FAQ's

What is your primary focus as a breeder?

At Ausable River Australian Shepherds Reg'd, our breeding program is guided by three essential principles to ensure the highest quality puppies:

1. Temperament: We prioritize sound, family-friendly temperaments in every litter. Our goal is to produce dogs that are not only loving companions but also balanced and adaptable in a variety of environments. Whether you’re looking for an active partner for outdoor adventures or a loyal family companion, we strive to match each puppy to the right home based on their unique personality.

2. Preserving Versatility: We are committed to preserving the Australian Shepherd's hallmark versatility as described in the breed standard. This includes a balance of drive, trainability, and loyalty to their home and owners. A versatile Aussie is agile and athletic, standoffish but confident with strangers, and possesses a great "off switch" to relax after work or play. This versatility ensures that our dogs can excel in various roles, from herding and agility to being beloved family companions.

3. Health: The health and longevity of our dogs are top priorities. We conduct extensive genetic testing to screen for breed-specific conditions and partner with trusted veterinarians to ensure our breeding dogs are in optimal health. This includes monitoring for skin, digestive, and other potential health concerns that could affect the quality of life for our dogs and their puppies. By focusing on these standards, we aim to produce puppies that are vibrant, healthy, and ready to thrive in their new homes.

Our commitment to these principles reflects our passion for the Australian Shepherd breed and our dedication to preserving its integrity for generations to come. If you have any questions about our program, we’re always happy to share more!

What can I expect in terms of puppy temperaments within a litter?

In most of our litters, we observe a variety of temperaments to suit different family needs, in the most general terms we tend to see:

• 1 to 3 Performance Prospects: Energetic and driven puppies well-suited for competitive activities like agility, herding, or obedience.

• 2 to 3 Medium-Energy Puppies: Balanced, family-friendly companions ideal for active families looking for a dog to join them on adventures.

• 1 to 2 Calm/Quiet-Energy Puppies: Easy-going companions that thrive in relaxed homes, whether as a second dog, with retired families, or with busy families seeking a low-maintenance addition.

​This varies depending on the number of puppies in a litter and the temperaments of the parents paired for breeding. We thoughtfully select families with diverse goals for their puppy, allowing us to guide placements that best suit both the puppy and their new home. If you'd like to know more about the specific expectations for an upcoming or current litter, we encourage you to reach out—we’re happy to share insights and answer your questions!

Why is it important to answer the application questions thoroughly?

Our detailed application is designed to help us understand your lifestyle, goals, and what you're looking for in a puppy. The more information you provide, the better we can match you with a puppy whose temperament and energy level align with your needs. Thoughtful and honest answers are crucial in ensuring a successful placement and a lifelong partnership with your new companion.

What is included with a puppy from Ausable River Australian Shepherds?

At Ausable River Australian Shepherds Reg'd, we believe in setting you and your new puppy up for success right from the start. Every puppy from our program is thoughtfully raised and sent home with a carefully curated package that reflects our commitment to their health, happiness, and your smooth transition into life as an Aussie owner.

Your puppy will come with:

• A Personalized Take-Home Bag:

  • A cozy blanket scented with their littermates to ease the transition.

  • A favorite toy to keep them entertained and comfortable.

  • Enough of their current food to start a transition diet seamlessly.

• Pro Plan Puppy Kit: Includes resources and information to help you with nutrition and care.

• Training Essentials: A clicker for training and treats to get you started on the right paw.

• CKC Registration: All puppies are registered with the Canadian Kennel Club under a Non-Breeding Companion Contract.

• Veterinary Care: Puppies receive a comprehensive health check by a licensed veterinarian, age-appropriate vaccinations, and are dewormed.

• Microchipping: Each puppy is microchipped for permanent identification and peace of mind.

• Health Guarantee: We provide a guarantee against specific hereditary conditions as outlined in our contract. 72hour General health guarantee for any concerns that pop up in the first few days of being at their new home!

• 30 day Trupanion Insurance Trial.

• Lifetime Breeder Support: We’re here for the lifetime of your dog to answer questions, provide advice, and support you through every stage of their life.

We do request a reservation deposit at the time of litter confirmation, this secures your interest in one of our puppies, it is applied to the final purchase price.

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We don’t just provide a puppy—we provide the foundation for a lifelong partnership. Our commitment to our puppies and their families doesn’t end when they leave our care; it’s just the beginning. We’re always just a call or email away to assist you on this exciting journey!

Do you ship your puppies?

Yes, we do! At Ausable River Australian Shepherds Reg’d, we’re experienced in coordinating safe and reliable puppy transportation to make your dreams of owning one of our Aussies a reality, no matter where you are.

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While we prefer families to pick up their puppies in person so they can meet us and their new furry family member, we understand that isn’t always possible and are happy to work with individual circumstances.

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We offer shipping through trusted pet transport professionals or by air, typically using Toronto Pearson International Airport. For international buyers, we have connections with brokers who handle customs and ensure compliance with country-specific regulations. International shipping requires some additional steps, including broker services, health certificates, CFIA (Canadian Food Inspection Agency) documentation, and vaccines.

