Questiions About New to Us Australian Shepherd

by John Crouch
(Roseburg, Oregon)

We acquired a red merle Australian Shepherd this past January. She was raised on a ranch but circumstances made it necessary for previous family to place her in a shelter. She had puppies while there and is now a little over two years old. My questions:

1). She, Josie, is very protective at home. She barks and sometimes nips at visitors. We recently had guests for two days. She was very barky and especially so when visitors moved a chair or sudden movements. She would alternate between affectionate/attention seeking behavior and the barking. Question: what are her motivations, suggestions for training to calm her. She doesn't do this away from home.

2). In the past few weeks a new behavior has emerged. When walking her in the park she will slow down or even sit when she sees someone ahead. She usually resumes normal walk and passes the person without any further unusual response. What could be causing behavior? Why is this a developing behavior?

John

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