Pros and Cons of Aussaliers

If you're considering adding a four-legged friend to your family, you might be considering the Aussalier. A unique crossbreed of the Australian Shepherd and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, the Aussalier is relatively fresh on the canine scene but is quickly gaining popularity.

Wonderfully affectionate and intelligent, this breed offers a variety of benefits – but also some potential drawbacks. To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a comprehensive, objective list of the pros and cons of Aussaliers, from their friendly disposition to the special care they require. So, without further ado, let's delve into the details! 

Pros of Aussaliers 

1. Uniquely new breed 

Few dogs can boast of being as recent a breed as the Aussalier. Introduced just over a decade ago in 2013, this mix between an Australian Shepherd and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel offers a unique blend of traits from both parents. Apart from being one of the newer kids on the blog, the Aussie and Cavalier ancestry that Aussaliers carry are relatively fresh too, dating back to the 19th, and 16th centuries, respectively.  

2. High sociable pups

When it comes to sociability, Aussaliers truly stand out. These pooches are renowned for being exceptionally friendly and approachable. They have an inherent ability to mingle and get along well with both humans and other pets. This trait is likely a result of their Australian Shepherd and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel lineage, both breeds being known for their gregariousness and easy-going nature.

3. Affectionate with children 

When it comes to finding a pet that's good with children, Aussaliers are an ideal choice. Known for their friendly and affectionate nature, they're patient and gentle with kids.  While Aussaliers are remarkable for their level-headedness around children, like any interaction between pets and children, supervision is recommended to ensure the safety and comfort of both parties. 

4. Get along well with other pets 

A significant plus of Aussaliers is their exceptional ability to get on well with other pets. With early socialization and correct introduction methods, Aussaliers can adapt well in a multi-pet household, nurturing an atmosphere of peace and harmony. Their flexible nature, inherited from both the Australian Shepherd and the Cavalier King Charles parents, makes them not only tolerant of other animals, but also adaptable to changing environments. 

5. Rich colors and patterns

Whether you adore the stark contrast of black and white or have a soft spot for red and tan mixes, Aussaliers have you covered. Their diverse coat colors and patterns, a direct influence of the Australian Shepherd and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel genes, offer a variety of appearances. Common coat colors range from black, blue merle, red, red merle, to the eye-catching tricolor - often mixed with white and tan markings. The merle patterns are especially stunning and inherited from their Aussie parent and may even inherit the blue eyes from their Aussie parent!

6. Excellent for active lifestyles

If you're someone who leads an active lifestyle, then the Aussalier may be a good fit for you. These dogs delight in activities such as games, walks, fetch, and even agility training. They're not just partners in your everyday adventures, but they can also serve as a source of motivation to keep you active, healthy and in the great outdoors.

Daily tasks become lighter and more enjoyable when shared with your cheerful and energetic Aussalier.

7. Intelligent and easy to train 

Aussaliers inherit an intelligence that's reminiscent of their Australian Shepherd lineage. This means that they are not only quick to grasp training procedures but also enjoy mentally stimulating activities such as obedience and agility training. So, if you're looking for a companion who can easily learn commands, tricks, and even apprehend complex tasks, an Aussalier might be what you need. It's important, however, to remember to incorporate positive reinforcement methods, making the training process more effective and enjoyable for this smart pooch. 

8. Low grooming requirements 

For potential owners worried about spending countless hours grooming their dog, Aussaliers are a fitting choice. They have a double coat, which requires brushing once or twice a week to maintain its health and reduce shedding. And when the occasional bath time comes calling, remember to use a gentle dog shampoo to maintain that sheen and health in their coat. This moderate grooming requirement makes Aussaliers a more manageable choice for those leading busy lifestyles.

9. Excellent health & longevity

One of the many benefits to consider when adopting an Aussalier is their good overall health. Generally speaking, this breed doesn’t have many inherent health issues and is renowned for its longevity. Aussaliers can live between 12-15 years, a long lifespan for a small to medium-sized dog. Potential owners can find comfort in knowing that Aussaliers are a hearty breed, capable of living a long, fulfilling life. However, like all breeds, proper care, regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet and exercise are vital to their overall well-being and longevity. 

