Featured
Australian Shepherd Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the Australian Shepherd
Despite the name, the Australian Shepherd is an American ranch dog through and through - a striking, medium-sized herder built for a full day's work and happiest when given a job. Aussies bond intensely with their families, learn routines with almost unsettling speed, and excel at dog sports from agility to disc. That same working engine is the honest caveat: an under-stimulated Aussie invents projects, and herding instincts can surface around running children and bikes. For active households ready to train and exercise daily, few breeds give back more.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
Exercise needsDefining trait
Energy levelDefining trait
TrainabilityDefining trait
Grooming effortTypical
SheddingHigher than most
BarkingTypical
Apartment fitLower than most
Good with childrenHigher than most
Good with other dogsHigher than most
First-time ownersLower than most
Showing 8 of 146 active listings
Search all puppies →
Featured
Featured
Featured
Featured
Featured
Featured
Featured
Where this breed shines
- Elite trainability - thrives in sports and advanced obedience
- Loyal, attentive family partner
- Sound, athletic build with weather-resistant coat
Things to consider
- Needs one to two hours of genuine exercise plus mental work daily
- Herding nips at children and bikes must be trained through early
- Heavy seasonal shedding
History
Developed by ranchers in the western United States in the 19th and 20th centuries, likely from Basque shepherd dogs that arrived via Australia - hence the name. Rodeo appearances after World War II made the breed famous.
Temperament
Devoted, watchful, and busy. Reserved with strangers without early socialization; superb with engaged owners who channel the work drive.
Questions to ask a Australian Shepherd breeder
- Are both parents MDR1-tested, and what are the results?
- Do you breed merle to merle? (The answer should be no.)
- What do the parents do - sport, ranch work, or companionship?
Health considerations to discuss
MDR1 drug sensitivity. A simple DNA test; affected dogs need specific medication caution.
Hip dysplasia and eye disease. Ask for OFA hips and recent eye exams.
Double-merle deafness/blindness. Responsible programs never pair two merles.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: ASHGI health resources · AKC breed overview — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Australian Shepherd litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Australian Shepherd puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Australian Shepherd listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How much do Australian Shepherd puppies cost?
Listed puppies currently range from $100 to $3,800. Each breeder sets their own price, which varies with the puppy's age, lineage, and location.
How can I tell if a Australian Shepherd breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.