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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German Shepherd Dog Breed Information and Best Tips

The human-dog correlation forms an essential part of the society. Legends and tradition have surrounded a part of the character and teaching guidance for the dog. With the introduction of science and human psychology, many scientists have made efforts to characterize and identify the activities of the dogs and the methods involved in training them. Difficulties in the relationship of dog and human aroused during the middle of the 20th century. But, in the 21st century, researches have proved that, hardships were removed depending on the selection of breeds of dogs appropriate to human needs. This small but momentous march may help in maintaining a good relationship with the owners of the dog and the public. There are several breeds of dogs available. A family can select a dog on the available breeds depending on their security requirements.

This article deals with the German shepherd dog also called as Alsatian Shepherd. This breed of dogs shows self-assurance, friendliness and devotion to the owners than other breed of dogs. The recognition of German Shepherds still holds good as they have an unjustified status as aggressive Shepherds, because of their similarity to their far-away predator, the wolf. These dogs become hard to be handled if meddled harshly. They act as watch dogs for houses and also are used for protection purposes because of their courage, heroism, stubbornness, power and vigor. German Shepherds are generally not used in the security services like in army and police. But they are used at homes, since they show loyalty, love and affection to their owners.

German Shepherds are medium sized dogs and normally weighs about 40 kgs. Ears of these dogs remain wilted and droopy and become hard after they grow. Shepherds have sparkling eyes with a package of dense fur and have a proportionate structure towards their adulthood. These dogs develop some problems around the waist called dysphasia due to over jumping and shaking of the body and this leads to joint problems. Skin problems are common in Shepherds and everyday grooming is a must for these dogs. Perfect good food is essential to avoid skin problems.

These dogs eat normally 800gms of meal per day. They normally prefer fresh foods like meat and vegetables, other than dried dog foodstuffs. Shepherds normally prefer long walks and like straying outside the home. These dogs usually sleep outside the door of the house and provide safety and security. In short, these dogs are called as pet dogs. Socialism and instillation of good habits can be made possible by providing proper training to these dogs. It is more important to keep them psychologically and physically engaged.

Scientific researches have proved that by ascertaining a dog's physical structure and behavioral characters, it becomes possible to decide on the breed of dogs appropriate to specific tasks and environments. More significantly, community may be enhanced with a dog or breed of dog, reducing the occurrence of activities arising from unsuited human-dog interactions. However, further study needs to be done to simplify and recover the functioning and social interactions with dogs.

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For more information on the German Shepherd or the different Dog breeds take a look at this Dog Training website.

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Training Your German Shepherd Dog

The German Shepherd Dog truly is a wonderful animal and not only do they make good working dogs, they also make superb family pets. They are however very different from other pet breeds and need to be handled and trained with a different approach to say your average labrador or poodle for instance.


The GSD is a large, strong athletic dog, which needs a lot of mental stimulation and exercise but a well trained shepherd can learn to do almost anything. These dogs positively thrive on challenging activities and they are so willing to serve their master and please. As a working dog used by most police forces, the very look of a GSD is usually enough to act as a deterrent but when called into action there are few dogs that can match the German Shepherd as an all rounder.

If you are considering becoming an owner of a GSD then you need to consider the commitment to training in order that you have happy, well behaved German Shepherd dog that you can take out safely in public.

If you haven't previously owned one of these dogs then please do not take on a youngster lightly. Being involved in GSD rescue I have lost count of the number of young dogs I have had to re-home because owners bought them without doing a bit of research first.

As youngsters they can be very boisterous and can easily knock over children or elderly relatives, especially if you do not discourage the dog from jumping up when excited. A bored GSD can be very destructive and if left alone will trash your house and contents with ease using their big teeth and claws. Unfortunately these dogs don't really mature until they are about 3 years old so you are in for the long haul to get through the puppy and adolescent stage

The German Shepherd needs to be well socialised from an early age and needs plenty of exposure to people and other dogs so that they do not develop aggressive tendencies as they mature.

