The Australian Shepherd Dog Breed Essential Information

When looking for which dog breed to choose for your family, there are always several issues to take into consideration. Jesse and Harley, who are brother and sister, are the first Australian shepherd dogs we've had in our family, and I must say, I am very impressed by this breed of dog.

When Harley was a puppy and had chewed her squeaky ball to a frazzle, I put it in the bathroom sink to temporarily get it out of sight before I could throw it away. I didn't want any of the loosened rubber to get lodged down her throat. I heard a scrambling noise behind me and lo and behold, Harley had managed to scramble up the side of the bathroom cabinets and was joyfully standing in the sink, retrieving her ball!

Right then and there I knew, this is no ordinary breed of dog! We have no herd of sheep for them to corral, and we only have an oversized, fenced backyard for them to play and romp in, but lots of play at dog parks and long walks in the woods have been a necessity to keep these Aussies happy. Australian shepherds are fantastic dogs for agility training also. The fast-paced runs are perfect for their athleticism.

All in all, I've found them to be energetic, super smart, playful, good with children and one aspect that I really appreciate is that they are a breed that doesn't roam. As far as training, they are so smart, that it doesn't take long for them to catch on to what I am trying to help them understand. The slant I use for training is a gentle, positive approach. With repetition, they are quick to catch on.

For an example, if Jesse rolls in something nasty during our walks, or gets totally muddy playing in the small child's boat we keep full of water in the summer, all I have to do is ask him to jump in the tub, and show him what I mean, and he knows to go straight into the house and jump into the bathtub for a quick wash. My previous dogs were a yellow lab and a German shepherd, and I'd never experienced a dog who could just jump in the tub so effortlessly as Jesse can.

In closing, what I'd like to stress to anyone considering this breed is that they need lots of exercise (not necessarily strenuous), interesting things to do, and to stay close to their family. They are happiest in continual contact with their 'flock' which includes their human family. They want to make sure everyone in the family gets along, too. Harley especially will emit a low growl if she thinks play is too rough (between other dogs or people). She is an expert at breaking up dogs who are too rambunctious with each other if she feels one of them is being bullied or picked on.

All in all, I would highly recommend this breed to the right family. They would not be suitable for a small apartment, but rather need space and an active family to let their personalities and their boundless energy shine through.

For more information on the Australian Shepherd or a full list of dog breeds take a look at this Dog Training website.

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Autism and Service Dogs

First, do you really need an autism service dog?

Special trained dogs can help people with disability to become more independent, including people with autism. For adults and teens, an service dog is much more practical, because they are capable of handling the dog by themselves. At the same time, it doesn't mean that autistic children cannot have service dogs, on the contrary, they could benefit kids with autism in a lot of ways. For example, if the child doesn't come or respond when called, the dog can help you find him/her quickly, especially in school or other public places. Also, the dog could help the child become more social with their peers. These are the bright side of an autism service dog, but, you have to look at the dark side also to make an final decision. The dark side is that the child cannot take care of the dog, the parent have to look after the dog, too. And the fee of an autism service dog is very high. Besids, a dog has about the same intelligence as a three year old, would you trust a three year old with the care of your child? Ok, all things considered, let's suppose that you still want a dog, then you must pay attention to the following questions.

Second, what is the right Service Dog breed for autistic people?

These dog breeds are recommended for people on the autism spectrum, Newfoundland, bloodhound, border collie, Yellow Labs, golden retriever or other highly intelligent breed. Many large dogs are great with kid, gentle and peaceful. Try to avoid small dogs. I cannot say which breed is the best for children with autism, after all every autistic person is different. You may need to hire an animal behavioral consultant to pick up a dog with you and your child. You can choose several most gentle dogs and bring them outside to meet your child to see which one can socialize with her/him best.

Third, how to pick up an autism service dog?

Proper training is the key in an autism service dog. Official service dogs are strictly trained on how to behave with people. Also, the match of the personality of the dog and the child is very important.

http://www.autism-world.com/index.php/2009/09/28/service-dogs-and-autism/

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Is Australian Shepherd Dog Training Manageable and Fast?

