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Despite their down-under name, Australian shepherds are an all-American dog breed. Developed in California in the 19th century, these intelligent and energetic herding dogs are not used solely on farms anymore, but also have found their way into the hearts and homes of many families.
Natural athletes, these dogs are known for their ability to run, jump, play, and herd. Thanks to their desire to work, their herding instinct may even cause them to gather up your children or other pets. Despite their playful, loving nature and beautiful multicolored coats, every year Australian shepherds end up in animal shelters and rescues throughout the country.
If you’re thinking of adding an Australian shepherd to the family, you’ll want to make sure the breed is right for your family. These dogs are social and trainable, but they can also get into mischief if you don’t provide enough activity for their bodies and minds.
While there are several breeders in Connecticut, we also recommend that you adopt to save these beautiful dogs from life in a cramped kennel.
How Do You Adopt an Australian Shepherd in Connecticut?
When adopting an Australian shepherd, there is typically an application process. Rescues want to be certain that you can give your dog a safe, forever home. Australian shepherds, especially, are an active dog breed, so they will thrive in a family that can provide them with plenty of exercise and enrichment.
Shelters and rescues will often have their listings online so you can narrow down your search. Then, you can meet the dog in person to see if you feel a connection and want to pursue adoption. If your application is accepted, you may be required to undergo a home visit to ensure that you can provide a suitable home for the dog. Then, you’ll pay the adoption fee and bring home your new best friend.
Breeders similarly have an application process and often a waitlist for puppies. However, due to the higher expense and more business-like nature of breeders, they may not do as much screening and are unlikely to do a home visit.
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How Much Does It Cost to Adopt an Australian Shepherd in Connecticut?Shelters and rescues are vital resources that help rehome animals that have been abandoned, surrendered, or found. They often provide basic medical care for the animals that come through their doors, such as spaying and neutering, as well as essential vaccinations. Adoption fees help cover those costs and deter animal abusers. Fees depend on several factors. It depends on the shelter, the age of the dog, its gender, and whether it is confirmed as a purebred or a mixed-breed dog. You can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $500 in total. This is a significant saving over working with a breeder, which can sometimes cost ten times as much. Adopting an older dog, rather than a puppy, can also come with some benefits. They may already have experienced foundational training and socialization with people and other animals. |
How Should I Train an Australian Shepherd?Australian shepherds are known for their intelligence and ability to learn a great number of different words and concepts. They have a deep-seated desire to learn and work. This makes them easy to train, but also comes with some unique challenges. Every dog has its own unique personality, but some may be quite mischievous. It’s important to be consistent and firm, without using harsh tactics. First-time dog owners may find an Australian shepherd’s energy levels and intelligence a little intimidating, but it’s important to show them that you’re taking the lead. You might try some training programs that are specifically geared towards the needs of Australian shepherds. This can help you overcome the learning curve if you have limited experience with this dog breed. |
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Find the Right Australian Shepherd in Connecticut for You
Australian shepherds make great family dogs, but they do require a lot of commitment from you. An active family, perhaps with kids or other dogs, and access to outdoor space is going to be the ideal home for these dogs. Once you decide that an Australian shepherd is right for you, you can start pursuing adoption.
Meeting a dog in person will be the best way to ensure that you will have a harmonious life together. Preparing to train your Australian shepherd will also help you to have a great relationship for life.