Joining a dog training class from an early age is a good idea and most clubs will accept dogs into the puppy classes from about 4 months onwards. This should be good fun for your puppy and allows him to play and to socialise but it also serves the purpose of teaching him or her what is acceptable and what is not. This will prove invaluable grounding for your German Shepherd training.

When choosing a dog training class do check out a few first as not all classes make German Shepherds welcome and if any club asks that you muzzle your dog, please give it a miss and move on and find another club. No reputable dog training class would require a dog to be muzzled. If your dog is aggressive towards other dogs there are better ways of controlling the dog safely such as by using a Canny Collar which is a simple effective head collar similar to those used on horses.

The earlier you start training and socialisation the better as GSD's often develop a tendency to be aggressive towards other dogs and also towards strangers and they can become very protective towards their owners and property.

Another important part of training your german shepherd is to get him used to being groomed because they shed copious amounts of hair and although they only moult once a year, it lasts for 365 days. So be prepared for dog hair all over your house, your clothes, in your food and buy yourself a very good vacuum cleaner.

Training your German Shepherd should be very much part of everyday life and is should be fun so stick with it because it really will be worth it in the end.

By: sundial

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Training Your German Shepherd Dog Written by Jayne Shenstone who runs German Shepherd Rescue UK which helps rescue and rehome GSD's across the UK

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The German Shepherd Dog

Dogs called German Shepherds were first exhibited at shows in Germany towards the end of the nineteenth century but they were hardly Shepherds as we know them today being rough coated, short tailed and rather resembling mongrels. The German Shepherd Dog as we now know it didn't really appear until after the Second World War.


The breed has grown enormously in popularity and is now one of the most popular pedigree breeds in the UK as a pet, it is still the favourite working breed for many forces especially the police and they are widely used for security purposes.

It is a fine sight to see a well-trained GSD with his handler, working well to serve and protect. Unfortunately one of the saddest sites is the poor GSD used to guard premises often chained up alone in some dismal filthy yard with a lifetime of incarceration and little stimulation to look forward to.

The German Shepherd is a highly intelligent beast who will show undying devotion to his master but he is a dog that needs company and stimulation to be at his best.

If you are thinking of buying a German Shepherd as a pet and you have not previously owned one, it is important to research the breed and talk to experienced owners so that you fully understand what you are taking on.
GSD's do indeed make wonderful family pets but it is important to remember that this is a working breed and that they do have certain characteristics that can make them more difficult than your average Retriever, Labrador or Collie.

The characteristics of a good working GSD should be firmness of nerve, attentiveness, unshockability, tractability, watchfulness, reliability, and incorruptibility together with courage tenacity and hardness.
A German Shepherd is naturally protective and territorial which is something to bear in mind if you have lots of visitors to your house when careful introduction may be required to assure your pet that the visitor is not a threat to his family.

This is also a breed that requires a lot of time, stimulation, training and exercise - you will never wear them out, they will always be ready for more. A bored, lonely GSD can be very destructive and can cause an awful lot of damage to property in a short space of time.

Perhaps some of the less endearing traits of this breed are the tendency to be very vocal which can be a big nuisance and may be a problem with neighbours. They also shed hair in copious amounts all year round so your vacuum cleaner will work overtime and it's unlikely that your clothes and furnishings will ever be free of dogs hairs again as well as what you are eating invariably being contaminated with that stray hairs.

The biggest problem with the German Shepherd Dog is the fact that to a large extent the breed is being spoilt by irresponsible breeding by inexperienced back street breeders who care nothing about preserving the breed but only about making money from the selling of puppies, Health and temperament problems are all too common, so it is important to take expert advice and try and find a reputable source if you are contemplating buying a puppy.

Consider first taking on a rescue German Shepherd Dog from a reputable rescue that should be able to give you a good assessment of a particular dog. Remember too that an older GSD will be a very rewarding addition to the family and will be housetrained, won't chew, well behaved, probably require less exercise than a young dog and will be very loyal and grateful.

By: sundial

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German Shepherd Dog Written by Jayne Shenstone who runs German Shepherd Rescue UK which helps rescue and rehome GSD's across the UK

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