Australian Shepherd dog training is a necessary part of making life with an Aussie manageable. Luckily, Aussies respond well to training and as they are highly intelligent, they learn quickly and are a joy to train. As it is with all dogs, consistency is the key to effective Australian Shepherd training. Aussies like structure and respond especially well to knowing their place in the family hierarchy. They are playful dogs and will want to run and romp with you often. Aussies are particularly good at playing Frisbee, and at obstacle courses. Your Aussie will embrace challenges and learn fast so you will need to be on your toes.

Start your Australian Shepherd dog training with the basic commands - Sit, Down and Come. Praise your dog each time they successfully execute a command with petting, praise or dog treats. When they have mastered these commands you can move to more complicated obedience requests. Be careful to always reinforce the basics as you move to new commands.

Because Aussies learn so fast it can be easy to gloss over things - but it is through repetition that a learned command becomes automatic response. Consistency of expectation is critical when working with Australian Shepherds. Always remember to build on past lessons - 'you know to do this, now I want you to do this as well' is the best approach.

Once your Australian Shepherd dog training sessions have helped your dog master the basics you can move on to fun training. With an Aussie, Fetch can easily translate into Frisbee, the chasing instinct can easily be transferred into obstacle running. The key with an Aussie is to clearly communicate what you expect and then to reward the dog for performing as expected. The key to making training manageable and fast is to keep sessions short and focused, and to draw upon the breed's natural desire to please. Letting an Aussie know you are pleased with them is critical to training success.

Australian Shepherd dog training is necessary for a well-adjusted well behaved dog. Some of the training you do will be to curb and focus the natural herding and chasing instincts as well as to establish unmitigated authority. Some of the training of your Aussie will be for fun. No matter what, an Australian Shepherd will need that training to know their place in family hierarchy and to feel they offer a vital contribution to family life. Puppy parents it is up to you to discover the amazing ways you can train your Aussie.

Sherry Harris teaches dog parents puppy training secrets through a step-by-step easy to use manual. With the FREE bonuses you will also learn about veterinary care, food, grooming, treats and toys. To order your puppy training package, just reach for your mouse and click Australian Shepherd Dog Training right now for your unconditional guarantee! For hundreds of free dog articles visit http://www.DogStyleNetwork.com. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sherry_L_Harris

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Anatolian Shepherd Dog Breed Information You Must Know

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog was developed as a large dog to guard livestock. She is powerful, and rugged with a sturdy body and thick neck. She is really not suited to an apartment due to her size and exercise requirements. She at least needs a properly fenced yard for exercise, better yet some acreage or a farm. If properly socialized, she is good with children and makes a mellow dog but a good watch dog. Her size alone is a great deterrent. Never leave any young child unsupervised with a dog for any length of time.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Anatolian Shepherd Dog is approximately 29 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and from 110 to 150 pounds. The female should run about 27 inches to the withers and 80 to 120 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. Canine hip dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness) can occur in this breed. They can be allergic to beef which might lead to reactions such as ear infections. A more natural diet for them is food containing lamb as the meat ingredient. Another problem can be hypothyroidism (sluggish thyroid gland which can result in weight gain).

*Grooming. Her coat is short to medium length with a thick undercoat and she sheds heavily twice a year. You should try to brush your dog frequently, even though this breed requires infrequent brushing. Brushing will help keep your pets coat clean and healthy Brushing will also help you keep a closer eye on your pets health and strengthen your emotional bond with your pet.

*Dogs teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and a toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease. Your dog should also have her toenails clipped. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best choice for this chore.

*Life Span. She can live from 14 to 17 years with proper nutrition, exercise and health care.

*History. The Anatolian Shepherd Dog comes from a section of Turkey called Anatolia. It was bred to be large to help guard flocks of sheep against predators such as jackals, bears and wolves. These dogs were imported into the United States with by quantity in the early fifties. The American Kennel Association started registering them in 1995.

*Category: Livestock guardian dog.

*Registries: AKC, FCI, UKC, ACR, APRI, CKC, NZKC, SKC, NKC, KCGB

*Terms To Describe The Breed: Bold, powerful, calm, mellow, intelligent, territorial, observant.

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

Good with other pets, low prey instinct.

Because of large size, have good guard dog deterrent effect.

May actually protect other animals in your household.

They can make a good family watchdog.

Can stand a harsh climate, both very hot and very cold.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS

Can be aloof and a bit difficult to train.

May choose to disobey.

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For more information on the Anatolian Shepherd Dog or a full list of dog breeds take a look at this Dog Training website.

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