At What Age Do Australian Shepherds Calm Down? (Explained!)

There’s no doubt that Australian Shepherds are high-energy dogs. They love to run and play, and they never seem to tire. But at what age do Australian Shepherds calm down? Do they ever stop running?

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the average lifespan of an Australian Shepherd and when they typically start to slow down. We’ll also discuss whether or not they ever completely calm down.

Key Takeaway

• Australian Shepherds typically begin to calm down and mature between the ages of 2 and 3 years, though the exact age can vary depending on the individual dog.
• To calm down an Australian Shepherd, you can employ methods such as teaching them commands, ignoring their bad habits, gentle massages, using calming herbal supplements, engaging in mental stimulation activities like tracking, and teaching them a ‘down stay’ command especially when guests are around.

At What Age Do Australian Shepherds Calm Down?

The Australian Shepherd will calm down when it reaches adulthood which is between 18 and 24 months of age. However, if their energy doesn’t just disappear, they learn to behave better and become easier to control. 

Calming down is entirely individual. As in people, Australian Shepherds have different personalities. Some dogs will calm down more; others won’t.

More than a few Australian Shepherds reach maturity later. Also, the dog’s behavior reflects its owner’s way of dealing with the dog. How you treat your dog will play a significant role in the calming down process.

Obedience training is known to help Australian Shepherds to calm down.

Aussies need both mental and physical simulations. They need to run, explore, play, and work. Australian Shepherds thrive when outside. Daily activities are a must when it comes to this dog.

Suppose you do not have the time to exercise your Aussie properly. In that case, the chances of the dog calming down will significantly decrease. That energy has to be funneled in a proper direction.

Otherwise, your Aussie Shepherd will misbehave. 

The Aussie is a Velcro dog. This dog needs to be by its human at all times. Leaving your Australian Shepherd bored or unattended won’t do any good. Sure, they can be left alone for a couple of hours.

Any longer than this, and the Aussie will get anxious and bored. Accustomed to activity, your dog might search for fun by itself. Trust me; you would want to avoid this. 

How To Calm Down an Australian Shepherd?

There isn’t a guarantee that every Australian Shepherd will calm down at the same age or when they reach adulthood. Some Aussies are just unable to do this naturally and might need assistance from their pet parents and veterinarians. This activity might be time-consuming, but the result will be rewarding.

Exercise is a great way to calm down your Australian Shepherd. Aussies require at least one hour of daily activities. Suppose you can allow yourself more time, the better.

Younger Australian Shepherds need even more exercise. If you have a yard, it might help a lot. Ensure the yard is well protected, with no holes in the fence. Aussies are curious dogs. They would like to see what’s outside, so escaping is not excluded.

However, just letting your Australian Shepherd run in the yard won’t do it. Aussies are social, and they love humans. Although they’re brilliant, these dogs still need to be instructed.

They observe and learn. As an owner, you are solely responsible for their education and well-being. If you lack time to exercise your Aussie, maybe you should get another pet.

Herding is one of the issues you will run into. Australian Shepherds were bred to herd. They love work, and they need it.

If not properly exercised and trained, the Aussie will go back to its primal instincts and try and herd everything around them. Children, cats, and other dogs may be its herding subjects.

Address this issue early, during puppyhood. Nobody likes a dog that will bite and nip kids and animals.

The more energy your Aussie releases, the calmer it will be. Never use yelling or hitting when teaching these dogs how to behave. Instead, use positive reinforcement and food awards.

Your dog must learn its place but in a friendly way. Wear it off, reward it when it behaves, and the Aussie will return with endless love and loyalty.

Outdoor Activities To Calm Down an Australian Shepherd

When it comes to fun activities, the possibilities are endless. Do you like hiking? No problem, the Aussie will be the perfect companion for you. Running is an excellent activity for spending some energy. Tie the leash to your bicycle, and the Aussie will follow you. They are also excellent swimmers, so feel free to take your dog to the beach. And if you feel tired, just take your Aussie for a long walk. That will do the job as well.

The Aussies love being outside. They are working dogs meant to be outdoors. Your Australian Shepherd would love to run errands for you. Find some job for the Aussie to do, and watch it excel at it. If you do not have livestock to herd, don’t worry. There are plenty of tasks your Australian Shepherd can do.

Australian Shepherds must be socialized at an early age. Regular visits to the dog park are a great way to achieve socialization. Introduce your dog to as many people and animals as you can. This will help them calm down and decrease their herding desire at the same time.

Aussies excel at all canine sports. They are known to win regularly at agility competitions. Besides this, you can also teach your Australian Shepherd to play fetch, Frisbee, hide and seek, and many other games. The Aussie is an intelligent dog. They are able to learn plenty of things. Just point your dog in the right direction. With time, it will calm down.

Indoor Activities To Calm Down an Australian Shepherd

Normally, you can not be outside 24/7. There will be days when you won’t be able to take your dog outside for as long as the Aussie would like to. This however does not mean you just need to let your dog roam around the house by itself. Remember, the energy is still there. You must find indoor activities that will calm down your pup.

A good idea for an indoor activity is puzzle toys. Aussies love to be mentally challenged. Give your dog a puzzle toy, and it will keep it occupied for a while.

Clever as they are, the Aussie will solve the puzzle for sure. Another thing you can do is play find the toy. Hide the toy in the apartment, and let the dog find it.

Aussies are great at performing tricks. They learn quickly and are capable of entertaining your guests. You can use your time inside to teach your dog some new tricks.

