However, despite their intelligence, they take a little longer to mature emotionally. 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!
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.
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. At two years old, Mini Aussies are considered fully grown and mentally developed and will be better at regulating their energy levels.
It is widely – and falsely – believed that neutering “calms a dog down”. However, an adult or adolescent dog's basic temperament is relatively independent of testosterone, and neutering won't make any significant changes to his intelligence or personality.
Castration may make him slightly lazier, but don't expect it to have any effect on adolescent enthusiasm or rowdy behaviour either! If your dog has a behavioural issue, don't rely on castration as a “quick fix”. While it can help in some situations, it can make other problems much worse.
If your Aussie is on the lighter side, then you might get her spayed within six months, but if she's more than 45 pounds, you can wait nine months or more. Male Australian Shepherds are well over that 45-pound threshold, even if they're smaller, so you can always wait at least nine months to get yours neutered.
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.
Australian Shepherds will bark at strangers, loud noises, and other animals as a way of getting rid of all that excess energy. More so, they can display the same type of behavior towards squirrels, thunderstorms, or even a passing car.
Miniature Australian Shepherd puppies will likely experience stress and separation anxiety if left alone for too long. Mini Australian Shepherd puppies are also more likely to get anxiety if they don't get enough activity.
Your Aussie will bond to his family and be protective of and loyal to them. Many dog owners are surprised to learn that even though Aussies have strong guarding and herding instincts, they are sweet and cuddly indoor dogs that can even be kept in apartments.
They're enthusiastic, good-natured dogs and not known to be aggressive, although they can be vocal because of their working background. Aussies are also happiest when they have a job to do. Their high energy and high intelligence mean that they get bored and lonely very easily.
How Much Exercise Does a Mini Australian Shepherd Need? A Miniature Australian Shepherd requires a moderate amount of exercise—at least one hour per day. Luckily, these pups aren't particular with how they receive their workout, so a walk, run, jog, or hike can all do the job.
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.
Mini Aussies shine in dog sports, agility, obedience competition, and active ranch herding. It's, however, worth noting that Mini Aussies can be stubborn. Therefore, it's best to begin training early to establish basic obedience.
Start by letting him start barking, then when stops barking, say "Quiet" in a firm commanding voice and give him plenty of praise and a treat or two. Repeat until he associates the cue "Quiet" with stopping the noise and getting a treat.
Toy Australian shepherds don't bark excessively. These dogs usually only bark to alert their owner if something is wrong, or if they're unhappy or uncomfortable. These little dogs make good watchdogs, alerting their owner to the presence of any potential intruder.
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.
You've Been Chosen. When the Australian Shepherd chooses their human-buddy, they begin to exhibit loyalty towards you, even to an extreme degree. In fact, given that some Shepherds don't appreciate being alone, you may find your dog wants to spend all their time with you.
Just as humans stare into the eyes of someone they adore, dogs will stare at their owners to express affection. In fact, mutual staring between humans and dogs releases oxytocin, known as the love hormone. This chemical plays an important role in bonding and boosts feelings of love and trust.
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.
Why Shaving Your Miniature Australian Shepherd is a Bad Idea. While discussing grooming tips for this breed, it's essential to emphasize that shaving your Miniature Australian Shepherd is definitely not recommended.
Australian Shepherds are relatively easy to care for when it comes to grooming. They only need to be brushed once or twice a week, and they only need to be bathed every few months. Australian Shepherd's also shed moderately, so they may not be the best dog breed for those with allergies.
No, there's generally no need to give your Australian Shepherd a haircut. The only exception is trimming the hair around the feet, legs, and ears, which can get long. You will also have to cut out matts if your dog's hair gets tangled. In today's article, we'll discuss the coat of the Australian Shepherd in-depth.