Today the Aussie is more popular than many traditionally popular family dogs. The recognition of the breed by the AKC, and the growing popularity of flyball and agility trials (where the Aussie excels) all contribute to this increased popularity. But are YOU, the casual dog lover, aware of what exactly an Aussie is? And more importantly, are you willing to live by Aussie rules? No matter what you may have heard about the breed from "knowledgeable" dog people, the Aussie is definitely NOT for the casual owner!

Aussies are working stockdogs. They have a different working style than Border Collies, McNabs and Queensland Heelers (Australian Cattle Dogs, Blue Heelers). They are strong, close-working dogs that are very effective in the foldyard, where penning and shedding of balky stock is needed. Possessed of uncanny intuition with hard stock such as Galloway cattle, they combine extreme agility and speed with the right amount of aggression (known as grip) needed to convince hard stock to see things their way. Unlike most Border Collies, most Aussies can "turn off" after their work is done and relax with their families.

Aussies are extremely intelligent dogs, able to "reason" solutions to problems presented to them. They possess a very active imagination, and the ability to use it to their advantage. If there is an easy way to accomplish something, the Aussie will find or invent it. Unlike "push-button" obedience dogs such as Golden Retrievers, Aussies will think for themselves, not just blindly obey a given order. Aussies dislike repetitious tasks or tasks without a clear purpose.

Aussies are guardians. Their territory is theirs, and they will defend it to the death if necessary. This territory includes their owners, dog buddies, cars, boats, motorcycles, even skateboards. A stranger, not accompanied by one of the Aussies’ owners, will be in for an unpleasant time of it should he violate territorial boundaries. Some lines of Aussies are more protective than others; it is wise to seek out the type of Aussie that will best suit your lifestyle.

Aussies can be high-energy motion machines. Given something to do to channel that energy, they will be easier to live with (and you will be in the best shape of your life!). Long walks, runs, Frisbee, fetching games, working stock, agility, flyball-any kind of enjoyable activity is a must for your Aussie's mental and physical well-being. Be aware of this.

Highly trainable, intelligent, loving, eager to please, protective to the extreme, intense when need be and loyal to the death. Hard-headed, stubborn, aggressive, deliberately disobedient and capable of great mayhem. All of the above describe the Aussie. Give him a purpose, love him, train him, LET HIM BE AN AUSSIE, and the first sentence is your reward. Ignore him, mistreat him, restrain his creativity, and the second sentence is YOUR sentence. NOT RECOMMENDED for the casual "backyard pet" dog owner, the Aussie requires a thoroughly dedicated owner who can understand and channel the Aussies energies. A responsible owner who knows an Aussie on the loose is an invitation to disaster. An owner who understands that breeding is best left to the breeders who are committed to producing a superior Aussie thru research and careful planning. One who knows the benefits of spaying/neutering a dog. Who understands the quiet pride and joy of having a well-trained dog for a companion. If you feel you could be that kind of owner, the Aussies of the world welcome you into the brotherhood. If you are looking for a casual family pet and are not willing to expend the time and energy needed to own an Aussie-PLEASE DO NOT GET ONE! Don’t decide you need one because "Len down to the feed store said they was good dawgs". You must understand that the degree of commitment required to properly experience the Aussie is great! So please-be honest with yourself. Be a responsible, understanding, caring owner, and you will enjoy one of the finest companions you will ever own!