Dogs Training Blog

Hi there, I have a 9 month old neutered male miniature Australian shepherd. He is a wonderful dog, smart, active, and kind. He is however very shy and nervous. There are two Labs next door that bark constantly at him and he is developing a phobia about being outside, i now have to pick him up and carry him outside to go to the washroom, when he’s finished he runs back to the door and begs to come in. He also is very nervous around strange dogs….but only certain ones! I have observed that the more dominant the dog is the more he likes them, if the dog is unsure of itself at all he becomes nervous and will hide behind me a growl low. He has tried snapping at dogs that come right up in his face, I do not know how to help this behaviour.I know that Aussies and herding breeds are fairly sensitive, Aussies are naturally reserved but I would like to be able to take him out and not feel scared. Please anyone with Aussie experience, herding breed experience and dog training experience, I would love your help and input. I would like positive techniques that help him build trust and confidence! Any of those who have negative comments please post them elsewhere.Thank you so much!Could people please stop jumping to conclusions about miniature Australian shepherds and posting their negative comments. Mini Aussie’s are pure bred, they have pedigrees, health testing, registries, and shows. I stand behind that fact that mini aussies are just smaller versions of the standard aussie. Those of you who disagree, please do not comment. I am really not interested in having post rude comments about subjects they don’t know enough information about.I bought him from a reputable breeder, not some pet store/puppy mill/or backyard breeder!

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