Our First Dog Show Experience with Lyra: Starting Our Australian Shepherd Journey

Lyra, one of our Australian Shepherds at Queen City Farm, just earned her Championship title!

Aussie Breed Standard
Conformation Shows
Pedigree
OFA Hips
OFA Elbows

Australian Shepherds

May 20, 2025

Australian Shepherd Lyra standing proudly on a podium at a dog show, next to her winning ribbons and a championship sign.

From the moment Lyra came home to Queen City Farm, we knew she was something special. She was our very first show dog — the one who would teach us the ropes, the one who made us fall in love with the sport of conformation.

And now, after months of work, travel, and growth, Lyra — SkyCreeks Chasing Celestial Dreams VAHMP — is officially a Champion!

A Journey Filled With Learning

Like many young Australian Shepherds, Lyra needed time to fully develop into her structure — and the judges let us know it. We heard the same feedback repeatedly: “We want to see her grow up a bit.” and “Come back when she’s filled out.”

But we kept showing up.
We kept learning.
We kept cheering her on.

A blue merle Australian Shepherd trots confidently in the show ring beside her handler, demonstrating strong movement during a conformation competition.
Lyra gaining confidence and flow in the ring in Cynthiana, Kentucky

It felt like we traveled everywhere, and gained so many new friends and connects. We traveled to:

  1. Portland, Indiana — where she walked in confidently, even if the ribbons didn’t follow
  2. Clermont County, Ohio — a show that brought us new friends and new handling skills
  3. Cynthiana, Kentucky — familiar grounds where she started to shine

Every show gave her just a little more confidence… and gave us a deeper appreciation for this incredible breed.

What Makes Lyra Stand Out

Lyra embodies so many of the qualities that make Australian Shepherds truly remarkable. She is smart and eager to work. Her structure and movement are beautiful and fluid. She carries a sweet, stable temperament into every environment. And she brings drive and enthusiasm paired with a strong desire to please.

She isn’t just a pretty face — she’s the kind of dog who wants to do everything with you.

The Moment It All Came Together

A woman kneels beside a blue merle Australian Shepherd holding multiple blue and white dog show ribbons, both looking proud after winning at a conformation event.
Lyra and Kylea showing off their ribbons at the Clermont County, Ohio show

And then it happened — the maturity clicked, the structure settled, and Lyra walked into the ring with the calm confidence of a dog who finally knew she belonged there. Ribbon after ribbon and point after point, she continued to shine until that last show where her final win sealed the deal: Lyra is officially a Champion.

Why Championships Matter to Us

Titles don’t make a dog — but they offer proof of what we already know about her. Lyra’s success demonstrates that her structure and movement align with the breed standard, that she can perform with poise in busy and unpredictable environments, and that she embodies the temperament, soundness, and purpose we believe responsible breeding should always promote.

This isn’t just a celebration of a title. It’s validation of the care, ethics, and intention behind every decision in our program.

What’s Next for Lyra?

Even with this milestone achieved, Lyra’s journey is still just beginning. She will continue completing her OFA health testing, pursuing additional performance and sport titles, and growing into the incredible dog she is meant to be. We can’t wait to see where she takes us next.

Follow Along With Us

We look forward to sharing more show adventures, behind-the-scenes moments on the farm, and future announcements about her role in our breeding program. We are just getting started — and we’re so grateful to have you here to witness it. Make sure to follow us on socials!

FAQ

What does it mean when a dog earns a Championship title?
A Championship title shows that a dog has been evaluated by multiple judges and found to meet the breed standard in both structure and movement. It’s one of the most respected ways to prove a dog’s quality.

Why do responsible breeders show their dogs?
Showing dogs demonstrates that breeding dogs have the correct temperament, sound movement, and physical structure. It ensures future puppies inherit the best qualities the breed is known for.

How do titles help support ethical breeding?
Titles provide evidence that a dog isn’t just pretty — they are physically correct and mentally stable enough to handle busy, stressful environments like shows. It supports confident, healthy breeding decisions.

Are Australian Shepherds good show dogs?
Yes! Aussies are athletic, intelligent, and eager to work — qualities that shine in conformation and performance sports. Many love having a job and excel with proper training and socialization.