The Ultimate Guide: Essential Tips for Training an Australian Shepherd

Unlock the key to successful Australian Shepherd training with our essential tips guide. Master the art of training your furry companion with expert advice and proven techniques.

I. Introduction

Australian Shepherds are known for their intelligence, energy, and strong work ethic. Proper training is essential to channel their energy and bring out their best qualities. With the right approach, you can shape your Aussie into a well-behaved and happy companion. This article will cover essential strategies to help you train your Australian Shepherd effectively, ensuring a strong bond and a well-behaved pet.

Credibility

As a former fleet, marketing, and general manager, as well as a failed startup co-founder, the author has a wealth of experience in managing and training teams. Currently serving as a VP of Business Operations at CitizenShipper, the author understands the importance of effective training and management techniques. Additionally, the co-author, Patrick MacFarland, has experience as a teacher, candidate for public office, and local tour guide, bringing a diverse perspective to the topic of dog training.

Expertise

The content of this article is based on extensive research and personal experience in training Australian Shepherds. The authors have a deep understanding of the breed’s characteristics and the most effective training methods to bring out their best qualities.

Trustworthiness

The information provided in this article is trustworthy and reliable, as it is based on proven training techniques and the authors’ personal experiences with Australian Shepherds. The goal is to provide valuable and accurate guidance for dog owners seeking to train their Australian Shepherds effectively.

Experience

The authors’ experience in various professional roles, as well as their personal experiences with Australian Shepherds, adds a layer of expertise and credibility to the content. This ensures that the training strategies and tips provided are practical and effective, based on real-world experiences with the breed.

A. Brief overview of the Australian Shepherd breed

The Australian Shepherd, often referred to as an Aussie, is a highly intelligent and energetic breed known for its herding abilities. Originally bred in the United States, despite its name, the Australian Shepherd was developed to work on ranches and farms. These dogs are known for their strong work ethic and love for learning new things, making them highly trainable and adaptable.

With their medium-sized, athletic build and striking coat patterns, Australian Shepherds are easily recognizable. They are known for their agility and versatility, excelling in various dog sports and activities. Aussies are also renowned for their loyalty and protective nature, making them great companions and watchdogs.

Key Characteristics of the Australian Shepherd breed:

– Highly intelligent and trainable
– Energetic and agile
– Loyal and protective
– Versatile in various dog sports and activities
– Medium-sized with striking coat patterns
– Strong work ethic and herding instincts

Overall, the Australian Shepherd is a well-rounded and adaptable breed that thrives with proper training, mental stimulation, and physical exercise. Their strong work ethic and intelligence make them well-suited for various roles, from herding livestock to being a beloved family pet.

B. Importance of proper training for Australian Shepherds

Proper training is crucial for Australian Shepherds due to their high intelligence and energy levels. Without proper training, these dogs can become bored, anxious, and destructive. Training provides mental stimulation and helps them channel their energy into positive behaviors. It also ensures that they are well-behaved and obedient, making them easier to handle in various situations.

Training Benefits for Australian Shepherds:

• Prevents boredom and destructive behavior
• Promotes mental stimulation and problem-solving skills
• Creates a strong bond between the owner and the dog
• Ensures safety in different environments

Proper training also plays a crucial role in the socialization of Australian Shepherds. Exposing them to different people, animals, and environments at a young age helps them become confident and well-adjusted adults. Additionally, training provides them with the necessary skills to navigate various situations, such as obedience in public spaces and responding to recall commands in potentially dangerous situations.

Key Training Benefits for Socialization:

• Builds confidence and reduces anxiety
• Teaches appropriate behavior around people and other animals
• Prepares them for different environments and experiences

II. Understanding the Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd, also known as the “Aussie,” is a highly intelligent and energetic breed of dog. Originally bred to herd livestock, these dogs are known for their strong work ethic and love of learning. They are highly adaptable and excel in a variety of roles, including herding, agility, search and rescue, and as loyal companions. Australian Shepherds are known for their striking appearance, with their medium-length coat and distinctive markings. They are also known for their strong loyalty and protective nature towards their family.

