and are more prone to anxiety if they cannot corral those in their care. As your shepherd cares so much about you, she may feel severe separation anxiety when you leave the house, and they are completely alone.
Yes! Like most dogs, Aussies (and Mini Aussies) are active and outdoorsy, but still best suited to indoor living. Medium-large-sized homes with gardens are best, but they can do well in smaller homes, too. Just so long as they get everything they need to be happy and healthy!
#7 Australian Shepherd
Its heritage as a herding breed makes this dog suited to an active lifestyle. A dog with energy to spare, the Australian Shepherd has both the stamina and smarts to excel at off-leash activities.
Australian Shepherd
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.
Most Australian Shepherds should begin calming down at two years of age. At this point, they're considered mature dogs who can better regulate their energy. That said, not all Aussies will tone it down at this age. It may take them reaching seniority for their energy to drop off.
Australian Shepherds need to vent their energy on a regular basis and to utilize their active and brilliant minds, otherwise they will become out of control and bored stiff -- which they usually express by barking and destroying. A bored Aussie will trash your house and yard.
Your Mini Australian Shepherd might seem like the most anxious dog in the world, but if they become distracted by a lot of affection, a favorite toy, or some tasty rawhide, they aren't dealing with severe anxiety. Many owners provide their somewhat nervous dogs with calming treats to help anxious dogs relax.
Be sure to leave adult Aussies with access to their bed, drinking water, and some toys to keep them company (as long as your dog won't destroy them). If you can't just leave them roaming free in the house, make sure they're in a well-lit part of the home with windows and that the house is secure.
Most experts agree you shouldn't leave your adult dog alone for more than eight to 10 hours, but some dogs (especially ones with small bladders) can't last that long. DO prepare your dog before you go.
Changes in behavior
Destructive behavior is also a symptom of separation anxiety. Dogs are social and typically prefer to be with others. Some may always struggle with being alone. When a dog doesn't know how to self-soothe or cope, they may turn to chewing or clawing stuff around the house, or barking or howling.
All puppies and young dogs experience a period of extreme activity. In Aussies, it should stop at around 2-3 years of age. But don't worry!
The Aussie's desire to cuddle
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.
Giving an Aussie the stimulation they need
Of course, Aussies need plenty of physical exercise: no less than one hour per day, and preferably upwards of two hours. This goes for both standard and mini Aussies. Beyond the physical however, Aussies need to work out their brains.
#1 Vizsla. Known as the ultimate Velcro dog, this Hungarian breed is literally attached to their owner, and is happiest when right by your side. They were bred for falconry, and still have tons of energy, so this pup is best for people who enjoy active lifestyles.
Someone with social anxiety and difficulty connecting.
A breed known for being sociable, such as a Golden Retriever, might be a good choice. Breeds like this can make it easier to connect with other dogs and in turn other people, as they tend to love being the center of attention.
An active yet easy-going dog, the Australian shepherd loves to romp with children and tends to get along well with other pets. Australian shepherds are great family pets, herding animals, police dogs and competitors in obedience trials.
As long as you devote enough time and energy to it, an Australian Shepherd will reward you tenfold with loyalty and hard work. Taking care of an Australian Shepherd, however, is no easy task: this dog breed demands a lot of attention and space to consume its energy.
Australian Shepherds are generally not aggressive, despite their reputation as bright and energetic working dogs. They, like any other breed, can become aggressive if not properly socialized and trained. Aussies, on the other hand, can be quiet, amiable, and well-behaved pets with proper socialization and training.