New Australian Shepherd

[ZeddsMom]

So I'm a brand new puppy mom. We just bought Zedd and I feel it's a lot like having a toddler but that's expected. I just wanted to stop by and ask if anyone has any tips particular to raising an Aussie we would like to get him into competitions later perhaps like frisbee and are looking at breeding him since he's such a pretty boy. Also we live in a place where winter is already in full swing and I would like some ideas on activties inside to do with him.
Thanks.

[bernicesmama]

how adorable!!!! i have a border collie/aussie mix and a border collie mix, they are great dogs. I would suggest you getting him into puppy class to socialize him and to learn basic commands. You can look for the flyball or frisbee club in your area for more information on that. Can't wait to see more pics, he's adorable. How old is he?

[doglovin]

aww he's a gem!!!

p.s. Tug-a-war is a favorite in-door or out-door game with my dogs

[rutylr]

There is so much you can do with your dog at every time of the year.Find a training class near you and get your puppy out.
Also your puppy is too young to think about breeding.There are health clearences needed before breeding a dog.
Donna

[BirdieGirl]

AWWW! I love aussies! I was going to get one but my mom said she'd rather get another golden retriever (plus there was a $200 difference, we chose the cheaper one...) not that I'm unhappy about that or anything I love Jetta! But he's even a merle...I'm so jealous of you right now!!!!!!!!

[ZeddsMom]

ah thanks guys. good to get a response. Zedd is about 4 months old and a nice handful.
His papers say he is registered with APR and I'm not familair with it at all. Will that make a difference in competitions or breeding later on? We love him regardless though
I do have a concern with leaving him alone though. We recently moved and I don't have a job of classes yet so I can stay home with him. Thankfully the hubby and I will/do have regular hours, an hour or so for lunch and long weekends so it wouldn't be too hard on him and we have a cat also so he wouldn't be all alone. What is a good way to train aussies so that they will be okay alone during the day? I know a doggie door would be a good idea but the cat isn't allowed outside and I'm afraid she would go houdini on us.

[Ladida]

Do a lot of socializing with him, other dogs and people. I would do just as Bernice's mom suggested, puppy classes, Aussies can be dominating so its good to start early. Maybe try clicker training very stimulating exercise. Good luck, I love aussies!

[ZeddsMom]

oh by no means was he "inexpensive" or even "affordable" I just hope the papers we paid for are real. ; ) The emotional value outwaieghs the monatary as we all know

[rutylr]

APR is that the American Pet Registry?
Most Aussies are AKC or ASCA.
Try crate training if you are going to leave the dog home alone for any amout of time.
Donna

[RiverKayleesMuM]

Aussie's are very easy to train and very easy to live with but only if you know how to deal with them. I do hope you researched the breed well. You need to start basic obedience right now and once he hits around 9 months or so you might have to repeat the training(some tend to act like they forgot! lol) Lost of socialization is needed. Aussie's usually aren't very aggressive but just like any dog they can be if not socialized properly. Make sure to take him around cats and small animals while he is young.
Don't really know what all to tell you advice wise but if you have any questions feel free to ask! Enjoy your baby! He sure is a doll that's for sure!