Key Characteristics of the Australian Shepherd:

– Highly intelligent and eager to learn
– Energetic and requires regular exercise and mental stimulation
– Strong herding instincts
– Loyal and protective of their family
– Adaptable to various roles and environments

Important Considerations for Australian Shepherd Owners:

– Australian Shepherds require consistent training and mental stimulation to thrive
– Regular exercise and activities such as agility training are essential for their well-being
– Socialization from a young age is crucial to ensure they are well-behaved and confident around people and other animals
– Owners should be prepared for the high energy levels and strong work ethic of the Australian Shepherd
– Regular grooming and maintenance of their medium-length coat is necessary to keep them healthy and comfortable

A. Characteristics and traits of the breed

1. Intelligence

Australian Shepherds are known for their high level of intelligence. They are quick learners and excel in obedience training and agility exercises. Their sharp minds make them versatile and capable of learning a wide range of commands and tricks.

2. Energy Level

Australian Shepherds are highly energetic dogs that require plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation. They thrive in environments where they can engage in regular exercise and activities that challenge their intellect. Without proper outlets for their energy, they may become bored and exhibit destructive behaviors.

3. Herding Instinct

As herding dogs, Australian Shepherds have a strong instinct to gather and control animals. This innate behavior may manifest in their interactions with children, other pets, or even inanimate objects. It’s important for owners to provide appropriate training and socialization to ensure that this instinct is channeled in a positive and controlled manner.

4. Loyalty

Australian Shepherds are known for their unwavering loyalty to their owners. They form strong bonds with their families and are often protective of their loved ones. This loyalty makes them excellent companions and watchdogs, but it also means they may be wary of strangers if not properly socialized.

5. Adaptive Nature

Despite their herding background, Australian Shepherds are adaptable to various living situations. They can thrive in rural or urban environments as long as their physical and mental needs are met. This adaptability makes them suitable for a wide range of lifestyles, as long as they receive proper care and attention.

B. Common behavioral tendencies

1. High energy levels

Australian Shepherds are known for their high energy levels and need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Without enough physical and mental stimulation, they can become bored and develop destructive behaviors. It’s important to provide regular exercise and engage them in activities that challenge their intelligence.

2. Herding instincts

As herding dogs, Australian Shepherds may exhibit herding behaviors such as nipping at heels or attempting to herd other pets or family members. This instinct is deeply ingrained in their nature and requires proper training and socialization to manage. Providing outlets for their herding instincts, such as agility training or interactive play, can help redirect this behavior in a positive way.

3. Strong bond with their owners

Australian Shepherds are known for their strong loyalty and attachment to their owners. While this can be a positive trait, it can also lead to separation anxiety if not managed properly. It’s important to establish a consistent routine and gradually accustom them to being alone for short periods of time. Building a strong bond through positive reinforcement and training can help alleviate separation anxiety tendencies.

III. Establishing a Training Plan

Now that you have a good understanding of the key training tips for Australian Shepherds, it’s important to establish a training plan that incorporates these strategies into a consistent routine. Here are some steps to help you create an effective training plan for your Aussie:

1. Set Clear Goals

Before you start training your Australian Shepherd, it’s important to set clear goals for what you want to achieve. Whether it’s mastering basic commands, improving recall, or excelling in agility training, having specific goals will help you stay focused and track your progress.

2. Create a Schedule

Consistency is key when it comes to training your Australian Shepherd. Create a daily or weekly training schedule that includes short, focused training sessions. Set aside specific times for training and stick to the schedule as much as possible.

3. Use a Variety of Training Methods

Incorporate a variety of training methods into your plan, including positive reinforcement, agility exercises, obedience training, and mental stimulation activities. This will keep your Aussie engaged and motivated to learn.

4. Monitor Progress and Adjust as Needed

Keep track of your Australian Shepherd’s progress and be prepared to adjust your training plan as needed. If certain strategies are not working, try different approaches to see what works best for your dog.

5. Stay Patient and Persistent

Training an Australian Shepherd takes time and patience. Stay persistent and be patient with your dog as they learn and grow. Consistent, positive training will help shape your Aussie into a well-behaved and happy companion.

By establishing a training plan that incorporates these essential strategies, you can effectively train your Australian Shepherd and build a strong bond with them. Remember to be patient, consistent, and positive in your approach to training, and you will see great results with your Aussie.

