|
The Australian
Shepherd is an amazing animal, one that is higher
versatile and trainable. In fact, the Aussie, as the
breed is sometimes called often excels at
obedience and training. For this reason, the
breed is still a popular choice for people who herd
sheep or cattle, as well as people interested in
competing in canine sports. Keep in mind that this
built-in desire to work can be seen in just about
anything the Aussie does, meaning he puts his best
paw forward at all times.
The one thing to remember when training an
Australian Shepherd is the high energy also means
you need to keep his interest. Because of the high
level of intelligence, this breeds needs to be
exercised, played with, or trained daily. You will
hear that the Aussie can be a demanding dog, often
wanting and expecting tremendous time from its
master, which is true. While somewhat possessive of
the master, proper socialization and training can
take this potentially bad habit and turn it into
something positive.
One of the best ways
to be successful when it comes to training an
Australian Shepherd is to work with a reward system
rather than punishment. In other words, when the dog
does as you command, you would reward the positive
behavior with a treat or playtime with a favorite
toy. This type of training helps to bond dog and
master closer, while making for a happy dog.
Unfortunately, using punishment will only break down
trust between master and dog, which could lead to
some serious behavioral issues.
After all, the goal in training an Australian
Shepherd, whether for herding or sports, is to
make the process fun. If the dog is having a great
time, thinking of training almost as playing, then
you will find his attitude far more willing. Keep in
mind that you want to offer a reward only for the
things you want him to do. Therefore, while he may
do something good, that does not mean he is
automatically rewarded. Be selective so the training
is drilled in to a specific command.
Now, some dog owners and trainers believe that with
an Australia Shepherd, you can merely pat him on the
head and say “Good boy” when he obeys. However, we
do believe and support the treat system. You could
provide the dog with petting and praise but offering
a tidbit as well will make the training session even
more successful. Regardless of the method of
training you choose, you want to reward you Aussie
immediately upon doing the right thing so a link can
be connected in his mind on action and reward.
It is also more beneficial when working with an
Australian Shepherd to work on just one command at a
time. Yes, some dog breeds can learn a number of
things at once but this particular breed will do
best focusing on a single task. This way, he is
clear on the command for which he is being rewarded.
Once he has learned a number of commands, you can
then begin to connect them. Let us say your dog now
knew the “sit”, “lie”, and “heel” commands. Each
would be taught individually and rewarded when
understood. The next step would be to get the dog to
“sit” and then immediately “lie”.
As you train your Aussie, if you find that he
responds with the wrong command, rather than get
angry or frustrated, simply start the sequence over
again. When he understands and carries the command
out, he is then provided with a reward. With this
breed, you definitely want to show consistency.
Australian Shepherds are bright but also intense
when it comes to training so keep to a schedule and
routine, which will help him learn even quicker.
On The Web:
-
Australian Shepherd Training
-
Australian Shepherd Training
Sitemap
|
Web Feeds |
