lcwmt
Songster
so sorry if posting that link seemed like guilting. It was not my intention. There has been a lot of posting on this thread that seemed to be about the "ideal example" of any given breed. Obviously there's more that goes into a well adjusted dog than its bloodline, or lack thereof. On first reading, the cited article did a pretty good job of discussing another point of view, as well as the real work that goes into a dog well suited for its people.
I've had AKC registered dogs, mixed breed dogs, rescues and mutts. Over the decades 3 of my dogs came into my life from their litters. Three were older pups, two were about a year old.
My dogs all get regular and appropriate medical attention, are not used for breeding (intentional or accidental) and are considered members of the household.
Like yours, they are expected to learn their manners and fit with the rest of the household.
Some have been easier than others.
Several of our dogs have been border collies, most have been retrievers. The dog I still mourn was an Aussie Flatcoat mix.
The original question was about herding dogs and chickens.
When we started the current flock we had an adult BC (a shelter adoption), the Flatcoat mix (a rescue) and a damaged Catahoula (she'd been seriously abused and had real issues). By the time the chicks were 5 months old it was obvious that they were in no danger from these dogs. The Catahoula was taught the chicks were hers. She is still protective of them.
So, chicks got to free range.
After the two older dogs died we got a BC out of its litter. He required a lot of work with the chickens as one of his built in drives was prey/play. He was from a working line, lived with the herd and other herding dogs and seemed to see the chickens as a feathered version of the sheep. Eventually, he'd have been okay.
Our current pup is 8 m.o. unknown breed but resembles a Beaucheron (appearance and disposition) but basically is just a huge sweet mutt. She is not 100% reliable yet but getting there.
I've known Aussies that were fabulous, my partner has known Aussies that were not. He does not trust the breed.
I've known Goldens and Labs that were maniacal, mine were mellow. Have been around a few Corgis - great little dogs, one lives with a young family, the other was companion to an aging widower.
I think you were looking for feedback, don't know if you got it <G> You seem to have a deep affection for the Aussies. Why not start looking, with the intention of finding the right one - they are all unique to themselves and their situation. good luck whatever you decide.
