Australian Shepherd Association of NSW Inc

Choosing the right breeder is vital. Not only is it important to find the right breed for your lifestyle but you need to find the right puppy too, and a breeder interested in what temperament of puppy best fits your lifestyle is one to aim for. Try going to a local dog show to meet breeders, Aussies and their owners to really get to know the breed.

A reputable breeder is not only someone who raises the puppy, but one who will be around for the remainder of the dogs life as an information source and support system.

A reputable breeder will happily provide information on the health testing of the parents and will be there if for some reason you can no longer keep your Aussie.

Many reputable breeders have lengthy waiting lists and you may be expected to wait to add your puppy to your family.

Finding the right breeder that is willing to work with you and your pup over their life is the most important decision you can make on your way to getting a dog.

Ideally, you should find that the breeder-evaluation process works both ways. Obviously, you’ll want to make sure of the breeder’s credentials – and they should want to make sure you will provide a good home. So don’t be surprised, or offended, if the breeder asks you as many questions as you ask them. This is a very good sign and shows they are genuinely interested in finding the best homes for their puppies.

Timing is everything! Resist the temptation to take your new dog home too soon. The time puppies spend with their mothers, brothers and sisters is crucial to their development – it’s how they learn how to communicate and learn the dos and dont's. You should pick up your puppy after it has turned 8 weeks of age, but if you have to wait until 12 weeks, it’s best to choose a puppy from a busy household.

Show dogs are born, not made. So if you want to win the coveted blue ribbon at the next big event, here are some things to bear in mind.

It isn’t easy raising a show dog. To begin with, you have to get a puppy with that innate potential. It’s important to note that very few puppies have that potential – and virtually all that do come from a top show kennel.

If you are interested in raising a show dog, let the breeders you contact know, they will want to make sure you know what you're in for and are your best source of mentoring and education on the breed and how to succeed in the breed and the whelping box.

Many top show dog owners invest a lifetime in this pursuit and do so out of a passion for the breed. So if your interest is more casual, show dogs may not be the best match for you.

Very few dogs are show dogs, but for almost all owners that shouldn’t really matter. Dogs are loved and lovable for what they have on the inside, not how they look on the outside. Most dog owners consider their dogs perfect just the way they are, and as long as the dog is healthy, the owner is happy. So even if your dog isn’t suited for showing, there are loads of fun, competitive activities (like obedience, agility training and many other dog sports) you can do together. And you know your dog will love it – and you – for giving them a go.

Aussies were developed to be versatile herding dogs across all different types of stock. This requires a high degree of intelligence and a strong desire to work. These qualities are also highly desirable for anyone that wants to compete in the many dog sports on offer today.

When looking for your next performance dog the best indicator for your future puppy having the drive, brains and biddability you require are the puppy's parents and close relatives. Toy and food drive are very important as motivational tools and can be seen very early on.

The same rules apply when you are looking for a herding dog. Although Aussies have their roots as a herding dog not all Aussies these days are bred for herding and not all will have a lot of instinct. Find out all you can about how the parents' work and if possible ask if you can see them in action.