AboutAnne Springer, BSc.,CPCT, IPDTA, APDT Expertise I'm happy to answer questions about the Aussie breed and temperament, and basic information about working lines versus show lines, training your Aussie, grooming your Aussie, and what it's like to live with a dog breed that's smart and versatile, but isn't for everyone.
Experience Professional trainer, and Aussie owner.
Education/Credentials B.S., Diploma in Dog Obedience Instruction, Graduate, NY School of Dog Grooming, CPCT
Question My aussie is one year old and needs training. I haven't had the money to put him into a class until now. He jumps up, nips, and pulls on the leash (especially if he sees another dog, he wants to play). But on the other hand, he's very apprehensive towards strangers, he won't let anyone touch him outside the family. He bobs and weaves to get away, but doesn't get aggressive. Should I put him into regular training, a clicker class or a class for shy dogs? How is training an aussie different than some other breeds, or so I've heard.
Answer Hi Mackenzie,
I'm glad you have the means to train the dog now, and that you are doing your homework to find the best situation. Aussies are typically reserved with strangers, but you have the best situation, a dog that backs away and does not get aggressive. Not to say that a shy dog couldn't, if they got cornered, but this dog seems like a "soft" dog, and that's better, at least in a pet home. Aussies resent and are offended by physical correction, for the most part, and do best with positive reinforcement. (Usually, if you want to interrupt a behavior, a short "ack" or some other NRM (no reward marker) is sufficient for them, since they are so biddable and human-focused. They also are not a dog that likes repetitive drilling of behaviors, so short, focused training sessions are usually best. They are brilliant, versatile dogs, so can learn just about anything that is physically possible for a dog to do! I would say that you could try a clicker class and if the instructor feels the dog lacks confidence and is too shy, you could opt for the shy dog class. My guess is that if your dog likes other dogs, he will do well in class.
The nipping is a common Aussie trait that says "Hey, I want you to (fill in the blank)". It's rude, but I would be willing to bet that your dog isn't puncturing your skin:-)) Most of these dogs, especially with family, have exquisite bite inhibition. (Working dogs that really injure the cattle don't live too long...)
At any rate, I would excuse an Aussie's nip more than I would a pushy Rottweiler, for example, but it is rude, and if you want it to stop, ignore it (yup, that's what I said - ignore, with a capital "I"). No eye contact, nothing. Maybe even walk away in disgust Some old Aussie folks say that mouthing (not nipping), when done by an Aussie, is a sign of affection. But, that should not be confused with "demand" mouthing, which is not OK.
