Despite being developed as working dogs, Australian Shepherds or Aussies are now considered one of the most popular companion dogs in the United States.
People pay expensive reservation fees or have this dog shipped from a different state just so they can have one of ‘em.
If you are one of the many people looking for a new Aussie pup to add to your family, it would be best to look for a reputable Australian Shepherd breeder near you to skip the hassle and financial burden of shipping your dog.
To help you begin your search, I will share with you a list of ten excellent Aussie breeders where you can hopefully find your new furry companion.
RECOMMENDED READING: It has become a norm to see Australian Shepherd breeders marketing their available litter through websites, social media pages, and ads. If you are looking for Australian Shepherd puppies for sale online and are not sure how to identify a puppy scam from a legitimate breeder, read our ultimate puppy buying guide. It offers useful tips on how to safely transact via the internet and to identify scam red flags.
10 Places to Find Australian Shepherd Puppies for Sale
You are sure to find many Australian Shepherd breeders online. However, you always have to exercise caution as there are many unethical breeders or puppy mills that do not have the welfare of the dogs in mind.
The breeders I listed here are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and/or are members of Australian Shepherd kennel clubs. This means that they all conform to ethics and breeding standards set by these organizations.
1. Gold Ring Australian Shepherds – Louisiana
Gold Ring Australian Shepherds is a family-run kennel in Louisiana. Tim, Anne, and their son Grayson Calmes have been breeding Aussies for over 24 years, and they are recognized as an AKC Breeder of Merit.
Their Aussie puppies are socialized to humans and animals at an early age. They are exposed to obedience training and tested for herding ability on the family’s goats and chickens. You can be sure of this as Anne has also been teaching obedience classes for 17 years already.
Puppies deemed as show prospects may be sold with full registration and breeding rights. On the other hand, companion dogs are sold with limited registration and a spay/neuter contract.
All their pups are microchipped and registered with the AKC and Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA).
If you are interested in a Gold Ring pup, you have to fill out a puppy application and send it via email or snail mail. You can also send a message on the contact form on their website.
Puppies will go to their new homes with a packet containing the parents’ and the puppy’s health clearances, pedigrees, registration papers, pictures, as well as some vitamins and puppy food.
Gold Ring Australian Shepherds Breeder Information and Details:
Website: Gold Ring Australian Shepherds
Address: Hammond, LA 70401
Phone: (225) 281-9765
Email: goldringkennel@aol.com
Special Note: You can also find them on Facebook.
2. EverReady Australian Shepherds – Wisconsin
EverReady Australian Shepherds is a small kennel on a working dairy farm in Wisconsin. The founder Lisa Ott got her first Aussie to help her dad with chores around their farm, and she simply fell in love with the breed.
Now, she is an ASCA Hall of Fame member and an AKC Breeder of Merit. All dogs considered for breeding are health tested and proven in competitions. The Australian Shepherd puppies are raised in Lisa’s home where she provides training and socialization.
To apply for a puppy, you must accomplish a puppy application form and send it via email. After reviewing your application, they will contact you via email or phone.
Although they will consider your preference for gender and color, they will match puppies according to temperament and suitability to your lifestyle, so sending an application is not a guarantee that you will be able to purchase a puppy.
If they do place an Aussie pup with you, they will give a list of supplies to prepare for its arrival. All puppies come home with an info packet on training and puppy care, a copy of the sales agreement, registration papers, and health records.
EverReady Australian Shepherds Breeder Information and Details:
Website: EverReady Australian Shepherds
Address: Marshfield, WI, 54449
Phone: (715) 591-4756
Email: everreadyaussies@gmail.com
3. Pine Spring Australian Shepherds – Virginia
Pine Spring Australian Shepherds is a breeder on a farm in Central Virginia. Owner and breeder Janet Matkins got her first Aussie in the early 90s and produced her first litter of pups soon after.
After years of researching pedigrees, she switched breeding from working lines to conformation. She has since actively shown her dogs in AKC, ASCA, and United Kennel Club (UKC) events. She is now also an AKC Breeder of Merit.
To inquire about a Pine Spring puppy, you can send an email or call them, and they will send the puppy questionnaire.
Most of her puppies are sold on a pet/companion with a spay/neuter contract. A few puppies are sold on full registration for serious show or breeding homes. A written health guarantee for two years is also provided for all pups.
A $250 deposit is required to secure a puppy. Puppies sold on a companion contract will start at $1,200, while show prospects start at $1,500. She allows shipping, but the prospective owner must visit the puppy on her property beforehand.
