🐶 Australian Shepherd Puppies for Sale
Australian Shepherds, or Aussies, are highly intelligent, energetic, and one of the most versatile breeds—excelling as herding dogs, companions, and agility champions. If you’re looking for an Australian Shepherd puppy for sale, this guide provides critical answers, breeder recommendations, price breakdowns, and expert tips to help you find a healthy and well-bred puppy.
📌 Quick Answers: Australian Shepherd Puppy Buying Guide
| Question | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| Where can I buy an Australian Shepherd puppy? | AKC Marketplace, PuppySpot, Greenfield Puppies, Lancaster Puppies, or reputable breeders. |
| How much do Australian Shepherd puppies cost? | $600–$2,500+, depending on pedigree, location, and breeder reputation. |
| What should I ask an Aussie breeder? | Health testing for hip dysplasia, MDR1 drug sensitivity, and eye conditions (CEA, cataracts). |
| Are Australian Shepherds good for first-time owners? | Only if you can commit to training, daily exercise (2+ hours), and mental stimulation. |
| Can I adopt an Aussie instead of buying? | Yes! Rescue groups and shelters often have Aussies for $200–$500. |
🏡 Where to Find Australian Shepherd Puppies for Sale
Finding a well-bred Australian Shepherd means choosing the right platform, breeder, or adoption center.
📊 Aussie Puppy Buying Options Compared
| Source | Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
|---|---|---|
| 🐾 AKC Marketplace (marketplace.akc.org) | Registered breeders, high-quality puppies | Higher cost ($800–$2,500), limited availability |
| 🏡 Reputable Breeders (ASCA or AKC-registered) | Health-tested parents, temperament-focused | Requires research, possible waitlists |
| 🌍 PuppySpot (puppyspot.com) | Nationwide selection, health guarantees | Premium pricing due to breeder screening |
| 🐕 Lancaster Puppies & Greenfield Puppies | Affordable ($600–$1,500), many choices | Some breeders may lack health testing |
| 📢 Craigslist & Social Media Listings | Fast, cheap puppies ($300–$1,200) | High risk of scams, backyard breeders |
| ❤️ Aussie Rescues & Shelters | Lower cost ($200–$500), supports adoption | Puppies are rare; most are adults |
💡 Tip: Always ask for health records, parent details, and AKC/ASCA registration before purchasing a puppy.
💰 Australian Shepherd Puppy Price Breakdown
The price of an Aussie puppy depends on coat color, pedigree, breeder reputation, and health testing.
📊 Aussie Puppy Price Guide
| Type of Aussie | Price Range 💰 | Why the Price Difference? |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Australian Shepherd (Pet-Quality) 🏡 | $600–$1,500 | No champion bloodline, pet-only |
| Show-Quality Aussie 🏆 | $2,000–$3,500 | AKC/ASCA pedigree, superior structure |
| Mini Australian Shepherd 🐕 | $1,200–$3,000 | Smaller size, high demand |
| Aussie Rescue Adoption ❤️ | $200–$500 | Includes vaccinations & spaying/neutering |
💡 Tip: If a breeder is selling an Aussie for under $500, it’s likely a scam or a puppy mill—always verify legitimacy.
🌎 Australian Shepherd Prices & Availability by Region
Aussie availability and pricing vary by region, depending on breeder concentration and seasonal litters.
📊 Aussie Availability by Region
| Region | Price Range 💰 | Popular Breeders & Listings |
|---|---|---|
| Northeast (NY, PA, NJ) 🍁 | $800–$1,800 | Lancaster Puppies, Greenfield Puppies |
| Southeast (FL, GA, NC) ☀️ | $900–$2,000 | PuppySpot, Canyon Creek Aussies |
| Midwest (IL, MO, OH) 🌾 | $600–$1,500 | Puppyfinder, Kerr Aussies (AZ) |
| West Coast (CA, WA, OR) 🌊 | $1,500–$3,000 | AKC Marketplace, Emerald Meadows (WA) |
| Southwest (TX, NM) 🌵 | $1,000–$2,500 | Kerr Aussies (AZ), local ranch breeders |
💡 Tip: Prices tend to be higher in urban areas (California, New York) and lower in rural states (Missouri, Ohio).