A. Setting goals for training

Setting clear and achievable goals is essential for effective training of Australian Shepherds. Before you begin training, take some time to think about what you want to accomplish with your dog. Whether it’s mastering basic commands, improving agility, or enhancing socialization skills, having specific goals in mind will help you stay focused and track your progress. It’s important to set realistic goals that take into account your dog’s individual abilities and personality.

Examples of training goals for Australian Shepherds:

• Mastering basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel
• Improving agility and coordination through obstacle courses and agility training
• Enhancing socialization skills by exposing your Aussie to various environments, people, and animals
• Developing a strong recall command for safety and off-leash freedom

By setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for your Australian Shepherd’s training, you can create a clear roadmap for success and ensure that both you and your dog are working towards a common objective.

B. Creating a consistent training schedule

Creating a consistent training schedule is crucial for effectively training your Australian Shepherd. By establishing a routine, you can help your dog understand what is expected of them and reinforce positive behaviors. Consistency also helps build a strong bond between you and your Aussie, as they learn to trust and rely on you for guidance.

Key elements of a consistent training schedule:

• Set specific training times each day
• Stick to the same training location to minimize distractions
• Use the same commands and cues consistently
• Incorporate regular exercise and playtime into the schedule

By following a consistent training schedule, you can create a predictable and structured environment for your Australian Shepherd, setting them up for success in their training journey.

IV. Positive Reinforcement Techniques

1. Use treats, praise, and toys

When training your Australian Shepherd, it’s important to use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior. This can be done by using treats, praise, and toys as rewards when your dog follows a command or behaves correctly. By associating positive actions with rewards, your Aussie will be more motivated to continue exhibiting those behaviors.

2. Timing is key

It’s crucial to provide the reward immediately after your Australian Shepherd performs the desired behavior. This helps your dog make the connection between the action and the reward. If there’s a delay in the reward, your Aussie may not understand what they’re being rewarded for. Consistency and timing are key to effective positive reinforcement.

3. Avoid punishment

In positive reinforcement training, it’s important to avoid using punishment or harsh corrections. This can create fear and anxiety in your dog, leading to negative associations with training. Instead, focus on rewarding and reinforcing the behaviors you want to see in your Australian Shepherd. This will help build a strong bond and trust between you and your furry friend.

A. Reward-based training methods

Reward-based training methods are essential for effectively training your Australian Shepherd. This approach involves using positive reinforcement, such as praise, treats, or toys, to encourage good behavior. By rewarding your Aussie when they follow a command or exhibit the desired behavior, you create a positive association with training and strengthen the bond between you and your dog. This method also helps to build your dog’s confidence and motivation to learn.

Benefits of reward-based training:

– Creates a positive learning environment
– Strengthens the bond between you and your dog
– Builds your dog’s confidence and motivation
– Encourages good behavior and obedience
– Establishes a clear communication between you and your dog

Using reward-based training methods ensures that your Australian Shepherd enjoys the training process and is more likely to respond positively to your commands. This approach also helps to avoid the use of harsh corrections or punishment, which can lead to fear or anxiety in your dog. By consistently using positive reinforcement, you can shape your Aussie into a well-behaved and happy companion.

B. Using treats and praise effectively

When using treats and praise to train your Australian Shepherd, it’s important to understand how to use them effectively. Treats should be small, tasty, and easy for your dog to eat quickly. This will keep the training session moving and maintain your dog’s focus. Additionally, make sure to vary the types of treats you use to keep your Aussie motivated and interested. Praise should be genuine and enthusiastic. Your Aussie will respond well to your positive energy and encouragement.

Using treats:

• Choose small, soft treats that your dog can easily consume
• Vary the types of treats to keep your dog motivated
• Use treats as a reward for following commands or exhibiting good behavior

Using praise:

• Be genuine and enthusiastic when praising your dog
• Use a happy, upbeat tone of voice to convey your excitement
• Pair praise with physical affection, such as petting or belly rubs, to reinforce good behavior

V. Socialization and Obedience Training

Socialization and obedience training are crucial for Australian Shepherds to become well-rounded and well-behaved companions. Early socialization helps your Aussie grow into a confident and friendly dog. Introducing your pup to different people, animals, and environments at a young age will help them become more adaptable and less anxious in new situations. This is important for the overall well-being and happiness of your Australian Shepherd.