If trained so, your Australian Shepherd is even intelligent enough to call your kids for supper. The possibilities are endless. It is entirely up to you to decide which direction your dog will go says Spirit Dog Training.

Do Australian Shepherds Calm Down After Neutering?

While some Australian Shepherds may exhibit a decrease in certain behaviors after neutering, it’s not guaranteed to calm them down entirely as their energy levels and temperament are also influenced by factors like age, training, and individual personality.

There is a lot of debate surrounding the topic of neutering and its effects on dogs. Some people believe that once a dog has been neutered, it will become lazy and calm down significantly. Others think that this surgery actually has the opposite effect, making dogs more active and excitable.

As with any surgery, there are always risks involved. If you are considering having your Australian Shepherd neutered, be sure to discuss the pros and cons of the procedure with your veterinarian. They will be able to advise you on whether or not it is the right decision for your dog.

In conclusion, while most Australian Shepherds do seem to calm down after being neutered, it is important to remember that every animal is different. If you have any concerns about how your dog will react post-surgery, please consult with your veterinarian.

Are Australian Shepherds High Strung?

Australian Shepherds, including the miniature versions, can be high-strung and energetic, often requiring both mental and physical stimulation to keep them calm and happy, although individual temperaments can vary.

This is a question that many people ask, and the answer is not always clear. Some people say that Australian Shepherds are high-strung because they are bred to be working dogs.

They need plenty of exercise and stimulation in order to stay calm and happy. Others say that Australian Shepherds are not high-strung at all, and are actually one of the calmer breeds of dog.

If you are considering getting an Australian Shepherd, it is important to do your research so that you can find out if this breed will be a good fit for your lifestyle.

Some things that you should keep in mind if you are considering an Australian Shepherd include:

• Aussies need plenty of exercise. If they do not get enough, they may become destructive or even aggressive.
• They need a lot of mental stimulation. This can be provided through training, obedience classes, agility courses, and other activities.
• They are working dogs, and as such, they may not do well in a home where they are left alone for long periods of time. If you work long hours or travel often, an Australian Shepherd may not be the right dog for you.

FAQs

Q: At what age do Australian Shepherds calm down?

A: Australian Shepherds are known for their high energy levels, and they usually start to calm down around 2 to 3 years of age. However, each dog is different, and some may take longer to reach their calmer stage.

Q: How can I help my Australian Shepherd to calm down?

A: There are several ways to help your Australian Shepherd calm down. Regular exercise, such as daily walks or playtime in a fenced yard, can help burn off excess energy. Mental stimulation, like puzzle toys or obedience training, can also help tire them out. Providing a calm and structured environment and sticking to a consistent routine can also contribute to your dog’s overall calmness.

Q: Is it normal for Australian Shepherds to be hyperactive?

A: Australian Shepherds are known for their high energy levels and can be naturally active and energetic. However, excessive hyperactivity could be a sign of underlying issues, such as lack of exercise, anxiety, or boredom. If your Australian Shepherd’s hyperactivity is causing problems or seems out of control, it’s recommended to consult with a veterinarian or professional dog trainer to address the issue.

Q: Can Australian Shepherds adapt to apartment living?

A: Australian Shepherds are active dogs that require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. While they may adapt to apartment living with the right care and attention, it is generally not the most suitable environment for them. Australian Shepherds thrive in homes with large fenced yards or access to open spaces where they can run and play freely.

Q: Do Australian Shepherds get along with children?

A: Australian Shepherds are generally good with children when properly socialized and trained. They are known to be loyal and protective, making them great family dogs. However, it’s important to supervise interactions between dogs and children to ensure everyone’s safety. Teaching children how to properly interact with dogs and setting boundaries for both the dog and child is essential.

Q: Are Australian Shepherds good with other pets?

A: Australian Shepherds can get along well with other pets if they are properly socialized from a young age. They have a herding instinct, so it’s important to introduce them to other pets, including cats or smaller animals, in a controlled and supervised manner. Early socialization and training can help Australian Shepherds coexist harmoniously with other pets in the household.

Q: Do Australian Shepherds require a lot of grooming?

A: Australian Shepherds have a dense double coat that requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and mat-free. Weekly brushing is recommended to remove loose hair and prevent tangles. During shedding seasons, daily brushing may be required to manage the shedding. They also need regular nail trimming, teeth brushing, and ear cleaning to maintain their overall health and hygiene.

Q: How trainable are Australian Shepherds?

A: Australian Shepherds are highly intelligent and trainable dogs. They excel in various activities such as obedience training, agility, and herding competitions. They are eager to please their owners and enjoy having a job to do. Consistent positive reinforcement training methods, along with patience and consistency, can help Australian Shepherds thrive in training.

Q: Are Australian Shepherds prone to any health issues?

A: Like all dog breeds, Australian Shepherds are prone to certain health issues. Some common health problems that can affect Australian Shepherds include hip dysplasia, epilepsy, cataracts, and various genetic disorders. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, proper exercise, and responsible breeding practices can help reduce the risk of these health issues.

Q: How long do Australian Shepherds live?

A: On average, Australian Shepherds have a lifespan of about 12 to 15 years. However, with proper care, nutrition, exercise, and regular veterinary check-ups, some Australian Shepherds can live even longer.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, Australian Shepherds typically start to calm down as they mature, generally around the age of 2-3 years old, although this can vary depending on the individual dog’s personality and lifestyle.

However, due to their high-energy nature and need for mental and physical stimulation, they may still retain a degree of their youthful energy into their adult years.