RE: Austrain Shepards

Question
I was wondering what other kinds of jobs can an Austrian Shepard do besides herding. I don't have any kids, the neighboorhood I live in doesn't have any kids, and I don't know of anybody with any livestock. I have an active one. Right now she is chasing an empty pepsi container around the house. I take her for several walks during the day and I also play ball with her in the back yard. She also plays with the other dogs and she has friends houses she goes to in order to play with her friends. I don't know how to release this energy. I refuse to take her to a off leash park. I previously had two Austrain Shepards and took both of them to an off lease dog park. And both of them got into fights. I mainly got her for a companion. She is 5 months old. Spayed female. I understand that most of this enegy is just puuppy. But even her vet told me I have to find an outlet for this extensive energy. She is enrolled in an obedience class and I have been working with her at home on commands. She is alot calmer after a training session at the shopping center.

Answer
Since I don't have the bests of answers, perhaps I should have left your question in the question pool.  Five months is a tough time.  They already have much of their adult size, but are still a puppy and must be protected from joint straining high impact or excessive exercise.  The Asussies are intelligent enough for almost anything after they are a year or 2 old.  They are very successful as dog guides, but that doesn't help you.  Try long walks, fetch, and other games.  A walk where you meet other people and dogs is more stimulating than just walking.