Is the Australian Shepherd Aggressive or Dangerous?

With its bright and lively temperament and friendly nature, the Australian Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breeds of all.

So anyone who claims that an Australian Shepherd is aggressive and therefore dangerous must be very wrong – right?

Is the Australian Shepherd Aggressive or Dangerous? We will get to the bottom of this question in the following guide.

Are Australian Shepherds Aggressive or Dangerous by Nature?

The perhaps surprising answer to this question is actually: Yes, Australian Shepherds can be aggressive by nature and thus a bit dangerous.

Because some traits are anchored in the genes of the pretty Aussie, but do not necessarily have to break the mold.

BECAUSE: This genetically anchored aggression is usually a result of fear and insecurity.

And both of these reactions can in turn be the result of improper upbringing and socialization.

But back to the beginning and the actual nature of the Australian Shepherd.

The American dog breed belongs to the herding dogs, so it has a very attentive and watchful nature.

Strictly speaking, their duties as a classic working dog include watching over their herd and raising the alarm if danger threatens.

A strong protective instinct is just as much a part of the Aussie’s character as his mischievous and playful nature.

Genes are also a factor when it comes to Aussie character.

Because it is assumed that this breed has, among other things, Australian dingoes in the ancestral line.

These in turn are a genetic heritage of the Australian Kelpie, which is another ancestor of the Australian Shepherd.

These two gene pools can contribute to the fact that even an Australian Shepherd is not always the cuddly dog ​​that most dog owners want.

This means that an existing potential for aggression is of natural origin, if you will.

However, the upbringing and utilization of the Australian Shepherd can also contribute to the breed being aggressive/dangerous as a non-natural cause.

Are Australian Shepherds More Dangerous Than Other Dog Breeds?

Is an Australian Shepherd not brought up in a species-appropriate manner, not socialized in a species-appropriate manner and not utilized in a species-appropriate mannerhe can be more dangerous than other dog breeds.

In addition, an Australian Shepherd naturally has the following characteristics:

This sets it apart from dog breeds that are not familiar with these traits because they are not part of their genetic profile.

Dog breeds that do not have any of these traits are, for example, the bichon frisé, the papillon or the pug.

How can I make sure my Australian Shepherd doesn’t become aggressive or dangerous?

So that your Australian Shepherd does not become aggressive or dangerousyou should pay special attention to socialization, training and utilization.

Appropriate socialization

The be-all and end-all of a happy and above all peaceful Australian Shepherd is species-appropriate socialization.

Did you know that all puppies experience anxiety and stress for the first time from 8 weeks of age?

So if you don’t get caught up in time – the Australian Shepherd is not brought up in such a way that fear does not become a trauma for him – this can have long-term consequences.

It is also part of Aussie socialization that the little fur nose has contact with people, other dogs and other animals at an early stage.

Because the sooner the little brat can make his first acquaintances here, the better for his later life and behavior.

Appropriate upbringing

Basic commands like «sit» and «down» as well as the associated dissolve commands are another important aspect of having a peaceful Aussie by your side.

It’s just as important for your Aussie to accept you as the new pack leader. This ranking is important to him.

In addition, your Australian Shepherd must know that you are his rock in the surf – your own protective instinct or not.

Because he knows that he is not in any danger at your side, even if aggression and dangerousness should never become a problem.

Species-appropriate utilization

As an extremely active working dog, the Australian Shepherd needs exercise – both physically and mentally.

If the Aussie can’t work out properly here every day and if you don’t support or challenge him here, boredom is the first consequence.

This in turn can quickly lead to aggression, especially in highly intelligent dogs – and in the worst case this can become dangerous.

Are Australian Shepherds Safe for Families with Children or Other Pets?

Australian Shepherds are then safe for families with children and other pets, if they have been accustomed to children and, for example, cats at an early age.

If Aussies accept these (small) two- and four-legged friends as part of their pack, there are usually no problems.

In the same way, children and other pets must learn that respect and acceptance are not a one-way street, but ultimately a give and take.

Have you already had experience with your Aussie and aggressive behavior? We’d love for you to share your story with us in the comments!