There isn't anything wrong with pointy ears, per se. It is just that the AKC doesn't find erect ears to be the traditional ear form for this breed and therefore marks dogs off if they have this trait. As far as health is concerned, it really doesn't matter what type of ear your puppy has.
As a general rule, a dog's level of attention can be determined by watching their ears: Erect ears facing forward indicate that they're engaged, and slightly pulled-back ears signal that they're feeling friendly; but dog ears laid tightly back against the head suggest a fearful or timid reaction.
Australian Shepherds are known for their fierce loyalty with one person, that doesn't mean every Shepherd will act like that. Some Shepherds might not build a particularly strong bond with any one family member. Others might like one of you more than another, but they don't sit on you to show it.
Aussies can be very clingy. They crave human companionship and love being included in pretty much everything you do, including being involved in all family activity. Since they require an active lifestyle, they will want to join in everything and anything that is going on around them.
Australian Shepherds are relatively easy to care for when it comes to grooming. They only need to be brushed once or twice a week, and they only need to be bathed every few months. Australian Shepherd's also shed moderately, so they may not be the best dog breed for those with allergies.
Every puppy is different. The ears can first go up at any time from four weeks old to never. If the ears are going to stand naturally they would be up between four and seven months of age and after her adult teeth have come in. It is not unusual to see the ears go up and down during the teething process.
What are Aussie ears supposed to look like? The breed standards describe a moderate sized, triangular ear with a slightly rounded tip that sits high on the head. The ears may break forward or to the side (“rose” ear) when at attention.
The Ears: When your dog's ears are forward, it means the dog is paying close attention to something or is curious. When your dog's ears are flat against its head, it represents fear or aggression. Ears way back but not close to its head may mean that your dog is feeling sad.
Having ears back is often a welcoming gesture from your dog. They are trying to get close to you without looking threatening. It is a friendly demonstration accompanied by a happy-looking face and loose body language. They feel comfortable, and they would try to make you feel the same way with them.
A lot of this behavior can come from boredom. They may sit on you or your head simply because they like the way you react to it and they simply have nothing better to do. If this is the case then supplying them with some toys or other things to occupy their time may find you the relief you are seeking.
Splooting is a great stretch for the animals' hips. Splooting also allows the animal to cool themselves by pressing their belly into the ground or against tile floors. Owners may notice that their pets sploot more often when they are younger.
In modern times, cropping is mainly performed for purely cosmetic reasons. Many people like the look, believing it makes the dog look fierce, or more natural (like wolves that have upright ears).
Dogs that have double or water-repellant coats, like Australian Shepherds, Siberian Huskies, Akitas, Labrador Retrievers, and Newfoundlands, may only need baths every few months. Bathing them more often than necessary can cause dry skin.
If your dog is licking themselves, you, or objects excessively, to the point that it seems like a self-stimulatory behavior, this might be a sign of anxiety, boredom, or pain. Obsessive self-licking can also be a sign of allergies or other health problems.
Australian Shepherds are very active dogs. Most likely, they won't want to cuddle because they're so active. If you wanted a lap dog, an Australian Shepherd probably wasn't the best choice.
– Be direct. Australians are known for being direct, so if you want to get their attention, it's best just to come out and say what you're thinking. – Make sure you have a sense of humour. Australians are known for their sense of humour, so if you can make them laugh, you're sure to win them over.
Do Australian Shepherds like living indoors? Despite their working shepherd dog DNA, Aussie dogs love to cuddle up on the sofa and be part of home and family life. In fact, they are incredibly sociable, family-orientated dogs, and so they should live, eat, and sleep indoors with you.
While adaptable, the loyal and devoted Australian Shepherd does best with its people nearby. They are often demanding of attention and they do not like to be left alone.
“It's one way a dog shows affection. Think of your dog sitting on your feet as the canine version of a hug or cuddle.” Puppies and adult dogs of any age, size, sex, or breed choose this place to plop because they want to stay close to their new owners.