If you’re think about adding an aussie/MAS to your household, there are important things to consider. While the breed is highly versatile and adaptable to most living situations, they will thrive in certain environments more so than others.
Where do you live? Aussies, even small ones, should generally not be apartment dogs. I won’t say it is impossible but it would require a lot of extra work to keep them happy. They are barky by nature and your neighbors may not appreciate this. They are also high energy dogs that need lots of exercise and attention. I would generally not recommend an aussie to anyone who doesn’t have a large yard at minimum. The most ideal environment is a rural one with lots of (properly fenced) acreage. However, this is not an option for many people. With proper attention, an aussie can do fine in a typical suburban home.
Do you have small children? Aussies are nippy and like to herd. If you have small children, the aussies are going to chase and nip at them until they’re taught not to. This isn’t aggression but it can still cause injury. I generally do not recommend aussies if you have children under about 7yrs old.
What other pets do you have? Aussies are generally able to adapt to living with many types of other animals. They may be prone to chasing cats or small dogs but this is generally fixable with early and consistent training. They should be good with livestock as well. Do you have an older dog that may be annoyed at wild, rambunctious puppy energy? That can cause issues in a home.
Our 2 aussies are friendly with other animals, as we feel this is a very important temperament trait. On the other hand, if you have no other dogs at all, that’s also something to think long and hard about. Dogs are pack animals and with the exception of certain individuals they are happiest with other dogs. Bonus: your second dog will wear out and exercise your aussie better than you could ever think about! I strongly advise against single-dog homes especially for herding breeds.
How active are you? Are you a couch potato? An aussie may not be a good fit. You don’t need to be a marathon runner, but you should want to participate in physical activity with your dog daily. This could be walking, hiking, playing ball or frisbee, or having your dog accompany you on farm chores. You also need to dedicate time EVERY day to training. Training will wear out an aussie faster than physical activity alone.
Aussies are not the best dog for first time dog owners. They really do require a lot of time and effort. Be prepared to deal with this for the next 10-15yrs before committing to a puppy.
Take a look at the video below. This happens EVERY night in our house multiple nights per week. Can you handle this? Are you prepared for your house to perpetually look as though a tornado has gone through it?