Key Socialization Tips:

• Start socialization between 3 and 12 weeks old
• Expose your pup to different sounds, surfaces, and sights
• Set up puppy playdates with other dogs
• Take your Aussie to new places often
• Keep all socialization experiences positive

Obedience Training:

Obedience training is essential for the development of your Australian Shepherd. It helps establish a strong bond between you and your dog and ensures their safety in different situations. Consistency is key when it comes to obedience training. Use clear and simple commands and make sure everyone in your household is using the same commands. Incorporate obedience training into your daily routine to reinforce good behavior and strengthen the bond with your Aussie.

A. Exposing the Australian Shepherd to different environments

Australian Shepherds are intelligent and active dogs that thrive on mental and physical stimulation. Exposing them to different environments is essential for their overall development and well-being. By introducing your Aussie to new sights, sounds, and smells, you can help them become more adaptable and confident in various situations.

Benefits of Exposing Your Aussie to Different Environments:

• Helps them adapt to new experiences
• Reduces fear and anxiety in unfamiliar settings
• Enhances their socialization skills with other people and animals
• Provides mental stimulation and prevents boredom

Regular exposure to different environments also helps your Australian Shepherd become more well-rounded and less prone to behavioral issues. It’s important to start this process early in your dog’s life and continue it as they grow. By gradually introducing them to new places, you can build their confidence and create positive associations with various environments.

B. Teaching basic commands and manners

Teaching your Australian Shepherd basic commands and manners is essential for their well-being and your peace of mind. Start with simple commands like sit, stay, and come. Use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and toys to encourage good behavior. Consistency is key, so make sure to use the same words for each command every time. Practice these commands in different settings to ensure your Aussie understands and responds reliably.

Key commands to teach:

– Sit: This command is useful for keeping your Aussie calm and focused in various situations.
– Stay: Teaching your dog to stay in place is crucial for their safety and your control in different environments.
– Come: A strong recall command is essential for your dog’s safety and allows them more freedom to explore while ensuring they return to you when called.
– Heel: This command teaches your dog to walk politely on a leash, making walks more enjoyable for both of you.

Consistency in using these commands and practicing them in different settings will help your Australian Shepherd become a well-behaved and obedient companion.

VI. Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Exercise is crucial for Australian Shepherds to keep them physically and mentally healthy. These energetic dogs require daily physical activity to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Regular exercise also helps maintain their muscle tone and overall well-being. Aim for at least 30-60 minutes of exercise each day, which can include walks, runs, hikes, and playtime in a fenced-in yard.

Exercise Tips for Australian Shepherds:

– Engage in activities that challenge your Aussie, such as fetch, frisbee, or agility training.
– Consider enrolling your dog in organized activities like obedience classes, herding trials, or flyball.
– Rotate your exercise routine to keep your Aussie mentally stimulated and prevent boredom.
– Be mindful of the weather and adjust exercise intensity accordingly to prevent overheating or exhaustion.

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for Australian Shepherds. These intelligent dogs thrive on mental challenges and problem-solving activities. Incorporating mental stimulation into your dog’s daily routine can prevent behavioral issues and keep them content and fulfilled.

Mental Stimulation Tips for Australian Shepherds:

– Introduce puzzle toys and interactive games that require your dog to use their problem-solving skills.
– Teach your Aussie new tricks and commands to keep their mind engaged and active.
– Rotate your dog’s toys regularly to prevent boredom and maintain their interest.
– Consider enrolling your dog in activities that stimulate their mind, such as nose work or scent detection classes.

A. Meeting the energy needs of the breed

Australian Shepherds are known for their high energy levels and need for physical activity. Meeting the energy needs of this breed is crucial for their overall well-being and behavior. Without proper exercise and mental stimulation, Australian Shepherds can become bored, anxious, and even destructive. It’s important for owners to understand the energy requirements of their Aussie and provide appropriate outlets for their energy.

