Meet Niko and Tinkerbelle, our Australian Shepherds. Aussies are actually native to Colorado. Those strikingly blue eyes are responsible for their nickname “ghost dogs.” They were the only breed hardy enough to herd cattle up the steep slopes of the Rocky Mountains every morning and back home each evening.
Five things to know about Aussies
1. Aussies are, simply put, brilliant. Their brilliance manifests itself in their willingness to work, their eagerness to play, and their ability to understand what you are saying. They invent games. Niko, for instance, invented SharkNiko, where he rises from the depths of a snow bank to challenge the snow blower to a duel.
SharkNiko, our crazy Aussie, chasing snow
Both of our Aussies watch television on cold nights. Their favorite is Beethoven 2.
I think it’s because it is a love story. Or all the barking. Or both.
Aussies are great watch dogs.
2. Aussies are protective. They are not at all vicious, but they definitely are territorial. Here, they herd our goats and zealously guard our yard from everything from the UPS man to crows. Seriously. They stand in the front yard, heads aloft, waiting to chase the crows away.
Aussies are wonderful with children.
3. Aussies are affectionate. They are the best family dogs we’ve ever had.They will snuggle with you whenever you’d like (and, if you’re as permissive as we are, whenever they’d like.) Given a chance, they’ll put the fur in furniture. But if your rules are more strict, they’ll simply warm your feet on a cold winter night.
4. Aussies are active. They’re always up for whatever might be happening. If you want to go for a ride, they’re game. Want to hike? They’ll find the leash. Throw a ball? They’ve died and gone to heaven. The only thing they’d suffer from is too much isolation – they’re very social – and too confined a space. You need a yard. And a dog park. And a commitment to play with your dog 30 minutes to an hour a day – minimum.
5. Aussies are beautiful. Absolutely gorgeous. If you own an Aussie, you are quite likely to be in possession of a dog who is better looking than you are. I know I am.
All dogs are wonderful, but, for me, there is no better dog in the world than our Aussies. They are brilliant, beautiful, endlessly entertaining members of our family.