🩺 Australian Shepherd Health & Ethical Breeding Standards
Aussies are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to specific genetic conditions.
🩺 Common Aussie Health Concerns & Prevention
| Condition | Risk Level 🚨 | How to Prevent It 🛡️ |
|---|---|---|
| Hip Dysplasia 🦴 | Moderate | Ask for OFA-certified hip evaluations |
| MDR1 Drug Sensitivity 💊 | High | Ensure genetic testing for MDR1 gene |
| Eye Issues (CEA, Cataracts) 👁️ | High | Buy from breeders who test parents for eye conditions |
| Epilepsy 🧠 | Moderate | Choose breeders who avoid seizure-prone lines |
💡 Tip: Ethical breeders test for these conditions and provide health guarantees—avoid those who refuse to show medical records.
⚠️ How to Avoid Australian Shepherd Puppy Scams
Due to high demand, there are many scams involving Aussie puppies.
🛑 Australian Shepherd Puppy Scam Warning Signs
| Scam Sign | Why It’s a Problem |
|---|---|
| Too Cheap (<$500) 💸 | Likely a scam or unhealthy puppy |
| Cash-Only or No Video Calls 🚩 | Real breeders offer contracts & multiple payment options |
| Stock Photos or Fake Listings 📷 | Always ask for live video proof |
| No Health Records 🩺 | Ethical breeders provide vaccination & vet check reports |
💡 Tip: Verify breeders through AKC/ASCA, check online reviews, and never send money without proof of legitimacy.
🗝️ Final Recommendations: Finding the Best Australian Shepherd Puppy
✔ Choose a reputable breeder—Look for AKC/ASCA registration, health testing, and positive reviews.
✔ Budget wisely—Expect to pay $600–$2,500 for a well-bred Aussie.
✔ Prioritize health over price—Cheap puppies may have hidden genetic issues.
✔ Verify before you buy—Always request video proof and vet records.
✔ Consider adoption—Rescue groups have wonderful Aussies needing homes.
🐾 A well-bred Aussie is an intelligent, loyal, and energetic companion—take the time to find a healthy, well-socialized puppy! 🐶🔥
💬 Expert Responses to Your Questions
Comment 1: “Why does my Australian Shepherd follow me everywhere?”
Australian Shepherds are deeply loyal, intelligent, and naturally inclined to form strong bonds with their owners. Their history as herding dogs means they were bred to work closely with humans, making them more likely to shadow their family members at all times.
🐾 Why Aussies Follow Their Owners & How to Encourage Independence
| Reason 🧐 | Why It Happens 🚀 | Should You Change It? ❓ |
|---|---|---|
| Herding Instinct 🐑 | Aussies instinctively watch over their “flock” (you!) | ✅ No, it’s part of their nature! |
| Bonding & Affection ❤️ | They form deep emotional attachments | ✅ Normal, but encourage confidence if excessive |
| Separation Anxiety 😟 | Can become overly dependent & stressed when alone | ❌ Train gradual alone time to prevent anxiety |
| Seeking Stimulation 🧠 | Bored Aussies look for ways to stay engaged | ❌ Provide mental challenges & activities |
💡 Tip: If your Aussie becomes anxious when left alone, gradually increase time apart, using puzzle toys, crate training, and positive reinforcement to build independence.
Comment 2: “Why does my Aussie puppy try to herd people?”
Herding is an instinct, not just a behavior, for Australian Shepherds. When they nip at heels, circle children, or attempt to direct movement, they are doing what they were bred for.
🐑 How to Manage Herding Behavior in an Aussie Puppy
| Why It Happens 🧐 | How to Redirect It ✅ |
|---|---|
| Herding Instinct – Aussies were bred to control livestock using body movements & nudges. | Provide structured play like fetch or agility instead of allowing nipping. |
| Excess Energy – Lack of exercise leads to behavioral issues like herding. | Ensure 2+ hours of exercise daily to burn off energy. |
| Lack of Training – Without guidance, puppies rely on instincts. | Teach “Leave it” and “Come” commands to redirect focus. |
💡 Tip: If your Aussie herds children or other pets, immediately stop play and use positive redirection—never reinforce the behavior as “cute.”
