Australian Shepherds are renowned for their intelligence and trainability, making them a great choice for families. They are known to get along well with other pets and have a loving nature. However, it's important to bear in mind that Australian Shepherds are classified as herding dogs. This means they have an instinctive tendency to nip at the ankles of younger children and may even bump into them.
The good news is that this behavior can be managed through early training. The American Kennel Club (AKC) rates Australian Shepherds 5 out of 5 in terms of suitability for children, the highest possible rating. Australian Shepherds can make excellent family pets, but they are not suitable for households with young children. As young kids remind this breed of cattle, they may start herding them by nipping at their heels.
It's important to remember that Australian Shepherds are working dogs, so they need some activity and not be stuck with young kids who are pestering them. Fortunately, Australian Shepherds make great family dogs as they are energetic, intelligent, loyal, highly interactive with family members, and have a loving nature. They can be great playmates for older children since they are playful and affectionate dogs. If you don't allow your child to pet your dog without you being present, show him that he can trust you to keep him safe.
In conclusion, Australian Shepherds can make wonderful family pets if you have older children who understand how to interact with them properly. They are intelligent and easy to train, but it's important to remember that they are herding dogs and need some exercise. With proper training and supervision, Australian Shepherds can be a great addition to any family.
