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 We rescued a 4yr old male aussie mix 2 years ago. Unfortunately we weren't able to get any background info except that he was owner surrendered. He was neutered by the rescue agency.
Everytime we have work done around the house, he has loose stools and accidents all over the house. If seems to be worse if we are outside and he is left inside. If I take him outside with me he tries to bite. Unfortunately, I can't have him gone everytime the gardeners are due, is there anyway that we can resolve this issue?
Answer Without actually seeing the dog, it's just an educated guess, but it sounds as if he is an anxious dog and depends on your presence for security. Such dogs, left on their own, sometimes do try to use their mouths as a defense, or as a way to move people away from their personal space, or from a valued human, area, or possession. The more your dog feels that you are not providing "back up", the more he has to take matters into his own paws, so to speak, which is not what you want. Training helps, as does managing his environment so that he cannot injure anyone. If you were my client, I would also have you make an appointment with a behaviorist who is also a veterinarian (look on the Animal Behavior Society web site). Some of these dogs do well on medications like Clomicalm while a behavior modification plan is developed and implemented. If you cannot bear the expense of that, then containing him while strangers are about is prudent. Aussies have strong herding and guarding instincts, and that does get them in trouble sometimes, whether they are confident or anxious dogs, which is why reputable Aussie breeders are so careful where they place them - not a breed for everyone.
