A.  Make sure that you and your vet realize that the Australian Shepherd is considered to be a Collie type breed and that they are extremely sensitive to the drug, "Ivermectin".  This drug can cause reactions in the Aussie severe enough to kill them before they can receive treatment.  I personally know of several horror stories of expensive show dogs being given Ivermectin and dying as a result.  To all you horse people ~ keep your syringes of horse wormer away from your dogs ~ the difference in price could cost you your dog's life.

A.  Aussies have what most consider to be a high energy level and most need a job (herding, Frisbee, flyball, agility, utility) to be happy.  This confuses some people in thinking that they don't make good house dogs.  I've found that my dogs have an endless amount of energy outside, constantly running, playing, herding, etc.  But once they come into the house they plop down in their spots and become very quiet dogs.  I've also discovered that many of the smaller breeds of dogs are much more energetic & demanding in the house than my Aussies have ever been.  Remember too, that the Aussies natural instinct is to herd ~ and they will consider cars fair game and HAVE to be taught against this very deadly activity! ~ so be forewarned.

A.  Aussies, like many breeds, that are raised with children are excellent with them.  They will become very protective of these children, so you would need to know your dog and his behavior around someone that he perceives is harming that child.  Aussies that are strong working dogs that haven't been raised around children will sometimes try herding children as they run in the yard.  ALWAYS watch any dog that has puppies - the mothering instinct is to guard and protect those puppies from EVERY one.