Everything you need to know about breeding Australian Shepherds responsibly - from health testing to finding the perfect breeding partner for your intelligent and energetic companion.
Understanding your Australian Shepherd's physical and temperamental traits is essential for responsible breeding
Male: 50-65 lbs
Female: 40-55 lbs
Male: 20-23 inches
Female: 18-21 inches
12-15 years
With proper care
Intelligent, Active
High energy breed
Australian Shepherds are herding dogs with high energy levels and strong work drive. Breeding pairs should exhibit proper herding instincts without excessive aggression.
Four recognized colors: Blue Merle, Red Merle, Black, and Red. Merle to merle breeding is prohibited due to increased risk of blindness and deafness in puppies.
Australian Shepherds can have brown, blue, amber, or heterochromia (different colored eyes). All are acceptable in the breed standard.
Some Australian Shepherds are born with naturally bobbed tails. Breeding two natural bobtails can result in spinal defects - genetic testing recommended.
Comprehensive health testing is mandatory before breeding to ensure healthy puppies
OFA or PennHIP testing required before breeding. Both parents should have good or excellent ratings.
OFA elbow evaluation recommended for all breeding dogs.
Annual CERF eye examination required. Genetic testing available.
Genetic testing available and highly recommended for all breeding pairs.
Genetic testing required - affects drug sensitivity. Critical for Australian Shepherds.
No genetic test available. Avoid breeding dogs with seizure history or affected relatives.
Annual eye examinations. Can be hereditary or environmental.
Monitor family history. Includes thyroiditis and other conditions.
Approximately 50% of Australian Shepherds carry the MDR1 gene mutation, which causes severe reactions to common medications including ivermectin, loperamide, and certain anesthetics. MDR1 testing is absolutely mandatory before breeding. Never breed two MDR1 affected dogs together.
Follow these essential guidelines for responsible Australian Shepherd breeding
Male Australian Shepherds
2 to 8 years
Female Australian Shepherds
2 to 6 years
Both males and females should wait until at least 2 years for full maturity and proper health testing. This ensures physical and mental maturity before breeding.
All health tests should be completed before breeding. MDR1 testing is critical for Australian Shepherds.
Females: No more than once per year, maximum 3-4 litters lifetime
Minimum 12 months between litters, skip heat cycles for recovery
Quality over quantity - focus on health, temperament, and breed improvement
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Expert advice and tips for Australian Shepherd breeding
Get a step-by-step guide to ethical dog breeding. Learn about choosing breeding pairs, caring for puppies, and ensuring responsible practices for a successful outcome.
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