Comment 3: “Why does my Australian Shepherd stare at me all the time?”
Aussies use eye contact as a form of communication, bonding, and problem-solving. They were bred to control livestock with intense stares (known as “eye” in herding terms), so their piercing gaze is natural.
👀 Why Does Your Aussie Stare & What Does It Mean?
| Reason 🧐 | What They Want ❤️ | Should You Respond? ✅❌ |
|---|---|---|
| Waiting for Commands 🏆 | Aussies anticipate owner cues | ✅ Yes, engage in training or tasks |
| Herding Instinct 🐑 | Natural focus on movement & behavior | ✅ It’s normal but redirect if excessive |
| Seeking Attention 🐾 | They want engagement or affection | ✅ Respond if appropriate, but set boundaries |
| Reading Your Emotions 🤗 | Aussies are sensitive to moods & energy | ✅ Reward calm focus with praise |
💡 Tip: Engage with structured training when your Aussie stares expectantly—their intelligence thrives on challenges!
Comment 4: “Why does my Australian Shepherd dig so much?”
Digging is common in active breeds like Aussies, especially if they lack mental stimulation or need a cool spot in hot weather.
⛏️ How to Stop Excessive Digging
| Why Aussies Dig 🧐 | How to Redirect It ✅ |
|---|---|
| Boredom or Lack of Exercise – Aussies need tasks to stay engaged. | Increase daily play & training activities. |
| Cooling Off in Hot Weather – Digging exposes cooler soil. | Provide shade, fresh water, and cooling mats. |
| Hunting Instincts – They may be digging after scents or critters. | Keep the yard pest-free and supervised. |
| Anxiety or Separation Issues – Some Aussies dig due to stress. | Address underlying stressors & reinforce positive behaviors. |
💡 Tip: Create a designated digging zone—a sandbox or designated dirt patch can satisfy their need to dig while protecting your yard.
Comment 5: “Why does my Aussie puppy chew everything?”
Chewing is normal for puppies, especially during teething (3-6 months old), but destructive chewing can be a sign of stress, boredom, or lack of training.
🦷 Aussie Puppy Chewing: What’s Normal & What’s Not
| Chewing Trigger 🧐 | Is It Normal? ✅❌ | How to Redirect It ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Teething Pain 🦴 | ✅ Yes, chewing soothes gums. | Provide frozen chew toys & teething rings. |
| Exploring Their Environment 🌎 | ✅ Yes, young puppies use their mouths to learn. | Offer safe, interactive chew toys. |
| Boredom or Lack of Exercise ⚡ | ❌ No, chewing out of frustration leads to destruction. | Increase mental & physical activities. |
| Separation Anxiety 😟 | ❌ No, destructive chewing can be stress-related. | Use crate training & calming strategies. |
💡 Tip: Never punish after the fact—instead, redirect chewing to an appropriate toy immediately and reward good choices.
Comment 6: “Why does my Australian Shepherd bark so much?”
Aussies bark to communicate, whether it’s excitement, warning, or boredom. If barking becomes excessive, it’s important to identify the root cause.
🗣️ Aussie Barking Triggers & How to Reduce Them
| Why Aussies Bark 🚨 | How to Reduce It ✅ |
|---|---|
| Stranger Alert 🚪 – They have strong guarding instincts. | Socialize early & use “Quiet” command. |
| Boredom & Lack of Stimulation 🧠 – Smart dogs bark when under-stimulated. | Increase interactive play & training. |
| Attention-Seeking Behavior 🐾 – If barking gets them what they want, they’ll continue. | Ignore unnecessary barking & reward quiet behavior. |
| Excitement or Herding Drive 🐑 – Barking at movement or during play. | Teach alternative behaviors (sit, stay, focus commands). |
💡 Tip: If barking escalates suddenly or becomes obsessive, rule out anxiety or underlying medical issues with a vet visit.
Comment 7: “Why does my Aussie puppy run in circles (zoomies)?”
Zoomies—or FRAPs (Frenetic Random Activity Periods)—are bursts of energy common in high-energy breeds like Aussies.
