Frequently Asked Question

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the adoption process like?

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Our adoption process begins with an application to help us understand your lifestyle and what you're looking for in an Australian Shepherd. Once approved, we'll discuss available puppies or upcoming litters. We provide regular updates with photos and videos as your puppy grows. When your puppy is ready to go home (typically around 8-10 weeks), we'll schedule pickup or delivery. Each puppy comes with health records, a care package, and lifetime breeder support.

How much exercise do Australian Shepherds need?

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Australian Shepherds are high-energy dogs that require significant daily exercise. Adult Aussies typically need at least 1-2 hours of physical activity per day, which can include walks, runs, hiking, or playing fetch. They also need mental stimulation through training, puzzle toys, or dog sports. Without adequate exercise and mental challenges, they can become bored and develop destructive behaviors. They're perfect for active families or individuals.

Are Australian Shepherds good with children and other pets?

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Yes! Australian Shepherds are typically excellent family dogs and can be great with children when properly socialized. They're loyal, protective, and affectionate. However, their herding instinct may cause them to try to herd children or other pets by nipping at heels, which can be managed with training. Early socialization with children and other animals is important. With proper introduction and training, they usually get along well with other dogs and can even coexist peacefully with cats.

What health testing do you perform on breeding dogs?

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We take health testing very seriously. All our breeding dogs undergo comprehensive health screenings including hip and elbow evaluations, eye examinations (CERF), and genetic testing for common Australian Shepherd conditions such as MDR1, CEA, and HSF4. We only breed dogs that have passed all health clearances to ensure we're producing the healthiest puppies possible. Complete health documentation is provided with each puppy.

How big do Australian Shepherds get?

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Australian Shepherds are medium-sized dogs. Males typically stand 20-23 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 50-65 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at 18-21 inches tall and 40-55 pounds. They usually reach their full adult size between 12-16 months of age, though they may continue to fill out and develop muscle mass until around 2 years old.

What colors and patterns do Australian Shepherds come in?

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Australian Shepherds come in four main colors: black, red (liver), blue merle, and red merle. These base colors can be combined with white markings and copper (tan) points. Merle patterns create a mottled, marbled appearance in the coat. Eye color can vary widely, including brown, blue, amber, or even two different colored eyes (heterochromia), which is completely normal and healthy in this breed.

How much grooming do Australian Shepherds require?

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Australian Shepherds have a medium-length double coat that requires regular grooming. Weekly brushing is essential to prevent matting and reduce shedding, though during their shedding seasons (typically spring and fall), daily brushing is recommended. They don't require frequent baths unless they get particularly dirty. Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care are also important parts of their grooming routine.

Are Australian Shepherds easy to train?

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Australian Shepherds are highly intelligent and generally very trainable, consistently ranking among the smartest dog breeds. They're eager to please and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. However, their intelligence means they need consistent mental stimulation and can become bored with repetitive training. They excel in obedience, agility, herding trials, and other dog sports. Early socialization and training are important to channel their energy and intelligence positively.

What is included with each puppy?

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Each puppy comes with a comprehensive care package including: complete health records and veterinary documentation, up-to-date vaccinations and deworming, a health guarantee, microchip registration information, a starter bag of premium puppy food, a blanket with littermate scent, a toy, and detailed care instructions. We also provide ongoing support and are always available to answer questions throughout your dog's lifetime.

Do you offer a health guarantee?

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Yes, we provide a comprehensive health guarantee with every puppy. Our guarantee covers genetic health conditions for a specified period and requires you to have your puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian within a set timeframe after adoption. We stand behind the health and quality of our puppies and are committed to responsible breeding practices. Complete details of our health guarantee are provided in our adoption contract.