Australian Shepherds Breeders

 Even though Australian Shepherds are quickly becoming one of the countries favorite dogs, finding a knowledgeable breeder with high-quality puppies for purchase can be challenging.  So how can you find a really good breeder?   

In order to find Australian Shepherd breeders, visit dog shows.  This will give you opportunities to talk with owners of this breed.  You will receive excellent tips on top breeders, and you’ll also receive advice on which breeders to stay away from.  This is also a great opportunity to talk about Australian Shepherd puppies and learn a little more about the breed in general.  You will most likely be able to find breeders at these shows as well.  Make sure to ask for business cards and follow up on possible leads.  It is very unlikely that the breeder will have a litter available at the moment, but talking to breeders over the telephone gives you a chance to establish a relationship with the breeder.  Eventually, you will be able to find a good breeder who either has available puppies in his litter or is expecting puppies in the near future.   

When assessing breeders, you’re looking for someone who possesses a commitment to the Aussie breed.  If the breeder appears too anxious to have you stop by to visit his litter and pressures you to make a quick decision, avoid him.  There might be something wrong with his puppies, such as an illness.  The Australian Shepherd is susceptible to the development of hip dysplasia.  Hip dysplasia is characterized by a weakening and deterioration of the hip and eventually leads to an arthritic condition.  It is a painful and very often a crippling disease that can be genetic in origin.   Irresponsible breeders have no problems breeding dogs that have not gone through the proper testing for genetic problem such as this.   

Typically, a good breeder will not only be willing to answer your questions, but will have a few questions prepared for you.  They love to talk about their breed of dog and want to make sure that their puppies are going to a home that is not only loving, but will be raising the Aussie in a responsible manner.  Don't be offended by the number of questions he may ask, and don’t take offense at the nature of them.  Good breeders want what’s best for their dogs and understand what it takes to care for an Australian Shepherd properly.  A good breeder will also not mind discussing their breeding pair with you, and what sort of shows they have won.  Be prepared to visit the litter and spend time with the breeding pair.  This allows you to get a feel for the personality traits that your puppy will inherit.   

If the breeder’s top priority is to find their puppies a loving home, you know you’ve found a good breeder.  They should also be willing to take the puppy back without a reimbursement if, for some reason, you can no longer take care of your puppy.  Over all, Australian Shepherds attract a certain type of person, most of whom really care about their dogs and understand the needs of an Aussie.  Therefore, finding a good Australian Shepherd breeder might be easier than you think.