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.
They require plenty of attention. Being left alone for too long may cause the intelligent, energetic Australian Shepherd to create her own fun—often through destructive behaviors or barking. 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.
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.
How much exercise do Australian Shepherds need? Australian Shepherds are extremely active dogs that require more than 2 hours of exercise a day. They require committed owners who are willing to give them lots of exercise if they are not going to be used as a working dog.
Typically, healthy, adult dogs pee about three to five times a day or every six to eight hours. Most Vets recommend taking your dog out to pee every six to eight hours to keep indoor 'accidents' from happening.
An Aussie will have to build up trust with someone before he feels comfortable around them. Factors that can influence an Aussie's desire to cuddle vary, and include the dog's age, his background, any health issues he may have, and his personality.
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.
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.
Adult dogs are generally okay on their own for 4-6 hours a day. But, many dogs are good at adapting to being alone for 8-9 hours while you are at work if they are provided with enough space to comfortably move around.
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.
If possible, dogs older than 6 months should not be left alone for longer than 4 hours at a time. If this is difficult, the absolute maximum time for them to be alone is 8 hours, but this is only recommended if your dog has a way to get outside for a bathroom break.
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.
Their young bodies and brains are still developing, and leaving them alone for too long can lead to behavioral issues and conditions like separation anxiety. No dog should be left alone for a full 8-hour workday.
Most Australian Shepherds should begin calming down at two years of age.
Loyal. Aussies are very smart, loyal, and love having someone to be with at all times. Loyalty is a necessary trait for any service dog. Besides being extremely friendly and energetic, Aussies are usually very easy to train and can make great emotional support animals or service dogs.
Male Australian Shepherds tend to be more affectionate and exuberant throughout life, often forming strong attachments to their people. They are also known for being steadfast, reliable, and less moody than females.
They're a very devoted breed and highly intelligent. Australian shepherds bond with their owners and family and take their role as guardians seriously. This can cause them to be protective, but also aggressive toward things they perceive as a threat if they're not properly socialized and trained.
Letting Your Dog on the Bed is YOUR Choice!
There may be a rare exception, but I can't think of any reason why a dog should have to sleep on your bed. Of course, if he's accustomed to sleeping on his human's bed and you abruptly evict him, he's likely to tell you how he feels about it in no uncertain terms.
Splooting is a great stretch for the animals' hips. Splooting also allows the animal to cool themselves by pressing their belly into the ground or against tile floors. Owners may notice that their pets sploot more often when they are younger.
If your Aussie frequently initiates games that require problem-solving, brings toys to engage in play, or loves agility activities with you, it's a sign of their bond and love for you. They see you not just as their owner, but as their playmate and teammate.
Some adult dogs can hold their pee for up to 10 hours but this shortens as they reach their senior years. Very old dogs start to lose muscle control and may only be able to hold it for three hours or less. This handy table summarises how age influences how long a dog can hold their pee.
Dogs are sociable animals and love company, but although it is good practice that they learn to be home alone for a period of time, it is not advisable to leave them alone for very long periods, like overnight.
Dogs that have double or water-repellant coats, like Australian Shepherds, Siberian Huskies, Akitas, Labrador Retrievers, and Newfoundlands, may only need baths every few months. Bathing them more often than necessary can cause dry skin.