It may be interesting for you that the Australian Shepherds rank among the top 20 smartest dog breeds in the world. But does intelligence make them a good match for kids? Let’s find out! Australian Shepherds, also called the Aussies, are quite famous for their intelligence, playfulness, and incredible work sense. At first, they were bred as herding dogs, but now they can be guardian and companion as well. But here the question arises: are Australian shepherds good with kids? It is very crucial for families who are thinking about their adoption to understand their temperament, especially with the kids. In this article, we will explore whether Australian Shepherds are good with kids. Their temperament, their Training, and many more things. Let’s have a look!
Table of Contents
Understanding the Australian Shepherd's Temperament
Generally, they are quite popular for their energetic, loving, and playful attitude. However, their temperament has some unique traits that can affect their company with kids.
- Intelligent and Trainable: They are the most genius breeds of dogs, whose behaviour is quite easy to transform because of their trainability.
- Herding Instincts: Intuitively, they have a herd mentality that needs to be monitored and managed through behavior modification training.
- Energetic and Playful: because of their so much vitality and energy they need the proper mental and physical stimulation to remain good with humans and children. These traits make them challenging for active families.
- Loyal and Protective: lastly, they have excellent guarding spirits, loyalty, and proactive nature which make them a strong companion.
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Pros of Having an Australian Shepherd with Kids
Australian Shepherds prove to the one of the best family dogs because of their excellent traits. Here are some benefits of having them with the kids.
- Loyal and Protective: By nature they are an extremely loyal and protective type of breed, which is really beneficial for families to safeguard their children.
- Highly Trainable: Secondly, their intelligence makes them understand different things easily moreover, fertility of mind makes them highly trainable. So, it is quite easy for parents to teach their children friendly behaviours.
- Energetic Playmates: Their playful nature and exercise-loving persona make them an excellent buddy for active children who enjoy outdoor activities.
- Affectionate and Social: Lastly, if they are trained and socialized properly they will be precious companions for families and kids as well.
Challenges of Australian Shepherds for Families with Kids
Contrary to the benefits, they also some challenges for families with young kids.
- Herding Behavior: By intuition, they have a herding mindset, so they may herd kids by nipping at their heels. Training is essential to curb this awful behaviour.
- High Energy Levels: Due to their high energy levels and active nature it may pose challenges to families who are not so active and vigilant.
- Need for Socialization: Due to their wild spirits, they need the proper behavior modification training, redirections, and proper socialization to negate the destructive spirits.
How to Train an Australian Shepherd to Be Kid-Friendly
It is a very interesting and concerning notion of how to train an Australian shepherd to be kid-friendly. It is aforementioned that they are genius and trainable type of dog who can be transformed into a loyal companion by Training and early socialization. Here’s how to raise a kid-friendly Australian Shepherd;
- Start Socialization Early: Just expose them to different people, environments, and children to build their confidence and trust to curb their fears.
- Teach Kids and Dogs How to Interact: Train and educate your kids on how to interact, or play with the Australian shepherds to avoid any mishap or accident.
- Obedience Training: To control your dog’s behaviour, teach them basic commands like sit, stand, etc., to compel them into obedience.
- Address Herding Instincts: No doubt they have herding spirits or herding mentality, just redirect this behavior into more productive activities.
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Safety Tips for Kids and Australian Shepherds
It is very crucial to have some safety tips in mind for the wellness and well-being of children and dogs as well.
- Always Supervise Interactions: To avoid accidents, it is essential to monitor the interaction between the dog and the kid.
- Teach Gentle Play: Educate the children about the dogs and inform them not to do activities that ignite the nasty spirits in dogs.
- Provide Adequate Exercise: Always engage them in the mental and physical stimulation to remain friendly and loving.
- Set Boundaries: Use baby gates or designated areas to give both kids and the dog their own space when needed.
Real-Life Experiences: Testimonials from Aussie Owners
Petsprose has recently received two emails from two pet enthusiasts in which they shared the loving behavior of Australian Shepherds with their family, especially with kids.
- Lisa, mother of two: “Our Australian Shepherd, Max, is incredibly patient with our kids. He loves playing outside with them and always watches over them.”
- Jake, father of a toddler: “At first, our Aussie tried to herd our little one, but with training, he’s become a gentle and playful companion.”
If you’re considering getting an Aussie, talking to other owners and researching the breed’s characteristics can be incredibly helpful.
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Final Thoughts
In a nutshell, the Australian shepherd can be good and joyful companions to your children and to your family if they groom and socialize properly. It is always recommended to train the dogs to induce the desired spirits in them.
