[Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
chrisx,
I had the good fortune to judge the AKC Aussie National's in Michigan this year and love the breed. They can do it all: herd, obedience, agility (my sport)and they're great companions and extremely intelligent.
A mini-aussie won the 16" class at the AKC Nat's last year in Houston-- Beat all the Shelties to do it. Our national team that just left for the world championships in France includes Suni, a veteran Aussie.
Your pup: how old? 8 weeks is the ideal time to bring a pup home. Earlier and they're too people oriented (low dog/dog skills). Much later and they more dog oriented and need more work to forge the bond necessary for a reliable companion.
Then there's individual variation within a litter. Seasoned dog people do temperament tests on litters until they find the right dog for the job. So there's lots of factors.
What you have going for you is hundreds of generations of pack drive built into this dog. Make it work for you by becoming the center of the universe for this dog, also known as being pack leader. For advice on how, pick up a copy of Jack and Wendy Volhard's "What Every Good Dog Should Know" or their new one on canine good citizens. Both are published by Howell books.
Google for an Aussie news group and listen up.
Find a puppy obedience class near you that uses positive motivational training techniques.
Whatever, I wouldn't let any more time go by without beginning training on this dog. A mind is a terrible thing to waste, as they say. They are not a low maintenance breed and need a job to do. Try agility. Good luck!
Best,
Greg
BTW, last Wed I judged the Golden Retriever Nat's in Cleveland. Tues/Wed I'm doing the same for the Pembroke Welsh Corgi Nat's in Lancaster, PA. Right now I'm judging in Des Moines, IA. Great pork! My little 9-5 Arc wagon has been a great ride all the way. I'd think Aussies and Saabs are a logical combination.
posted by 172.152.237...
Link to the American Kennel Club Website...
, Sat, 20 Sep 2003 21:53:46
No Site Registration is Required to Post - Site Membership is optional (Member Features List), but helps to keep the site online
for all Saabers. If the site helps you, please consider helping the site by becoming a member.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
