Aussie dogs, or Australian shepherds, are loyal and protective, which can be positive, but can also cause problems if the dog is not socialized early. Ideally, puppies should be socialized as soon as they begin the journey to their new homes.

These dogs were bred to herd, and they instinctively herd creatures smaller than themselves. They should be exposed to small children early, so that they develop a family relationship with them, rather than chasing children and attempting to herd them.

Aussie dogs develop close bonds with their families, but can fear outsiders. Dogs attack out of fear, so it is best to quash the fear factor early through puppy training. Guests should be invited over early in a puppy’s life, so it gets used to having strangers around. The guests should sit next to the puppy until it is used to them, before reaching out to try to pick it up.

Socializing outside the home is important too. Puppies should be placed on a leash and taken to parks or shopping centers, or simply walked down the sidewalk in a neighborhood where joggers and walkers are likely to be encountered. Being near unfamiliar people without getting hurt will convince the puppy that strangers are not a threat.

If an adult dog displays aggression when dealing with strangers, it too can be socialized. The dog can be placed in a crate big enough for it to turn around or lie down comfortably. A stranger can simply sit next to the dog and read a book for an extended period of time without trying to speak to the dog or touch it. At first this might prove stressful to the dog, but, given enough time, the dog will begin to relax, realizing that the stranger will not hurt it.

Using a muzzle is another way of providing protection for strangers who come near the dog. Muzzles are designed so that the dog can breathe, drink, and even eat, so they are not cruel and unusual punishment. They are not punishment at all. Muzzles allow people to approach the dog safely and let it know that they are not to be feared.

Treats are frequently a powerful training tool. The owner of the dog should walk the dog on a leash and when another walker is spotted, a treat should offered out of the line of sight of the approaching stranger. When the dog turns its head away from the stranger, it gets a reward. This will get the dog used to ignoring strangers rather than attacking them.

Aussie dogs can make good friends and companions. Getting them socialized will make them and their families good citizens as well.