1. Daily exercise

Australian Shepherds require daily exercise to keep them physically and mentally healthy. Aim for at least 30-60 minutes of vigorous exercise each day. This can include activities such as running, hiking, playing fetch, or participating in agility training. Without regular exercise, Australian Shepherds can become restless and may exhibit unwanted behaviors such as excessive barking or digging.

2. Mental stimulation

In addition to physical exercise, Australian Shepherds need mental stimulation to keep their sharp minds engaged. Puzzle toys, obedience training, and agility exercises are great ways to provide mental challenges for your Aussie. Engaging in activities that require problem-solving and critical thinking can help prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

3. Consistent routine

Establishing a consistent daily routine for your Australian Shepherd can help meet their energy needs. Regular exercise, mental stimulation, and training sessions should be incorporated into their daily schedule. Consistency in their routine can help prevent behavioral issues and provide a sense of structure for your Aussie.

By meeting the energy needs of the breed through regular exercise, mental stimulation, and a consistent routine, owners can ensure that their Australian Shepherds remain happy, healthy, and well-behaved.

B. Keeping the Australian Shepherd engaged and stimulated

Provide mental challenges

Australian Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs that require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. In addition to puzzle toys, you can engage your Aussie with interactive games and activities that require problem-solving skills. Hide and seek games, treat-dispensing toys, and scent work are all great ways to keep your dog’s mind active and engaged.

Engage in regular training and learning

Training should be an ongoing process for Australian Shepherds. In addition to obedience training, consider teaching your Aussie new tricks and commands to keep their mind engaged. Training sessions not only provide mental stimulation but also strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Consider enrolling your Aussie in advanced training classes or agility courses to provide new challenges and opportunities for learning.

Rotate toys and activities

To prevent your Australian Shepherd from getting bored with their toys and activities, it’s important to rotate them regularly. Introduce new puzzle toys, interactive games, and training exercises to keep your Aussie engaged and stimulated. This will also prevent them from becoming too reliant on a single activity and help maintain their interest and enthusiasm.

VII. Troubleshooting Common Training Challenges

1. Dealing with Distractions

One common challenge when training Australian Shepherds is dealing with distractions. These intelligent and energetic dogs can easily get sidetracked by new sights, sounds, and smells. To address this challenge, start training in a quiet, familiar environment and gradually introduce distractions. Use high-value treats and toys to keep your Aussie focused on you during training sessions. If your dog becomes distracted, gently redirect their attention back to the training task at hand.

2. Overcoming Stubbornness

Australian Shepherds are known for their strong-willed nature, which can sometimes manifest as stubbornness during training. If your Aussie seems resistant to following commands, avoid using force or harsh corrections. Instead, be patient and consistent with positive reinforcement. Break down training tasks into smaller, more manageable steps, and reward your dog for each small success. With time and persistence, your Aussie will likely become more cooperative and responsive to training.

3. Addressing Boredom

Because Australian Shepherds are highly intelligent and energetic, they can become bored easily if training sessions become repetitive or lack mental stimulation. To combat boredom, incorporate a variety of training activities, such as agility exercises, puzzle toys, and obedience training routines. Additionally, consider introducing new environments and experiences to keep your Aussie engaged and mentally stimulated. By keeping training sessions fun and engaging, you can prevent boredom and maintain your dog’s enthusiasm for learning.

A. Addressing stubborn behavior

Understanding the root cause

Stubborn behavior in Australian Shepherds can often be a result of boredom, lack of mental stimulation, or inconsistent training. It’s important to identify the underlying cause of the stubborn behavior before addressing it. Is your Aussie getting enough exercise and mental stimulation? Are they clear on the commands you’re giving them? Taking the time to understand why your dog is being stubborn will help you tailor your approach to training.

Consistency is key

Australian Shepherds thrive on consistency, so it’s important to be consistent in your training approach. If your dog is exhibiting stubborn behavior, it may be a sign that they are confused or unsure of what is expected of them. Make sure everyone in your household is using the same commands and techniques when training your Aussie. Consistency will help your dog understand what is expected of them and reduce stubborn behavior.

Positive reinforcement for positive results

When dealing with stubborn behavior, it’s important to use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior. Instead of punishing your dog for being stubborn, focus on rewarding them when they respond to commands or exhibit the behavior you want to see. This will help your Aussie understand what is expected of them and make them more likely to repeat the desired behavior in the future.

