An Aussie doesn't want to be everyone's best friend. They have to be socialized as puppies so they'll tolerate meeting new people, but they won't approach just anyone for kisses. Though some are friendlier than others, they're generally very attached to just one or two family members.
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.
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.
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.
Licking is a natural and instinctive behaviour to dogs. For them it's a way of grooming, bonding, and expressing themselves. Your dog may lick you to say they love you, to get your attention, to help soothe themselves if they're stressed, to show empathy or because you taste good to them!
If your dog follows you into the bathroom, it's likely a result of their animal instinct and pack mentality. Canines who do this are referred to as “Velcro dogs,” due to their desire to be attached to your side. They may follow you around, even to the bathroom, to protect a part of their pack.
Aussies are very sociable dogs. They can feel lonely when they're left alone often and are prone to suffering from separation anxiety. This is when dogs feel an overwhelming sense of anxiety over being apart from their owners.
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.
At 2-3 years of age, Mini Aussies are considered mentally developed and will be better at regulating their energy levels. In other words, they will start to calm down!
Strong guardian instincts Aussies are protective watchdogs. Reserved with strangers Aussies are closely attached to their family but do not tend to seek contact with strangers, or easily accept strangers as “friends.” This does not mean they are shy or aggressive. Aussies are selective in their social interactions.
Several followers commented that their mini Aussies are just as dramatic. Which is no surprise based on their breed's temperament. If you are looking for a loyal companion who's happiest being by your side, the Australian shepherd is the right pup for you.
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.
Take good care of your dog, socialize him, give him positive experiences, and respect his unique personality. He'll reward you with a lifetime of love (even if he sometimes acts more excited to see your brother).
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.
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.
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.
Mini Aussie dogs are active dogs for life, often well into old age. However, owners will notice a decrease in activity level in their dogs' older years. Their puppyhood will be extremely hyperactive until they are around two years old.
Mini Aussies are extremely loving and devoted to their families, incredibly smart, and can do well with children and other pets. A Mini Aussie will want to be a part of your life: they're often called "Velcro dogs" because they will follow you everywhere.
It's perfectly normal for dogs to follow you into the bathroom—and perfectly normal if they don't. The only cause for concern would be if your dog gets seriously anxious about being alone while you're in the bathroom, even for a few minutes. It could be a sign of separation anxiety in dogs.