For many potential Australian Shepherd owners adopting a rescue Aussie is a favorable alternative to getting a puppy.
Advantages to getting an older dog typically include being able to forgo many of the training basics that all puppies need.
It is fairly typical to adopt an Aussie is already housebroken and will walk well on a leash.
Another advantage in getting a rescue dog is that often the rescue organization has spent time working with the Aussie which could save you hours of training time later.
In most areas adoption can be done either by going to a local animal rescue shelter, or contacting an Aussie specific rescue group.
For individuals specifically seeking an Aussie adopting through an Aussie rescue group has several benefits.
Rescue groups are typically non-profit associations whose members are volunteers who have a passion of working with Aussies.
These volunteers are dedicated members who love working with Australian Shepherds and their aim is to introduce the abandoned and orphaned dogs into homes which they will be comfortable in.
Most of these dogs either come from shelters or are given to rescue groups from owners who are unable to take care of the dogs themselves.
Each individual rescue group typically decides exactly what type of Aussies they will take.
Many rescue groups will only accept pure breed dogs rather than mixed dogs.
However, vicious dogs are typically not accepted by most groups since taking care of them might be problematic to the rescue team and the potential new owner.
Before being able to adopt one of these Aussies, you will have to fill out an application form and the rescue association will typically find out if your home is ready to own the dog.
This will likely be conducted by a site visit from someone in the rescue group.
Things that are looked for often include a tall enough fence if you have a back yard and other dangers that may be present for a dog.
If your home meets the criteria for the group then the chances of you owning one of the Aussies will likely be very good.
However, the more specific you are on the type of Aussie that you want in terms of color, sex, and size then the longer it will likely take to get a successful match.
Often these dogs are given to homes on a first come first serve basis.
With that in mind is best to act quickly if a dog that you like becomes available.
Before you decide whether adopting an Aussie is the right move, you should ask yourself a couple of questions.
First, you need to be sure you have the time necessary to properly spend with your new friend to bring them into your home.
Aussies have a lot of energy and require a good deal of exercise to keep them from getting bored.
Aussies are also a very bright breed and could develop challenging behavior problems if they're not trained properly.
However, if you can do all this successfully, then you will be truly rewarded by providing a home for a wonderful dog.