The Versatile Australian Shepherd

Use the links below to learn more about the Australian Shepherd, the AKC Parent Club, and our Foundation's mission to promote and protect the future of our incredible breed for generations to come. 

Our Priorites

When it comes to our dogs and our breeding program, we adhere to the following hierarchy of priorities:
  - Physical and Genetic Health
  - Proper Temperament
  - Type
  - Movement
  - Aesthetics

Health & Nutrition

Just as important as being sound in mind, and critical to the longterm health and wellbeing of our Australian Shepherds, is being sound of body.
As a result, all of our dogs have gone through the following health & genetic testing:
  • Hip Certification through Orthopedic Foundation of Animals (OFA) at 2 years of age.
  • Annual Eye Clearance by Canine Ophthalmologist
  • Genetics Testing including :  Hereditary Cataracts (HSF4), Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), Multidrug Resistance (MDR1), Degenerative Myopathy (DM)
We understand that nutrition can be a very personal decision, and over many years have tried a variety of diets including raw, home-cooked, and premium kibble.  Because we believe in a varied diet, today we have landed on a regimen that keeps our dogs in excellent weight, firm muscle, and healthy coat condition.
Our dogs diet includes the following:
  • Base of premium kibble (We currently feed a combination of Blackwood 2000 and Purina Pro Plan Salmon Sensitive Skin & Stomach)​
  • Rotating cooked meats (chicken, beef, lamb) and eggs
  • Rotating raw & cooked veggies (carrots, green beans, broccoli, apples, etc.)
  • Vitamin C Supplement (Dogzymes Cran-Tri-C)
  • Kelp (Dogzymes Organic Norwegian Kelp)
  • Raw bones (as treats)​
That said, despite what big advertising budgets and armchair experts will tell you, there is no "one size fits all" when it comes to feeding your dog.  There is no one perfect food that all dogs thrive on.  Like us, dogs are individuals, and what works for one may not work for another.
That is why we recommend doing your research and starting with recommendations from your breeder.  After that, experiment and see what works best for you and your dog(s).