How do australian shepherds act around strangers?
I hear that they are "reserved" around strangers, but I dont really know what this means. Are they shy? Do they growl? I cant imagine them biting people because aussies are not known to be aggressive. Are they just not very nice to strangers? Im hoping to find an aussie puppy this summer and I just dont want visitors or dog babysitters to feel scared. Even if they arent friendly towards strangers, this wont affect my love and desire for an aussie. Im just curious so I know how to handle them when people come to my house.
The dogs I have right now are super friendly with strangers and always want to sniff them and jump on them so im not used to my dog being mean to strangers
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To avoid the things you fear, just make sure to use a reputable breeder, and get your puppy at about 9 weeks of age. First stop is to a very good vet, who can evaluate your pup. Then ask for a recommendation of a good puppy class, and take your new pup to the classes. Beyond that, socialize the puppy well, by having him meet all kinds and ages of people. Let him be around the vacuum cleaner, brooms, hair dryers, etc. Start his nail trims at an early age. You can have people offer him treats (you can just use his own kibble.) Introduce him to your friend's VACCINATED pets. Dogs and cats. Have playtime with other vaccinated dogs. If you do all this often, before your dog is 6 months of age, he should be just fine. When you pick out your new puppy, choose one who comes to you. In most litters, there will be dogs who seek people out, dogs who don't seem to notice, and dogs who cower. Pick the one who seems very friendly and seeks you out. Hope this helps! vet tech
That depends on how well they're trained and socialized, and how well bred and genetically sound they are.
Obviously you haven't bothered to train and socialize your current dogs "always want to sniff them and jump on them" is poor behavior that should not be allowed. Should they injure someone, you'll be sued, and the dogs will be euthanized.
Don't get another dog of any kind until you learn to be a responsible owner.
I would think that "reserved" means that they are neither aggressive nor overly friendly. I've never met an aggressive A.S. Well, there was one that would bark and growl at me, but being dog friendly/knowledgeable, especially with A.S. and certain other breeds, I was not afraid of her and would not back off from her. I was actually able to just walk up to her and pet her.. get her to wag her tail and be friendly,.. even though she would growl at me every time she saw me, lol.
that depends on the individual temperament and upbringing of the dog not its breed
That is very dependent on the individual dog, it is not a "breed" thing.
dunno about being reserved, all the aussie shepherds I know are really social dogs