Australian Retrievers are a mixed breed of Golden Retriever and Australian Shepherd. The Golden Aussies are known for their intelligence, friendly nature, and loyalty. The Australian Retriever is a cute dog breed that can steal your heart as it comes in various colors.
Pros of Australian Retrievers
Australian Retrievers make wonderful pets as they inherit traits from the two most beloved breeds, Golden Retrievers and Australian Shepherds.
Golden Aussies frequently have eye-catching coats that blend the distinctive patterning of the Australian Shepherd with the lushness of the Golden Retriever. They are unique pets since their looks are just as intriguing as their personalities.
Intelligent and Trainable
Australian Retrievers inherit high intelligence from the Australian Shepherd and Golden Retriever breeds. This makes them quick learners, adaptable, and capable of mastering commands, tricks, and specialized tasks, such as therapy or service work. Structured training helps them to socialize well.
Energetic and Fun
With a mix of energy and enthusiasm, Australian Retrievers are perfect for active individuals or families. They excel in outdoor activities like hiking, running, or playing fetch and make excellent companions for those who love adventure.
Great with Kids and Other Pets
Their friendly demeanor and gentle temperament make them excellent family pets. If you have children and other animals, it harmonizes easily and strengthens bonds with them.
Minimal Maintenance
Australian Retrievers are hassle-free dogs in terms of training and general health issues. Therefore they understand and obey commands easily. They need brushing and general grooming twice a week, which can be done by working pet parents.
General Health
The Golden Aussies are generally a healthy and energetic breed. You should take your Australian Retriever for routine check-ups to maintain good health. Specific health issues include hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and cataracts.
Cons of Australian Retrievers
Though Golden Aussies are lovable and friendly, you should check out the possible challenges before owning them.
Highly Energetic Breed
Australian Retrievers are highly energetic and need to shell out their energy in various activities. They should be taken for hiking, running, playing fetch, or involving in other vigorous sporty activities. This breed is suitable for an active family that can spend nearly 30-60 minutes daily with them.
High Separation Anxiety
The breed is very loyal, affectionate, and friendly with humans, and this may lead to separation anxiety as well. This may result in whining, excessive barking, and destructive behavior. You should acclimatize your Australian Retrievers for living alone for a shorter duration under positive training
Possessiveness
Australian Retrievers are deeply bonded with their owners and hence quite possessive about them. Moreover, these are also possessive about small objects such as toys or beds. Their behavior can be modified with early socialization and training.
Shedding
Similar to Australian Shepherds, Australian Retrievers shed somewhat all year long, with the spring and fall seeing the most shedding. Regular grooming might help control their shedding.
Space Requirements
These are highly energetic dogs and hence require proper space for running and playing. If you are living in a compact house, then you may not give them the right environment for shelling out their energy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: Are Australian Retrievers calmer than Australian Shepherds?
Answer: Yes, they have a calmer demeanor because of Golden Retriever lineage.
Question 2: What is the lifespan of an Australian Retriever?
Answer: They live for an average of 10-13 years.
Question 3: What is the cost of an Australian Retriever puppy?
Answer: They cost nearly $700-$1000. However, if you take it from a rescue group, it may cost less.
Conclusion
Active families that can spend time with their dogs are the ideal fit for Golden Aussies. You should assess both positive and negative aspects before owning a pet.
