Replied by Momo's Mom (Atlanta, GA) on 06/30/2009
Shalu, You do not say where your dog came from or if it may have been abused by previous owners. If so, it would explain its fearful nature and he/she will need a lot of love and patience from you to overcome it. I do not understand why you would want your dog to be aggressive and there is never any need to train a dog to attack - if you form a bond with your dog, it will naturally attack anyone who threatens you.
When you say you sent it to a training center, do you mean you went with the dog for training sessions? Or do you mean you sent the dog away for two months alone? I would never do this and if so, it probably only created more fear and confusion for him/her.
Something that may help as well: An Australian Shepherd-type would be a herding dog which is a working dog and they need something to do. They need a LOT of exercise and if they do not get enough, they can become mischievous and filled with anxiety. They are also very intelligent and would probably enjoy learning frisbee or obstacle-course type activities that you could do together for exercise and pleasure. They like to learn.
If your husband hates the dog, this is probably another source of the dog's fear. If properly cared for, these are very gentle, loyal and loving dogs.
