Australian Shepherd

Professional Australian Shepherd Training in Columbus, Ohio

Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in America and gained popularity through ranching and rodeo work. These highly intelligent, agile working dogs require specialized training to manage their intense herding instincts and high energy levels. Off Leash K9 Columbus is an Australian Shepherd trainer in Ohio helping owners develop proper outlets for the natural drive of these dogs while teaching essential boundaries and control.

Australian Shepherd Characteristics & Behaviors

Developed in America, named for the Australian sheep they herded
Extremely intelligent and highly trainable working dogs
Natural herding instincts, including nipping behaviors
Stay low to the ground while herding, more agile than other herding breeds
High energy levels requiring proper outlets
Strong drive that needs both engagement and control
Tendency to be “turned on” by movement, especially with young children
More focused on herding work compared to protective instincts
Require both mental and physical stimulation

Our YouTube Channel Has Dozens of Australian Shepherd Success Stories

Why Choose Off Leash K9 for Australian Shepherd Training in Columbus

Understanding of natural herding drives and instincts
Experience balancing drive engagement with control
Focus on proper outlets rather than suppression
Expertise in managing common herding behaviors
Training methods that teach both activity and calm on command
Knowledge of managing interactions with children and families
Comprehensive understanding of working and herding breed needs

“We want to understand what the dog is all about genetically so that we can teach owners how to satisfy that besides just constantly suppressing it. We’re not going to be able to take the herd out of your Australian Shepherd, but we can teach you how you can utilize it and then teach you how you can control it.” –Dylan Beck, Training Director

Available Training Programs

Marker Mastery Program

Designed for puppies under 6 months, focusing on fundamentals and preventing future issues.

Basic Obedience Package

Four lessons focusing on core commands and behaviors.

Aggression/Anxiety Package

Eight lessons addressing more complex behavioral issues.

Board and Train (1 week option & 2 week option)

Intensive training where dogs stay with trainers in their homes.

Advanced Lessons

Additional training sessions are available after completing basic packages.

5 Keys to Success With Columbus Aussie Dog Training

Building a proper relationship between dog and owner
Ensuring adequate physical and mental exercise
Consistent obedience training starting at 6 months
Teaching proper drive "capping" (on/off switch)
Developing lasting boundaries and structure

Australian Shepherd Success Story

One of our trainers worked with a rescued Australian Shepherd who initially struggled with severe confidence issues. At 1.5 years old, the dog was extremely fearful, growling and barking at strangers, and showing highly submissive behavior. Through patient, customized training sessions focused on confidence building and proper socialization, we helped transform a seemingly "hopeless" situation into a success story. The dog began showing remarkable progress, coming out of her shell with each training session. This case exemplifies our approach to Australian Shepherd training–understanding each dog's unique challenges and building their confidence through consistent, positive training methods.

Dylan Beck

Training Director

Frequently Asked Questions About Aussie Dog Training

Are Australian Shepherds good family dogs?

Aussies can be excellent dogs for active families who understand their needs but require proper management, especially with young children. Their herding instincts need to be properly channeled through training and exercise.

When should training begin?

Formal obedience training for Australian Shepherds should start at 6 months, but early socialization and proper play engagement should begin immediately. Early training is crucial for preventing behavioral issues.

How do you handle herding behaviors?

Rather than purely suppressing herding instincts, we provide herding dog training in Columbus that focuses on teaching appropriate outlets while developing the ability to “turn off” these behaviors when needed. This balanced approach leads to better long-term success in training and helps these intelligent, driven animals thrive in their homes.

What happens if an Australian Shepherd doesn't get proper training?

Without proper outlets and training, these dogs can develop anxiety and aggression. Their high drive needs appropriate channels, or it may manifest in problematic behaviors that can make it difficult to integrate the dog in a home.

How much exercise do Australian Shepherds need?

As high-energy working dogs, Aussies need significant physical activity and mental stimulation every day. Exercise requirements vary by individual dog, but all require proper outlets for their natural drives. Australian Shepherd obedience training isn’t enough for these animals.

Take the First Step Towards a Well-Behaved Puppy

Don’t wait until it’s too late to address behavioral issues. Our Puppy Training Consultation program gives your puppy a head start to becoming a happy, obedient adult dog.

Ready to start your puppy’s training journey? Contact us today or call (740) 400-0236 for a free consultation.

Interested in more advanced training? Check out our Board and Train program for intensive, personalized training.

For those dealing with more challenging behaviors, we also offer Aggressive Dog Training services.

Learn more about our training philosophy and methods to understand why we consistently achieve outstanding results with our canine clients.