Pine Spring Australian Shepherds Breeder Information and Details:
Location: Mineral, VA 23117
Phone: (804) 878-3242
Email: matj01@aol.com
Special Note: You can also find them on Facebook.
4. Poise Australian Shepherds & American Hairless Terriers – Texas
Poise Aussies and AHTs is a small show kennel in Cleveland, Texas. Angie Claussen, the founder of Poise, had her first Aussie in 2007 and has since been actively breeding and showing her dogs. The Australian Shepherd breeder is also an AKC Breeder of Merit.
Her puppies are all raised in their home, where she begins leash and crate training before they go to new homes.
They are evaluated at eight weeks of age for structure and temperament, and another evaluation for movement is done at 10 weeks. This is the time that they match puppies to prospective homes.
To get on the waitlist, you have to submit an application form on their website. Puppies can be sold as pets or show prospects. Pet puppies come with a limited registration on a spay/neuter contract, and prices start at $1,500. Show prospects are $1,500-$2,500.
Sometimes they would also have adolescent Australian Shepherds for sale. They are usually show prospects that did not grow to their expectations and would not be utilized for breeding. They will have been trained and can easily transition to a new home.
Poise Australian Shepherds & American Hairless Terriers Breeder Information and Details:
Website: Poise Australian Shepherds & American Hairless Terriers
Address: Cleveland, TX 77327
Email: poiseaussies@me.com
Special Note: You can also find them on Facebook.
5. Absoloot Australian Shepherds – Connecticut
Absoloot Australian Shepherds is a small hobby Australian Shepherd breeder in Connecticut. Founder Keli Gaunt got her first Australian Shepherd in 1987 and tried joining shows a few years after. Now, she is an AKC Breeder of Merit and ASCA Breeder Judge.
Her dogs live in their home and are raised on a mix of raw food and holistic kibble diet.
All her sires and dams are certified for hip clearances through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and have eye clearances through the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF).
Puppies are also checked for hereditary defects at eight weeks. By the time you would take them home, they would have had eye exams, first vaccines, and have begun crate and leash training.
Companion and performance puppies start at $3,500. Companion trained young adult Australian Shepherds are occasionally available, starting at $3,800. Show and breeding stock are also sometimes available but pricing and contracts will be by private agreement.
If you are interested in an Absoloot Aussie puppy, you can fill out a puppy questionnaire and send it to her via email.
Absoloot Australian Shepherds Breeder Information and Details:
Website: Absoloot Australian Shepherds
Address: New Hartford, Connecticut 06057
Phone: 860-480-6809
Email: absolootaussies@aol.com
Special Note: You can also find them on Facebook.
6. Riverlook Australian Shepherds – Tennessee
Riverlook Australian Shepherds is another small hobby Aussie breeder in Tennessee. Their ultimate goal is to produce Aussie puppies based on AKC/ASCA breed standards, prioritizing health, conformation, and temperament.
The Australian Shepherd breeder has also participated in the AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. Program and is a member of ASCA and USASA.
Their Aussie puppies are raised on their farm and are evaluated for temperament at seven and a half weeks old. This will be the main basis for matching puppies with new owners, although color and gender preferences will still be considered.
The price of a puppy is $2,000 regardless of companion or show prospects. Companion puppies are sold with limited registration but show prospects will be sold on a co-own contract to approved homes.
The price of their Australian Shepherd puppies includes AKC/ASCA puppy registration, microchipping, first set of shots, deworming, tail docking, removal of dewclaws, CERF eye checks, vet check, a bag of food, and a puppy bag with goodies for the puppy.
If you are interested in a Riverlook puppy, you can fill out the questionnaire on their website and send it via email.
Riverlook Australian Shepherds Breeder Information and Details:
Website: Riverlook Australian Shepherds
Address: Elkton, TN 38455
Phone: 901-692-7943
Email: jnt_179@hotmail.com
Special Note: You can also find them on Facebook.
7. LHT Aussies – Oklahoma
LHT Aussies is a breeder in Oklahoma. They are located on a ranch, and all their dogs participate in daily activities around it.
The Australian Shepherd breeder Jacqueline Lipps started just like every other backyard breeder, but she realized that she must not add to the problem of unwanted pets.
She strived to become a responsible breeder, and now she is an AKC Breeder of Merit and participated in the Bred with H.E.A.R.T. program.
Their Aussie puppies are introduced to crate and potty training. They also go through temperament testing at six weeks to determine which puppy will be the best fit for each applicant.
