Are Australian Shepherds very active on a scale 1-10?

Question

Do they always have to have docked tails
?

Answer 1

With 10 being high they are a 9 or 10. They are supposed to be born with naturally "docked" tails, they are not removed.

Answer 2

I have a 2 year old black tri Aussie. On a scale of 1 to 10? They're about an 11 or 12!! They are very active and very smart. They need their brain exercised as well as their bodies.

Docked tails? Sometimes pups come out of mom with naturally docked tails. The rest of the time most breeders dock the tails when they're a few days old. They don't HAVE to be docked. It's just what is the standard for Aussies.

Answer 3

Historically, Aussies have always have docked tails, because that's what is called for in the breed standard. However, if you want your Aussie to have a full tail, you can always request that the breeder not dock one of the puppy's tails when they are born.

I've heard that Aussies are very active (they were bred to be working dogs, herding sheep from sunup to sundown). To be happy, an Aussie will need lots and lots of exercise. There is a bred-down version of the Aussie, called the Mini Australian Shepherd, that might be a better choice for the less active household. They still need lots of exercise, but they can get more of it running around the house, or in the yard, due to their smaller size.

Answer 4

I have 2 Aussies. They need lots of exercise. I mean lots. But this doesn't mean they can't settle down. I like to tell people they have 2 speeds 60 mph and stop. they are often refered to as velcro dogs because they love being right by your side. They are very loving and loyal. If you're interested go to an established breeder or go to an online rescue sight. They can steer you toward what is refered to as a medium or low energy Aussie. I wouldn't have any other kind of dog. Mine are both docked. It comes from the traditional job of sheep herding. The sheep would not bite it or it wouldn't get caught in the gate of the fence. Many unscupulous breeders will breed a merle (spotted) with another merle this causes hearing and eye problems. Check to see if the dog has at least one parent who is a black or red tri (solid color with without white and tan points).

Answer 5

I would say the breed on average is about an 8. Some lines and dogs are more calmer. The breed may be active but most are usually calmer in the house. They breed standard calls for a tail not longer than 4"

Answer 6

I have two Aussies and yes, they are extremely active. I would rate it to a 10. Actually, maybe more to a twenty when I think about it! My two Aussies would rather play and run than EAT or chew a bully stick!!! Both of them have taught themselves to put tennis balls in the automatic tennis ball launcher just so they can throw it for themselves to chase...does that explain it for ya?

And, NO, they do not have to have docked tails unless you want to show him/her.
My 5 year old Aussie has a docked tail and was shown for three years, and my 6 month old Aussie, NON-show, DOES have his tail. Both are fine herding dogs and I actually prefer my aussie with his tail rather than Shyre who does not have a tail.

Tail docking is old fashioned and an unnecessary procedure which ought to be outlawed.

Answer 7

Yes, they are active but they also love to be calm and cuddly.
I have a aussie/lad and he is only 12 weeks.
And no they dont have to have docked tails.
Mine doesnt.
Most purebreds do but if you would rather have one with a tail you can find one.

Answer 8

i would say a 10.... and the one we had didnt have a docked tail... he was colored like a rot too...

But he was very hard to train... I guess if your active enough tho, that kind of dog would be perfect...

Answer 9

no they do not have to have docked tails and yes they are very active. they are very hyper dogs who need lots of attention

Answer 10

10, extremely these animals love to play and need to work. No, they should but they dont have to, some do some dont, if you want to show, they have to be docked.