Shipping puppies involves additional costs, which may include:

• Transport/Flight Fees: Airline tickets or transport service charges.

• Additional Vetting: Necessary health certificates, vaccines, and CFIA documents.

• Broker Fees: For international shipments to manage customs clearance.

• Travel Costs: Mileage to the airport, tolls, and, if needed, hotel stays for early morning flights or avoiding rush-hour delays.

• Supplies: A new crate, bowls, and other travel accessories.

We take every precaution to ensure your puppy travels safely and comfortably, using airline-approved crates and working with reputable transport providers experienced in handling pets. While the process can seem complex, we have plenty of experience and are here to help you every step of the way.

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Whether you're in Canada, across the border, or overseas, we’ll work with you to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience. Let us help bring your Ausable River Australian Shepherd puppy dreams to life!

Do you allow tails to remain undocked?

No, we do not leave tails undocked by request. Tails are docked at our trusted veterinary clinic, Romeo Pet Hospital, by skilled professionals using proper techniques to ensure the comfort and well-being of our puppies. At the time of docking, we are unable to assess each puppy’s temperament, which develops over the 8 weeks they remain in our care. Since matching puppies with families where they will thrive is our top priority, we focus on understanding their unique qualities and temperaments before making placements. This ensures that every puppy joins the home best suited to their individual needs.

What are the general health concerns for Australian Shepherds?

Australian Shepherds are a robust and active breed, but like all breeds, they can be predisposed to certain health concerns. Common issues seen in Australian Shepherds include:

• Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Developmental conditions that can lead to joint discomfort or arthritis.

• Hereditary Eye Conditions: Such as cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).

• Epilepsy: A neurological disorder causing seizures, which can vary in frequency and severity.

• Cancer: Unfortunately, like many breeds, Australian Shepherds can be at risk for certain types of cancer.

At Ausable River Australian Shepherds Reg'd, we are deeply committed to breeding for the health and longevity of the breed. We thoroughly research pedigrees and conduct health testing on all of our breeding dogs to reduce the risk of passing on hereditary conditions. However, it’s important to understand that some health issues, like epilepsy and cancer, are complex and influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

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While we strive to minimize these risks, there is no way to completely eliminate them from the breed. We encourage all our puppy families to maintain a healthy lifestyle for their dog, including regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and appropriate exercise, to support their overall well-being.

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If you have specific questions about the health testing we perform or how to best care for your Australian Shepherd, we are always here to provide guidance and support!

What kind of grooming does an Australian Shepherd require?

Australian Shepherds are a double-coated breed, meaning they have a dense undercoat beneath a weather-resistant outer coat. Regular grooming is essential to keep their coat healthy, reduce shedding, and maintain their comfort. Here's what we recommend:

• Brushing: Brush your Aussie at least 2–3 times a week to remove loose hair, prevent matting, and distribute natural oils throughout their coat. During shedding seasons (spring and fall), daily brushing can help manage heavier shedding.

• Bathing: Bath your Aussie as needed, usually every 6–8 weeks or when they get particularly dirty. Avoid overbathing, as it can strip their coat of natural oils.

• Trimming: While Australian Shepherds don’t require full-body haircuts, some trimming is helpful. This includes keeping their paw pads, ear hair, and sanitary areas neat and tidy.

• Nail Care: Trim nails regularly, approximately every 2–4 weeks, to prevent discomfort or issues with walking.

• Ear Cleaning: Check their ears weekly for debris or signs of infection, and clean them gently with a vet-approved ear cleaner.

• Dental Care: Regular brushing with canine toothpaste helps maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Proper grooming not only keeps your Aussie looking great but also strengthens your bond with them through regular handling and care. If you're new to grooming, consider enlisting the help of a professional groomer or seeking guidance from your veterinarian.

Do you allow puppies to be returned if circumstances change?

Yes, we will always take back one of our dogs, no questions asked, if your circumstances change and you can no longer provide a home. The health and safety of our dogs are our top priorities, and we never want them to end up in shelters or rescues.

Are Australian Shepherds suitable for first-time dog owners?

Australian Shepherds are intelligent, active, and eager to please, which can make them excellent for committed first-time owners. However, they require regular mental and physical stimulation to thrive. Families should be prepared for consistent training, socialization, and exercise to meet their needs.

Are Australian Shepherds easy to train?

Yes, Australian Shepherds are highly trainable and eager to please, making them a fantastic choice for families willing to invest time in their education. Their intelligence, responsiveness, and strong work ethic allow them to learn commands quickly and excel in activities such as obedience training, agility, herding, and even trick training. However, this intelligence comes with challenges. Aussies can be independent thinkers and may test boundaries if not guided with consistent, positive reinforcement. Providing clear communication, rewards, and plenty of mental stimulation is essential to keep them focused and well-behaved​.

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We understand that finding the right training program is vital for your puppy's development. That’s why we’re happy to provide area-specific recommendations for reputable trainers, whether you’re local to us or located further away. Building a strong foundation through proper training not only strengthens your bond but also helps your Aussie become a confident, well-adjusted companion.