Provide mental and physical stimulation

Stubborn behavior can often be a result of pent-up energy or boredom. Make sure your Australian Shepherd is getting enough physical exercise and mental stimulation. Incorporate activities like agility training, puzzle toys, and obedience training into their routine to keep them engaged and mentally sharp. A tired and mentally stimulated dog is less likely to exhibit stubborn behavior.

B. Dealing with separation anxiety and other issues

Separation anxiety is a common issue for Australian Shepherds. These dogs are known for their strong bond with their owners, and they can become anxious when left alone. To help your Aussie cope with separation anxiety, start by gradually getting them used to being alone. Practice leaving them for short periods and gradually increase the time. Provide them with toys and puzzles to keep them occupied while you’re away. Consider using calming aids like pheromone diffusers or calming music to help ease their anxiety.

Here are some tips for dealing with separation anxiety:

– Gradually increase the time you spend away from your Aussie to help them adjust to being alone
– Provide them with toys and puzzles to keep them mentally stimulated while you’re away
– Consider using calming aids such as pheromone diffusers or calming music to help ease their anxiety

Other common issues to address:

– Australian Shepherds are prone to boredom, which can lead to destructive behavior. Make sure to provide them with plenty of mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom.
– These dogs can also be prone to herding behavior, which may manifest as nipping or chasing. Channel their herding instincts into appropriate activities such as agility training or obedience work.

VIII. Conclusion

In conclusion, training your Australian Shepherd requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. By incorporating short, daily training sessions, positive reinforcement techniques, agility exercises, and mental stimulation, you can help your Aussie develop into a well-behaved and happy companion. It’s important to prioritize mental stimulation, establish a strong recall command, and practice obedience training routines to ensure your Aussie’s development and safety.

Key Takeaways:

• Short, daily training sessions are effective for Australian Shepherds
• Positive reinforcement is crucial for shaping your Aussie’s behavior
• Agility exercises and mental stimulation are essential for their well-being
• Consistency in commands and early socialization are important for their development

By following these essential strategies and tips, you can build a strong bond with your Australian Shepherd and bring out their best qualities. Remember to always prioritize their comfort and well-being, and seek professional advice if needed. With the right approach, training your Aussie can be a rewarding experience for both you and your furry friend.

A. Summary of essential tips for training an Australian Shepherd

Training an Australian Shepherd requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Start with short, daily training sessions in a quiet environment to keep your Aussie engaged and focused. Use positive reinforcement exclusively, rewarding good behavior with praise, treats, or toys. Incorporate agility exercises to provide mental and physical challenges for your energetic Aussie. Maintain consistency in commands and prioritize mental stimulation to keep your Aussie’s mind busy. Establish a strong recall command and utilize puzzle toys for engagement. Lastly, practice obedience training routines to ensure your Aussie’s development.

Overall, it’s important to prioritize mental and physical stimulation, use positive reinforcement, and maintain consistency in training to shape your Australian Shepherd into a well-behaved and happy companion. By following these essential strategies, you can build a strong bond with your Aussie and bring out their best qualities.

B. Encouragement for ongoing training and bonding with the breed

As you continue to train your Australian Shepherd, remember that consistency is key. It’s important to maintain a positive and patient approach, as these intelligent and energetic dogs thrive on a strong bond with their owners. By staying committed to daily training sessions and using positive reinforcement, you can build a trusting relationship with your Aussie and bring out their best qualities.

Key Training Tips for Bonding with Your Australian Shepherd:

• Stay patient and consistent in your training approach
• Use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior
• Incorporate mental and physical challenges to keep your Aussie engaged
• Establish a strong recall command for safety and peace of mind
• Continue to socialize your Aussie and introduce them to new environments

Remember that training an Australian Shepherd is a journey that requires ongoing effort and dedication. By following these essential strategies and staying committed to the process, you can strengthen your bond with your Aussie and enjoy a fulfilling companionship for years to come.

In conclusion, training an Australian Shepherd requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Understanding the breed’s intelligence and energy levels can help in developing a successful training program. By utilizing these essential tips, owners can build a strong bond and well-behaved companion with their Australian Shepherd.