⚡ Understanding Aussie Zoomies
| Why Zoomies Happen 🧐 | Should You Be Concerned? ❓ | How to Manage It ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Excess Energy 🚀 | ✅ Normal | Provide longer walks & structured exercise. |
| Playtime Excitement 🎉 | ✅ Normal | Use controlled play sessions. |
| Mental Stimulation Needs 🧠 | ❌ Not normal if excessive | Introduce training games & interactive toys. |
| Overstimulation or Anxiety 😟 | ❌ If paired with nervousness | Teach calming cues like “Settle”. |
💡 Tip: Zoomies are harmless if they happen occasionally—just ensure your Aussie has a safe space to run without knocking things over!
Comment 8: “Why does my Australian Shepherd puppy bite so much?”
Puppy biting is completely normal for Australian Shepherds, especially during teething and play. However, if not managed early, it can become a habit—especially in a herding breed with strong instincts to nip at movement.
🦷 Aussie Puppy Biting: Causes & Solutions
| Reason 🧐 | Why It Happens 🚀 | How to Stop It ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Teething Pain 🦴 | Puppies bite to relieve gum discomfort. | Provide frozen chew toys & safe bones. |
| Herding Instinct 🐑 | Aussies naturally nip at moving objects. | Redirect with a tug toy or structured games. |
| Excitement or Overstimulation ⚡ | Some puppies bite when they’re too excited. | Teach calm behavior with breaks during play. |
| Exploring Their Environment 🏡 | Puppies use their mouths to learn about the world. | Offer safe chew options & discourage hands as toys. |
| Seeking Attention 🐾 | If biting gets a reaction, they’ll continue. | Ignore nipping & reward calm play. |
💡 Tip: Never punish biting aggressively—instead, yelp like a puppy would and withdraw attention. This teaches them that biting stops the fun.
Comment 9: “Why does my Australian Shepherd puppy ignore commands?”
Aussies are highly intelligent, but they also have a strong independent streak—which means they may choose to ignore commands if they’re bored or unmotivated.
🧠 Why Aussies Ignore Commands & How to Fix It
| Why It Happens 🧐 | What It Means ❓ | How to Improve Training ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Lack of Motivation 🎾 | They aren’t interested enough to respond. | Use high-value treats or favorite toys as rewards. |
| Too Many Distractions 🌍 | Loud noises, other dogs, or new environments can overwhelm them. | Train in low-distraction settings first, then increase difficulty. |
| Inconsistent Training 📖 | If everyone in the house gives different commands, it confuses the dog. | Ensure all family members use the same cues & rewards. |
| Repetitive Drills Get Boring 😴 | Aussies love variety—doing the same command too often leads to disinterest. | Mix in different commands & fun games to keep them engaged. |
💡 Tip: Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes) and always end on a positive note to maintain focus and motivation!
Comment 10: “Why does my Aussie puppy whine so much?”
Whining is one of an Aussie’s primary ways of communication, but excessive whining can indicate anxiety, boredom, or unmet needs.
🐶 Why Aussies Whine & How to Reduce It
| Why It Happens 🧐 | What It Means 🚀 | How to Address It ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Attention-Seeking 🐾 | They want playtime, food, or affection. | Ignore demand whining but reward quiet behavior. |
| Separation Anxiety 😟 | Aussies form deep bonds and may struggle when alone. | Start crate training and gradual alone-time exercises. |
| Boredom or Lack of Exercise ⚡ | Not enough mental or physical stimulation. | Increase interactive toys, puzzles, and daily exercise. |
| Discomfort or Pain 🏥 | If whining is new, there may be an underlying issue. | Check for signs of illness, injury, or discomfort. |
💡 Tip: If your puppy whines excessively without a clear reason, consider a vet check to rule out medical concerns.
Comment 11: “Why does my Aussie puppy get the zoomies at night?”
The zoomies (or Frenetic Random Activity Periods, FRAPs) are bursts of energy that happen when a puppy hasn’t burned off enough excitement during the day.
