Rehabbing an Aggressive Australian Shepherd

Today, all of the dogs and I, played ball with the chuck-it ball launcher, to expend excess energy. With all of the activities that I do with the dogs, rules of conduct and play are enforced. The dogs must wait until I say, "go", then they are released from a stay to take-off, and chase the ball.By giving and enforcing rules, boundaries, and limitations; the dogs get a sense of pack structure. Since dogs are only about 1% away, genetically, from wolves, they still strive to create and maintai …

My friend Roland came over to work sheep with his dog Jessy. Last week, Jessy had been spayed, and Roland hadn't been able to sheepdog herd with her for a while. Decker had also missed Jessy. They are best friends, always playing and chasing each other as fast as they can run, around the house and back again. Often, we will see Decker on his back, with Jessy straddling him, as they mouth fight.While Roland did some sheepdog herding with his dog, I went over to the other side of the house to …

On Tuesday, I started introducing driving to Decker. Like most dogs, he was reluctant. He wanted to bring me the sheep instead of driving them away. I only just touched on it so not to really make a big deal about it. Just little bits at a time.Today, I worked more with Decker on driving. This time I stretched out the distance I had him drive. But really, it is just a tiny bit, just enough to give him a taste. He still does not know his flanks; so driving will be more difficult to teach h …

Last night, I decided to start teaching Decker how to shake hands. I was curious at how long it would take him to catch on. I used a high-value food, and initially he had a hard time concentrating, wanting the food badly. After several minutes, and driving my Border collies crazy, as they offered all kinds of behaviors that they have been taught, Decker was able to control his emotions toward the food. Once his emotions were under control, he was able to learn quickly. I thought it was a fl …

Today, my friend, Roland came over to start his pup, Jessy, on sheep. She has done a little with sheep, but he wanted to do a regular longer workout with her. A few days ago, he told me that she was about ready to start her. I know that he has been real anxious to start her, but has tried to be patient and let her grow up some.Kate and I sorted out some sheep for Roland and his dog, ensuring that I picked the docile ones. I am very choosy with my sheep, when I pick them out for somebody else …