To get on the waitlist, you must fill out an application form. You should submit an application even when no puppies are available because breeding only occurs when at least six people are approved to be on the waitlist.
Puppies are placed and priced by goals and temperament and on spay/neuter contracts. All their pups are sold with a genetic health guarantee and will be up to date on vaccinations and worming treatments when you take them home.
LHT Aussies Breeder Information and Details:
Website: LHT Aussies
Address: Miami, OK 74354
Phone: (918) 629-9962
Email: jacquelinelipps@gmail.com
Special Note: You can also find them on Facebook.
8. Fiddler’s Green Australian Shepherds – New Mexico
Fiddler’s Green is an Australian Shepherd breeder located in Colorado. They have been breeding Australian Shepherds since 2003 and are recognized as an AKC Breeder of Merit.
All their Aussies live in their homes with other pets, so they are all socialized and easy to live with. Their dogs of breeding age are genetically tested, as well as tested on hips, elbows, and eyes.
Their puppies get their eyes checked by a canine ophthalmologist, receive health preventatives, vet checked, and have their first round of vaccines before they leave for their new homes.
Most puppies are sold on a pet/companion contract, which requires them to be spayed or neutered. Companion trained adults and young adults are also sometimes available. The price starts at $1,850.
A few puppies are sold as show/breeding prospects. These are usually co-owned and are required to obtain additional health checks before breeding. These puppies start at $2,500.
To purchase a puppy from Fiddler’s Green, you must accomplish an application form and send it via email.
When you are approved for a reservation, a deposit will be required. They also encourage new fur parents to personally go to their place to pick up their new Aussie puppy.
Fiddler’s Green Breeder Information and Details:
Website: Fiddler’s Green Australian Shepherds
Address: Colorado Springs, CO, 80925
Phone: 603-943-0426
Email: nutnbutblueskys@aol.com
Special Note: You can also find them on Facebook.
9. Gemfire Australian Shepherds – Arkansas
Gemfire Australian Shepherds is a small breeder in Arkansas. The breeder Jessica Smalley traces their beginnings to her mom who bred Aussies back in the 1980s.
After years of working with other breeds, she decided to focus on Australian Shepherds again. She tried to trace back dogs that came from her mother’s last litter. She succeeded in finding one and has since continued breeding from that lineage.
She strives to breed as close to ASCA and AKC standards and has also participated in the AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. program. All her Aussie puppies for sale are raised in her home with the full Puppy Culture program.
At eight weeks, the puppy should have been handled by at least 20 people, exposed to different surfaces and locations, can walk on a leash, and be examined and groomed calmly.
Puppy prices are at $2,000 to $3,000. When you buy a Gemfire Aussie, they come with AKC and ASCA registration, up-to-date vaccinations and deworming, microchip implantation, a health certificate, 30-day health insurance, and a goodie bag for the puppy.
To inquire about a Gemfire puppy, you can simply send them an email. Applications and payment details are available via their website.
Gemfire Australian Shepherds Breeder Information and Details:
Website: Gemfire Australian Shepherds
Address: Charleston, AR 72933
Phone: (479) 653-2741
Email: Gemfireaustralianshepherds@gmail.com
Special Note: You can find them on Facebook.
10. Forevr Farm Aussies – Florida
Forevr Farm Aussies is a hobby breeder in Jacksonville, Florida. They are a husband and wife team that competes their Aussies in various competitions like conformation, agility, herding, etc. They also join ASCA and USASA National Specialties every year.
They have been recognized as an AKC Breeder of Merit. Their breeding program focuses on type, movement, soundness, health, and temperament. They do not breed for specific colors or eye color.
All sires and dams are health tested through OFA and Paw Print Genetics. They only occasionally breed their dogs after they have achieved championships or performance titles.
Their puppies are raised in their home, following the full Puppy Culture program.
Similar to other Australian Shepherd breeders, they have some requirements regarding the homes they will place their puppies with:
They do not sell to homes with children under the age of five.
Homes should have a fenced-in yard.
A spay/neuter contract is required.
They prefer homes where someone will always be with the puppy.
Owners must personally pick up the puppy.
If you meet the requirements and are interested in purchasing a puppy, you may download a questionnaire on their website and send it back to their email.
Forevr Farm Aussies Breeder Information and Details:
Website: Forevr Farm Aussies
Address: Jacksonville, FL, 32223
Phone: 904-612-7770
Email: kwsumner@att.net
Special Note: You can also check out their Instagram.
