What you need to know before you buy

Aussies are so smart! Yes they are! They are so bright they can outwit the person who doesn't take time to train them. Take the time to give your Aussie the training and attention he deserves. Everyone loves a dog who doesn't jump all over them while they are wearing their favorite clothes, or one that comes when called. Once your Aussie understands what you want of him, he will do his best to please you.

Aussies are so active! For the active family, that is terrific. For those of us who are gone long hours during the day, make the time to play with your Aussie when you come home. Take him on his leash for a brisk walk. Play fetch with a ball or frisbee in a fenced in area. Give him a job to do--bring in the newspaper, watch the kids, drop the dirty socks down the clothes chute--or teach him a new trick.

Aussies are incredibly loyal to their families. Properly socialize your Aussie with people and other animals. Help him become a confident, friendly dog that is neither too shy nor aggressive. Attend an obedience class, or try an agility class where he'll learn not only basic commands, but have fun running over obstacles while learning to listen to you. Aussies are great dogs for the entire family. They love kids when raised with them. They are not so big as to scare Aunt Alice when she comes over, yet they are big and tough enough to herd stock on even the largest of ranches. Males range from about 20 to 23 inches at the shoulder with females between 18 and 21 inches. Their medium fluffy coat will benefit from a thorough brushing once or twice a week and their short stub tail will never send papers flying off your cocktail table.

Aussies are very versatile and willing. You bet the are! An Aussie can fit into a number of situations as long as it is given the time and attention necessary for each. They make great house pets and love to sleep at your feet at night (or, if he has his way, in bed with you). They are, however, a highly active dog and will need plenty of outside walks, games, or jobs to do. If left outside during the day, make sure your Aussie is left in a safe enclosure. Aussies love to run and jum--high!

In short, Aussies Aussies are an active, intelligent breed that, given time and attention, are easily trained and make exceptional companions.