Shadowtaw Ridge™ — Australian Shepherd FAQ

Because every family deserves answers as honest as our dogs.

How much exercise does an Aussie need?
Plan on 1–2 hours daily plus mental work (training, puzzles, structured play). Our pups are pack-raised so they learn to balance drive with calm from day one.
Are Aussies good for families and first-time owners?
They’re loving and loyal, but they’re high-drive working dogs. Great for active homes willing to train and set boundaries. If you want a couch-ornament, an Aussie isn’t it.
Apartment or small yard — is that okay?
Yes if you meet the exercise/mental needs. Daily outlets matter more than acreage. Think walks + training + structured play, not just “let out back.”
What colors do Aussies come in?
Standard colors: Blue Merle, Red Merle, Black Tri, Red Tri. We breed for health, temperament, and structure first; color is a bonus.
How much do they shed and what grooming do they need?
Moderate year-round shedding, heavier in season. Brush 2–3×/week, bathe every 4–8 weeks, trim nails regularly. We start early handling so grooming isn’t a fight.
What health issues should I know about?
Common breed risks include hip dysplasia, MDR1 drug sensitivity, some eye disorders, and epilepsy. Our breeding dogs are OFA/CHIC evaluated, full DNA-tested, and AKC DNA-profiled before any litter.
What is MDR1 and how do I handle it?
MDR1 affects how some dogs process certain meds (e.g., high-dose ivermectin, loperamide/Imodium, some chemo drugs). Tell your vet your dog is an Aussie and ask about MDR1-safe options. We’ll share your pup’s DNA info if applicable.
Do you ever breed merle to merle?
No. Double-merle pairings raise serious eye/ear risks. We never do it. Health and ethics come first.
How big will my Aussie get?
Most adults land around 45–55 lb (females lighter, males heavier). We aim for balanced, athletic frames—built to work, play, and live comfortably with families.
How do I train an Aussie the right way?
Start early. Use positive reinforcement + clear boundaries + consistency. We send pups home crate-exposed, socialized, and pack-disciplined to give you a head start.
What comes with a Shadowtaw Ridge puppy?
Age-appropriate vaccines & deworming, vet records, microchip info (if applicable), and our written contract/health terms. We’re available for lifetime support.
How do reservations and the waitlist work?
Start on our Contact/Reserve form. We review fit, answer questions, and place you by application + timing. Exact deposit and terms are listed on our Contracts page.
Do you sell breeding rights?
Puppies are placed in pet homes with limited AKC registration by default. Breeding rights are rare and only by written agreement with equivalent health testing and ethics.
Do you offer shipping or transport?
We prefer in-person pickup. Case-by-case we can discuss vetted ground/flight options with a puppy nanny. Welfare > convenience; buyer covers transport costs.
What’s your health guarantee?
We provide a written guarantee and require a prompt vet exam after pickup. Full terms live on our Contracts page.
What if life changes and I can’t keep my dog?
Contact us. We offer lifetime breeder support and will help with re-homing per the contract. No Shadowtaw Ridge dog should end up in a shelter.
What does “AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T.” mean?
It’s an AKC commitment to Health, Education, Accountability, Responsibility, and Tradition. We meet those standards through health testing, ongoing education, transparent records, and ethical placement.
How can I verify your health testing?
Ask us for the dog’s registered name/number and check OFA/CHIC databases. We’re happy to provide copies and verification details.

Have a question we didn’t cover? Call/Text (580) 258-5032 or email support@shadowtaw.com — we answer every message personally.