Milwin

I was introduced to the Australian Shepherd in the 70's when I was showing Quarter Horses as a kid. I was always amazed at the loyalty and devotion the Australian Shepherd had for their owners.  After watching aussies at horse shows I decided this was the breed for me.

One afternoon my parents and I went to look at some horses and to my delight the owner happened to have a couple of red merle Aussies hanging out with her. I started talking to her about her dogs and as luck would have it, she showed me the cutest little red merle female puppy that she was planning to keep.  Well after some more discussion and all of us sleeping on it the next day we went back, and we came home with a 2-year-old mare and a little red merle puppy.

The puppy was registered with ASCA (this was well before AKC).  I started training and competing with Crystal in obedience she was outstanding worker, we won many 1st place awards and several High In Trials together.  As I continued to show in obedience with Crystal, I slowly obtained a couple more aussies expanding my knowledge and skills by branching out into herding with my talented blue merle boy Jasper.  Then I acquired Candy a beautiful black tri she was my first ASCA breed champion.  Aussies obtained AKC recognition in 1991 so I began competing in AKC with Candy.  She quickly obtained her AKC championship in a couple of shows. Then came my beautiful Emmie she was an outstanding blue merle.  Emmie and I shared so many special wins and accomplishments together she was truly a dream come true. She had a fantastic show career in ASCA and AKC.  This is a brief history of how my lifelong love of the Australian Shepherd began.  

A little bit about my breeding philosophy:  Before considering breeding any of my dogs they will have their eyes screened by a Board-Certified Veterinarian Ophthalmologist followed by annual eye exams checking for hereditary eye defects.  All dogs are cleared by OFA for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and patella luxation prior to breeding. I utilize DNA Genetic Testing as recommend by the AKC National Breed Clubs for the Australian Shepherd and the Miniature American Shepherd. 

I breed for correct temperament, structure, and sound movement as defined by AKC Breed Standard for Aussies and MAS. I spend many hours researching and planning each litter of puppies that I have.  

I take extra care in raising my puppies ensuring that all their needs are met both physically and mentally.  My puppies are born and raised in my home.  I utilize proven puppy rearing methods that are designed to help ensure that puppies develop into confident well-adjusted adults. New owners will be provided with information so that they can continue to provide socialization, training and health care once their puppy goes home with them.  Our relationship doesn't end when you take your new puppy home.  I am always available and happy to offer advice and guidance should you need it. I love to hear from all my puppy families and appreciate updates and photos periodically.

Whether your goal is to own a beautiful show, performance dog or a quality companion I may have the perfect Aussie or Miniature American Shepherd for you. Please feel free to contact me by phone or email if you have questions. 

I would like to offer a brief word of caution to all potential puppy buyers:   Backyard breeders, commercial breeders, brokers and puppy shops are just waiting to lure you in and take your money.  These types of breeders are usually unaware of health concerns, breed standards or even the proper rearing of puppies. Their goal is purely profit motivated. 

Your best bet is to buy from a knowledgeable reputable hobby/preservation type of breeder usually that person is someone that shows or competes with their dogs.  This type of breeder has a well thought out breeding plan that utilizes current available health test, breed standards, pedigrees, show and performance records. These breeders are far more interested in producing quality dogs and are usually looking to breed their next top performer or show dog for themselves.

Please educate yourself about the breed you are interested in prior to beginning your search for your puppy. This will provide you with the necessary knowledge needed to make good choices and hopefully help you to purchase the right dog for you and your family. Take your time don't get in a big hurry be willing to wait for the right puppy.  

Beware of internet puppy scammers often attempting to sell puppies they do not have by utilizing stolen photos for less money making you believe you are getting a real deal.  Once they entice you to make a payment you are instantly out of your money, and you certainly will not be getting a puppy. These people are impossible to track down so the likely hood of ever seeing your money again is slim to none.  Do not buy puppies from someone selling pups from a store parking lot that's totally an unacceptable practice.

Another important item worth mentioning is health testing be sure the breeder can provide documentation for health testing for the puppy's parents. If they can't provide that information giving excuses like our dogs have never been sick or that isn't necessary, as hard as it might be the smart thing to do is to walk away. 

 I hope you will find this information helpful and that it will give you some guidance on selecting your next pet but more importantly selecting a good breeder to work with.   Be prepared for the breeder to screen you as well.  A good breeder's first priority is the well-being of their puppies.