Cons of Aussaliers 

1. Need for constant mental stimulation

While Aussaliers' intelligence is a boon when it comes to training, this same trait means they require plenty of mental stimulation to keep them content. Aussaliers can become bored and possibly destructive if they're not kept mentally engaged with stimulating toys, tasks, or human interaction. This breed might not be ideal for owners who don't have enough time to engage with their pets.

2. Potential for separation anxiety 

Highly sociable and loving in nature, Aussaliers can be prone to separation anxiety. If they are left alone for extended periods, these dogs are known to become restless and somewhat destructive. To mitigate this, consider planning your routine to include plenty of time for your pet, or investigate options like pet sitters or doggy daycare. 

3. Require substantial daily exercise 

True to their high-energy Australian Shepherd genes, Aussaliers require a substantial amount of daily exercise. A lack of enough physical activity can lead to behavioral issues such as boredom, anxiety, and destructive tendencies. It is essential to ensure you can provide your Aussalier with daily walks, joining your on a run, games, or fun activities to keep it healthy and happy. 

4. May display herding behavior 

Derived from their Australian Shepherd lineage, Aussaliers may exhibit a herding instinct, especially around smaller pets and children. This includes behaviors like chasing them around and nipping at their heels. While generally mild and manageable, this instinct may lead to nipping at the heels of children or other pets during play. This behavior can be mitigated with proper, consistent training, but it is something that potential owners should be aware of. 

5. Highly sensitive dogs 

One downside of Aussaliers' sharp intelligence and close bond with their owners is their sensitivity. They are emotionally responsive dogs that thrive on consistent schedules and calm environments. Dramatic changes in daily routines or overly loud settings may leave them feeling anxious. If you tend to live an unpredictable, high-stress lifestyle or frequently host boisterous parties, an Aussalier might not be the right pooch for you. 

6. Prone to weight gain 

Due to their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel lineage, Aussaliers are susceptible to weight gain if their diet is not carefully managed. An overweight Aussalier is at risk of developing numerous health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and joint disorders. Ensuring that your Aussalier exercises regularly and follows a balanced diet can help prevent excessive weight gain.

7. Limited breeding history and standardization 

The Aussalier is a relatively new breed, developed officially only in 2013. Because of this limited breeding history, Aussalier puppies may exhibit a greater range of physical and behavioral traits. This variability can make it difficult for prospective owners to predict the Aussalier's fully grown size, temperament, or exercise needs accurately. 

8. May inherit barking tendencies 

Aussaliers may inherit a propensity for barking from their Aussie parents. This breed often uses barking as a form of communication, which can become disruptive if not appropriately managed. Regular training from an early age can curb excessive barking but expect some level of vocalization inherent to the breed's nature. 

9. Potential health problems 

Aussaliers may inherit health conditions unique to the Aussie or Cavalier breeds. These conditions can include hip dysplasia, retinal atrophy, and several heart conditions. Although Aussaliers are generally healthy dogs, it is crucial to buy from reputable Aussalier breeder who administer health screenings to their breeding population, and to keep up with regular veterinary checks to ensure your pet’s long-term health.

10. Can be expensive to purchase 

Given their relatively new introduction and limited availability, Aussaliers can be quite costly to purchase. The price may vary depending upon the breeder's reputation, location, and the puppy's lineage, but generally is between $1,500 and $3,000. It's important to ensure you're buying from a reputable breeder to avoid potential health and behavioral issues in your pup.  

In Conclusion

In summary, Aussaliers make for incredible pets, especially for families or owners with an active lifestyle. Their affectionate, sociable, and easy-to-train nature combined with their unique look makes them irresistible. However, potential owners should be prepared for the breed's need for both physical and mental stimulation, the potential for separation anxiety, their herding behaviors, and sensitivities. 

They require modest maintenance compared to other breeds, and their loving and affectionate nature make them excellent companions. If you think an Aussalier dog will suit your lifestyle and you are willing to commit to their care, this hybrid breed can bring a lot of joy and companionship to your life!