Aussie Behavior

Question
Hi Anne, We have a 1 1/2 yr old Australian Shepard who has been a fun loving and wonderful pet, however, I recently went to Starbucks and left him outside for a few minutes while I purchase coffee. A young man came up to pet him and he bit him! I was really surprised. Luckily the man was understanding and didn't get freaked out. Our dog has growled and snapped at a couple friends too which is odd since he knows them. He's been around a lot of people he doesn't know well either and has been fine. Any ideas on how to stop this unpredicatable behavior?

Answer
Firstly, don't ever leave him unattended again, especially tied, and especially among strangers.  That usually exacerbates any aggression problems.  Whenever a dog begins to suddenly exhibit aggression, my first suggestion is always to take the dog to a vet and get a complete exam, plus complete thyroid panel (have the sample sent to Hemopet in Michigan).  Thyroid problems can contribute to aggressive behavior.  You should also be prepared for the fact that some Aussies, once mature, do not love everyone, and in fact, that quality made them wonderful farm guardians once upon a time.  The breed standard still calls for "strong herding and guarding" instinct, and while the standard doesn't suggest that dogs should be aggressive, some of them will guard you and the space around you (and them) very insistently.  What he probably did was a "herding nip" intended to stop movement, or to keep the person at a distance from him, or from where he thought you went.  If your dog is exceptionally well socialized, he still could develop a desire NOT to interact with strangers once mature.  If he has good bite inhibition and did not break skin, that's good.  If not, you should always assume that a bite is possible, even as you work to prevent.  I have a very guardy Aussie and while she accompanies me to a lot of places, I have no problem walking her in a Gentle Leader, or even a muzzle, so that I always have control of her mouth;-)

I'm so glad you are opting to hire a trainer.  Please do try to get someone who is familiar with the breed, and uses positive training or clicker training.  These dogs don't do very well with harsh treatment, although they are capable of learning quickly with the right person.  Also, keep in mind that some of this behavior is "hard wired" and the dog may not be 100% trustworthy despite the level of obedience you are able to achieve.