Our Standard

The Queen City Difference

We carefully select breeding dogs from pedigrees that demonstrate proven structure and stable, biddable temperaments. These foundations ensure our puppies are physically sound and mentally suited for a wide range of roles — from devoted family companions to beginner agility dogs. We raise versatile dogs.

Health Tested Lines

We only breed from proven healthy lines with OFA-certified dogs, CAER eye exams, and full genetic screening through industry leading labs ensuring healthy, sound Australian Shepherd lines for future generations.

  • OFA Hip & Elbow evaluations on all breeding dogs
  • CAER (formerly CERF) eye exams annually
  • Full genetic panel through Embark & UC Davis
  • MDR1, HSF4, CEA, PRA, and more — fully clear
Australian Shepherd puppy with blue eyes sitting next to a purple spiked balance disc

AKC & UKC Titled

Every breeding dog in our program is actively shown or trialed in AKC and/or UKC to ensure they meet the breed’s standards in both structure and temperament.

  • All breeding dogs titled in AKC and/or UKC
  • Proven to meet the Australian Shepherd breed standard
  • Structure evaluated by multiple judges
  • Breeding for correct movement, proportion, and type
Handler holding UKC award ribbons with Australian Shepherd at a conformation show

Socialized From The Start

Our dogs are raised in our home and on our farm. Puppies receive hands-on care from birth, including ENS and ESI to support confidence, stress resilience, and early learning.

  • Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) — Days 3-16
  • Early Scent Imprinting (ESI) — novel scent introduction
  • Raised in-home with daily socialization and handling
  • Exposed to livestock, household sounds, and varied environments
Red tri Australian Shepherd being socialized outdoors

Raised With Us

Our Australian Shepherds live in our home and on our farm as part of our everyday lives — not in kennels. They go everywhere with us, help with chores, learn alongside our family, and receive the kind of meaningful engagement that builds confident, connected dogs.

  • Health, Education, Accountability, Responsibility, Tradition
  • H.E.A.R.T. certified through December 2026
  • Commitment to transparent, ethical breeding practices
  • Held to the highest standard in the breed community
Australian Shepherd living as part of the family on the farm