⚡ Nighttime Zoomies: Why & How to Prevent Them
| Why It Happens 🧐 | What Triggers It 🚀 | How to Minimize It ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Excess Energy ⚡ | They haven’t had enough exercise during the day. | Ensure at least 2 hours of activity daily. |
| Excitement Before Bed 🎉 | Playing right before bedtime overstimulates them. | Switch to calm activities like gentle brushing before sleep. |
| Lack of Routine ⏳ | No set bedtime makes them restless. | Establish a predictable evening schedule. |
| Pent-Up Mental Energy 🧠 | Aussies need mental stimulation, not just physical. | Introduce sniffing games, puzzles, or obedience training before bed. |
💡 Tip: Avoid high-energy games (like fetch or tug) right before bedtime—instead, focus on calming activities like a slow walk or quiet cuddle time.
Comment 12: “Why does my Australian Shepherd bark at everything?”
Aussies are naturally alert dogs with a strong protective instinct. However, excessive barking can become a problem if not managed properly.
🗣️ Aussie Barking: Causes & How to Reduce It
| Why They Bark 🚨 | What It Means ❓ | How to Reduce It ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Guarding Instinct 🚪 | They’re alerting you to strangers or noises. | Socialize early & use the “Quiet” command. |
| Excitement Barking 🎾 | They bark when playing or seeing friends. | Reward calm greetings & discourage excessive excitement. |
| Attention-Seeking 🐾 | They bark to get food, play, or affection. | Ignore demand barking & only reward silence. |
| Boredom or Anxiety 😟 | Lack of stimulation leads to frustration barking. | Increase exercise, training, & mental stimulation. |
💡 Tip: If barking becomes excessive, redirect attention to a structured activity (e.g., a training game or chew toy) instead of yelling, which can encourage more barking.
Comment 13: “Why does my Aussie puppy sleep in weird positions?”
Aussies are known for their quirky sleeping habits—from sleeping on their backs to sprawling in odd angles.
😴 Aussie Sleeping Habits: What’s Normal?
| Sleeping Position 💤 | What It Means 🧐 |
|---|---|
| Belly-Up (On Their Back) 🐶 | Shows comfort, trust, and relaxation. |
| Curled Up Like a Ball 🌀 | A warmth-conserving instinct from their working-dog roots. |
| Sprawled Out (Superman Pose) 🦸 | Ready to jump into action quickly—common in active pups. |
| Pressed Against You ❤️ | Seeking closeness, bonding, and warmth. |
💡 Tip: If your puppy suddenly changes their sleeping habits, check for signs of discomfort, pain, or illness.
Comment 14: “Why does my Aussie puppy constantly jump on people?”
Jumping is a common behavior in Australian Shepherd puppies because they are naturally enthusiastic, energetic, and people-oriented. They express excitement through leaping up to greet, get attention, or initiate play. However, if not corrected early, this behavior can become problematic—especially given the breed’s strong physicality and herding tendencies.
🚀 Why Aussies Jump & How to Stop It
| Reason 🧐 | Why It Happens 🚀 | How to Redirect It ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Excitement & Greeting 🎉 | Aussies love their humans and want to greet face-to-face. | Teach “Sit to Greet”—only reward calm greetings. |
| Attention-Seeking 🐾 | If jumping gets attention, they’ll keep doing it. | Ignore jumping—turn away and reward all four paws on the ground. |
| Herding Instinct 🐑 | Jumping mimics controlling movement, a natural trait in Aussies. | Redirect to a toy or structured command (like “Down”). |
| Lack of Training ⏳ | If jumping has been tolerated, they assume it’s allowed. | Be consistent—no mixed signals from family members. |
💡 Tip: Reward your Aussie only when all four paws are on the ground. If they jump, ignore them completely until they settle.
Comment 15: “Why does my Australian Shepherd eat so fast?”
Aussies are high-energy dogs, and some develop a habit of gobbling down food quickly, which can lead to digestive issues, choking, or even bloat (a life-threatening condition in deep-chested breeds).
🍽️ How to Slow Down a Fast-Eating Aussie
| Reason 🧐 | Why It’s a Problem 🚨 | Solutions ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Food Competition Instinct 🏆 | Some Aussies feel they must eat quickly to “win” food. | Feed in a calm, separate space to remove competition pressure. |
| High Metabolism ⚡ | Active Aussies feel constantly hungry. | Feed smaller meals more frequently throughout the day. |
| Excitement Over Food 🍖 | Aussies love food and may rush mealtime. | Use a slow feeder bowl or a treat-dispensing puzzle. |
| Past Feeding Inconsistencies ⏳ | If they experienced inconsistent meals, they may have developed a habit of eating fast. | Stick to a consistent feeding schedule with measured portions. |
💡 Tip: Try spreading food out on a baking sheet or using a puzzle feeder to slow down mealtime and encourage mindful eating.
