Jobs for aussies. Ideas anyone?

[starlope]

I have a 6 month old pup and I am trying to get info on mentally and physically challenging jobs to teach her. Does anyone have an advice?

Thanks

[queenkarlata]

i know that aussies are really smart and energetic dogs. you should look into agility classes. there are small business trainers that offer once or twice weekly agility classes. look into it in your area. ask a pet store or fellow dog owners. agility really is a fantastic mental and physical form of exercise.

[allinthehands]

attach a broom to her butt and teach her to clean your house! :)

[PrincessCare]

attach a broom to her butt and teach her to clean your house! :)

very funny :rolleyes:

so starlope did you decide on anything?

[BetsyJoy]

Have you started with training? When I get a new Aussie pup I start with puppy socialization classes then move upward going thru all the levels of obedience training. By the time you and pup have mastered all the obedience training (Should keep you and pup busy for about a year)...of course adding as many fun tricks as you can think of...a good game is to name all the toys and regularly ask him/her to find a particular toy, Don't respond when the wrong toy is brought to you but when the right toy, the one you asked for, is brought, play with the pup with that toy. If they get bored or can't find the right toy I help them find the right one.

Then if you are so inclined move into agility or some service oriented training. Also take your pup to as many places with you as you can, exposing him/her to as many people and situations as possible...including children and cats. :) Most of all, have fun with your new Aussie, they are a fantastic breed. They need lots of love and attention, wanting to be a contributing member of the family but that's what's so great about them! They keep you on your toes. ;)

[serrod]

BetsyJoy,
The toy naming sound like a very good idea; I’m going to try it on my aussie.

Regarding what to each you d and how to keep him entertain; teach him to do all the standard tricks “Sit, Lay down , Shake left paw and right paw, crawl, stay, etc”and do it twice a day, in the morning before work and at the afternoon after work. My dog really loves it.
You will need to take you dog out every day! When you take you dog out try playing fetching; throw the object to fetch as far as you can so he can get his energy out.

Other thing I do I make him fetch his favorite toy inside the house; but I though the toy down the stair, so, he has to go down and up. This gets him tired.

Last idea… I tough my dog to bring his leash and my shoes from down stairs, try it on your dog. Australian shepherds love to make their owner happy.