All the Australian Shepherd breeders included on our list passed our standards. However, if you want to verify their legitimacy, read our ultimate puppy buying guide for some proven tips on how to safely find a breeder online or how to find a puppy for sale while avoiding scams.
RECOMMENDED: Puppy Buying Guide: How to Buy a Puppy Online Safely
Other Sources for Australian Shepherd Puppies
Aussie puppies from good breeders are usually reserved way ahead of time. Getting on a waitlist does not always guarantee that you can purchase a puppy.
But do not worry because there are some other places you can check to find an Australian Shepherd puppy for sale:
AKC Marketplace – There are over 300 listings of Australian Shepherd puppies for sale here. You can be confident in looking for a pup on this site because they only allow AKC-registered litters. Aside from the breeders’ information, you would also see if they are recognized as a Breeder of Merit or have participated in AKC programs and shows.
PuppySpot – This is another site where you can find Australian Shepherd puppies and even Aussie mixes for sale. The Australian Shepherd breeders they allow in this platform are vetted and screened in partnership with the USDA and American Humane. Puppies purchased from this site also come with a 10-year health guarantee.
ASCA Affiliate Clubs – ASCA is the largest independent Australian Shepherd club in the United States. Most of the breeders we mentioned are members of ASCA, and they have a network of Aussie breeders whom you can get in touch with through their affiliate clubs in each state.
USASA Directory – USASA is the official Australian Shepherd club under the AKC. They also have a directory of member breeders you can get in touch with. But keep in mind that their listing is a paid advertisement and the organization does not give a guarantee.
Puppies.com – This site also has hundreds of listings for Australian Shepherd puppies for sale which you can filter by location. However, you would have to do extra research on their breeders as the information on the site is limited.
How Much Does an Australian Shepherd Cost? Puppy Prices and Expenses
Purebred Australian Shepherd puppies can set you back around $800 to $2,000, depending on the breeder’s reputation, puppy’s pedigree, age, etc. You can expect the price can go higher for show prospects.
A high price does not always mean high quality. But remember that good breeding practices do not come cheap. It takes a lot of work, as well as genetic and health testing. Be very cautious with breeders that sell Australian Shepherd puppies just for a few hundred dollars.
Aside from the cost of your puppy, there are other initial expenses you would have to think of.
Here is a cost estimate of the things you should prepare before welcoming your new Aussie puppy home:
This is only an estimate to guide you. It would be best to talk to your breeder about the supplies and products they trust as they have had years of experience with Australian Shepherds.
I am sure that they will be more than happy to help you and provide a list of supplies you would need.
Aside from the expenses listed above, you also have to consider the costs of vet checks, training/obedience classes, and pet insurance. If the breeder allows shipping, expenses are also usually shouldered by the buyer.
How to Find Australian Shepherd Puppies for Sale in Your Area?
With the number of breeders and kennel clubs dedicated to Australian Shepherds, you do not need to go far to find a puppy.
Aside from the sources mentioned above, here are some other things you can do to find an Aussie pup:
Try looking in online communities. There are a lot of social media groups and pages dedicated to Australian Shepherds. You can strike a conversation with owners and ask for breeder referrals.
Check out local dog shows/events. A dog show is a perfect opportunity to meet and talk to breeders. You will also learn a lot about the breed by seeing many Australian Shepherds personally and interacting with enthusiasts of the breed.
Adopt one from a rescue or shelter. Unfortunately, there are still many Australian Shepherds that end up in rescues and local shelters for various reasons. This can be an option for you if you want to help give an Aussie a chance at a better life.
If you want to see what a dog show would be like, you can check this video clip below:
Australian Shepherd Show<a href="https://youtu.be/w5RZMrmGrm8" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.bubblypet.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2Fw5RZMrmGrm8%2F0.jpg" alt="Australian Shepherd Show" width="1280" height="700" /><br />Watch this video on YouTube</a>
Final Thoughts
Getting an Australian Shepherd puppy will entail a lot of time and work. So before you even begin the whole process, do your research and evaluate if the Australian Shepherd is the right breed for you.
If you find that this breed suits your lifestyle, your next step is to find a reputable breeder. Aside from researching online, you should also try talking to people who bought puppies from the breeders you are considering.
Responsible Australian Shepherd breeders will be transparent about the puppy’s health and lineage. You can expect them to provide health certifications and answer all your questions about their breeding program.
But of course, they will also expect that you will be committed to providing the right nutrition, training, and care for your Australian Shepherd for the next 10 to 15 years.
If you do your part as a responsible owner, you will find that an Aussie will be an intelligent and devoted companion to you and your family.
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