Will Australian shepherd dogs make a good service dog?

Answer 1

Oh yes! Mine wants nothing more than to be in my lap or lay in bed with me. however, they require a lot of exercise! If they don't get it...you can forget about having quiet time with your dog when you get home-you'll have a disaster instead. Mine gets plenty of exercise during the day, so when I'm home, all she wants to do is snuggle.

Answer 2

Australian Shepherds are great dogs that have utmost devotion to their person/people. They are easily trainable, very responsive, loving, and caring. They are however very drivey, extremely active, and naturally weary of strangers. Whether or not an Australian Shepherd will make a good Service Dog will depend on the individual dog. They need very early socialization with strangers and other animals as well as new experiences. Without early socialization their ability to make a good SD is nearly impossible. They also won't fit every job. Because of their overall smaller size they cannot perform mobility work such as pulling a wheelchair or providing bracing. It takes approximately 18-24 months to fully train a SD so it is not something to take on lightly. If in America, depending on your state you may not have public access rights with a Service Dog In-Training. Go to Sources and Related Links (further down this page) to view more information by clicking on your individual state on the left hand side of that website and then click on Assistance Animal/Guide Dog Laws. Fully trained Service Dogs are protected under the Americans with Disability Act. It is important to know both state and Federal Laws in order to know your rights.

I personally have a SD that is an Australian Shepherd. I also breed Aussies and place as many of the good candidates as Service Dog or Diabetic Alert Dog prospects. They are a great dog and can make a great SD but are not for everyone and probably not for the novice handler. Best of luck on your journey.