How to Train an Australian Shepherd Puppy

By Jennifer Metz

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

Collar
Leash
Treats

Step 1:
Socialize your Australian shepherd puppy early on. Socializing can be done by taking them to the park, friends' houses and pet stores that welcome dogs. This is important for a well-adjusted dog. They must be exposed to different people, dogs, places and situations. A well-socialized puppy will learn faster than an unsocialized dog.
Step 2:
Walk your puppy on a leash as soon as possible; he should get used to wearing a collar and walking on a leash for his safety. Australian Shepherds are instinctively herding dogs, and at the sight of other animals, bicycles, or children, may take off running toward them. As "herders," they will want to gather all moving objects in one area. Tug on the leash and stop in your tracks when your puppy pulls. Resume walking when he calms down. Repeat as often as necessary.
Step 3:
Teach your puppy to sit. Start with "sit" because it is easy to learn. Hold a treat in your hand directly above her head until her bottom hits the ground. Reward with a treat when she sits. Whisk away the treat if your puppy jumps. Push down her rear end gently to encourage her to sit. This may require repetitive action for some dogs, possibly taking a few days. Spend 5 to 10 minutes training your puppy daily. Keep lessons short; two to three sessions.
Step 4:
Once your dog has mastered "sit" teach him to lie down. Get your puppy into a sit, then tell him "down." Bring a treat to his nose and lure him to the ground slowly. Your puppy will follow the treat to the ground and lower his body. Reward with the treat as soon as he is down.
Step 5:
Train your puppy to stay by first asking her to sit. Tell her "stay" putting your hand up, palm out. Step back, slowly. If she gets up to follow, take her back to the same spot and repeat the command. Step back short distances, a couple of feet at a time, with your puppy on a leash. Try longer distances, gradually increasing the amount a few feet each time. Eventually, you can train your dog to "sit and stay" without the leash. Return to her and reward with love, affection and a treat.
Step 6:
Ask your puppy to "come" when called. Command your puppy to "stay." Walk back as far as you can while holding the leash. Call his name and say "come" while clapping your hands together twice. Reward him when he arrives at your feet. Tug on the leash if he doesn't come. Increase the distance gradually between you and your dog as his skills improve.

Tips & Warnings

Reward with small, healthy treats to avoid adding pounds to your dog's waistline.
Give one small treat for each positive action learned.
Australian shepherds can be chewers, so provide them with plenty of chew toys while young.
Aussie's do not like to be left alone for long periods of time as they crave stimulation and can become destructive when they are bored.

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