Do Australian Shepherds Make Good Service Dogs? 6 Vet-Verified Reasons

Service dogs need to be reliable, intelligent, and confident in their job. Many dog owners and even a few experts wonder if Australian Shepherds make good service dogs. Yes, they do.

The Australian Shepherd has many traits that make it a great service dog, from a background in herding to a strong desire to work. There are quite a few reasons the breed is perfect for a service dog job. We’ll give you a few of those reasons below.

The 6 Reasons Why Australian Shepherds Make Good Service Dogs

1. Aussies Have Above-Average Intelligence

Australian Shepherds are some of the most intelligent dogs. The breed learns easily and quickly, something they will need in the service industry. They easily pick up new commands and quickly learn to perform new tasks.

2. Australian Shepherds Become Attached to Their Owners

A dog that doesn’t become attached to its owner wouldn’t make a good service dog. Aussies become attached to their owners and are extremely loyal. They love spending time with their pet parents, making them the perfect candidate to be service dogs. Once an Aussie becomes attached to its owner, it’s that person’s dog for life.

3. They Are Naturally Protective

Aussies are well known for being protective of their families and property. This is a trait that every service dog needs to have. Since Aussies have this protective streak naturally, they won’t have to be trained to protect their owner if the need arises.

4. Aussies Like to Work and Please Their Owners

Aussies aren’t one of the breeds that’s content to just lay up on the couch all day long, though they will if their owner wants to. They naturally desire to work and always strive to please their owners, making them the perfect service dog for many.

5. Australian Shepherds Are Brave

There isn’t much out there that will scare an Australian Shepherd. They are very courageous, which is another trait a service dog needs in spades. While this doesn’t mean that the Aussie isn’t afraid of anything, it does mean that if a scary situation presents itself or their owner is in danger; an Aussie will fight instead of running the other way.

6. Aussies Have Endless Energy

Aussies are known for their almost limitless energy. They have high levels of stamina needed by service dogs who could be working long hours. Aussies are known for being able to work all day long without getting tired.

Jobs for Aussies as Service Dogs

There are several service jobs that Aussies are suited for.

• Emotional support dog
• Therapy dog
• Sentry guard dog
• Watchdog
• Disability services dog

Final Thoughts

Australian Shepherds make great service dogs in therapy, for emotional support, or simply as a watchdog to your family. As with any breed, Aussies have unique personalities, and your dog might not be suited for the same service job as the neighbor’s Aussie might be. Be patient with your Aussie as you determine which job suits them best.

Featured Image Credit: Cottonbro, Pexels