Comment 16: “Why does my Aussie puppy chase its tail?”
Tail chasing can be playful and harmless, but excessive tail spinning can also indicate boredom, stress, or even compulsive behavior.
🌀 Why Aussies Chase Their Tails & What It Means
| Cause 🧐 | What It Indicates 🚀 | How to Address It ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Playful Curiosity 🐶 | Puppies explore their bodies, including tails! | ✅ Normal—monitor and distract with toys. |
| Excess Energy ⚡ | Lack of exercise or mental stimulation. | ❌ Provide structured play and training games. |
| Attention-Seeking 🐾 | If tail-chasing gets a reaction, they may do it for fun. | ❌ Ignore it and redirect to an engaging task. |
| Compulsive Behavior (OCD) 🔄 | If excessive, it could be neurological or stress-related. | 🚨 Consult a vet or behaviorist if persistent. |
💡 Tip: If your Aussie chases its tail excessively or to the point of injury, consult a veterinarian or behaviorist to rule out medical causes.
Comment 17: “Why does my Aussie bark at the TV?”
Australian Shepherds are highly visual dogs, and moving images on a screen can trigger their herding instincts or prey drive. They may bark at animals, people, or even rapid motion on the television.
📺 How to Reduce TV Barking
| Trigger 🧐 | Why It Happens 🚀 | How to Manage It ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Fast Motion 🏃♂️ | Herding breeds react to quick movement. | Reduce stimulating TV time, especially before bed. |
| Animal Sounds 🦁 | Dogs on TV may appear as “intruders” to an Aussie. | Lower TV volume or use desensitization training. |
| Excitement or Playfulness 🎉 | Some Aussies bark just for fun. | Redirect with a chew toy or interactive puzzle. |
| Boredom or Lack of Stimulation ⚡ | Too much TV time can make an Aussie restless. | Ensure they get proper daily exercise and mental work. |
💡 Tip: If TV barking is excessive, train a “Quiet” command and reward calm watching.
Comment 18: “Why does my Aussie dig in their water bowl?”
Some Aussies love to dig in their water, splashing it everywhere. This behavior can be playful or instinctual, but it’s often linked to overheating, boredom, or curiosity.
💦 Reasons Your Aussie Digs in Water & How to Stop It
| Reason 🧐 | Why It Happens 🚀 | Solution ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Overheating 🌞 | Dogs use water to cool down. | Provide shaded rest areas & cooling mats. |
| Playfulness 🎾 | Puppies love water, and splashing is fun! | Give a kiddie pool for supervised outdoor water play. |
| Boredom 🧠 | They’re looking for entertainment. | Increase mental stimulation with new toys. |
| Exploring Textures 🤔 | Water feels different from other surfaces. | Use weighted bowls that don’t tip easily. |
💡 Tip: Try using a spill-proof, no-splash water bowl or placing a tray underneath to minimize mess.
Comment 19: “Why does my Australian Shepherd paw at me?”
Aussies often use their paws to communicate, whether it’s asking for attention, expressing excitement, or trying to “herd” their owner.
🐾 Why Aussies Paw at Their Owners & What It Means
| Pawing Reason 🧐 | What They Want 🚀 | Should You Allow It? ✅❌ |
|---|---|---|
| Attention-Seeking 🐾 | They want petting, food, or play. | ✅ Allow if gentle, but ignore if excessive. |
| Affection ❤️ | Some Aussies paw as a sign of love. | ✅ Accept this as their way of bonding. |
| Trying to Herd You 🐑 | Herding instincts kicking in. | ❌ Redirect with structured training. |
| Requesting Something 🍖 | Aussies are problem-solvers—they paw when they want something specific. | ✅ Teach a polite way to ask (like sitting instead). |
💡 Tip: If pawing becomes demanding, teach a cue like “wait” or “sit” to promote calmer behavior.
