Australian Shepherd Price Guide – How Much Does An Australian Shepherd Cost?

In spite of what his name suggests, the Australian Shepherd is an American dog through and through. Once considered a cowboy’s best friend, this gorgeous dog is now famous for his show-stopping smarts and incredible beauty.

Of course, all of these winning qualities don’t come cheap, and that brings us to the Australian Shepherd price. If you’re budgeting for an Aussie dog, you’re not going to want to miss what we have to say.

So, just how much is an Australian Shepherd going to cost you? Let’s find out!

But First, Let’s Meet The Australian Shepherd

Aussies are gorgeous purebred dogs famous for being a cowboy’s best friend.

Height: 18 to 23 Inches Tall

Weight: 40 to 65 Pounds

Coat Type: Double Coated, Dense, Shedding

Hypoallergenic: No

Coat Colors: Merle, Red Merle, Balck, Red Tricolor, Blue Merle, Black Tricolor, and Red

Temperament: Intelligent, Work Oriented, Active, Good-Natured, Affectionate, Loyal

Ideal For: More experienced dog owners, families with older children, active families or singles

Average Lifespan: 13 to 15 Years

Common Health Issues: Hip Dysplasia, Epilepsy, Osteochondrosis Dissecans, Deafness, Cataracts, Hypothyroidism, Sensitivity to Drugs, Skin INfections, Chronic Allergies, Heart Disease, and Hereditary Eye Diseases

Australian Shepherd Price Range: Between $650 – $3,000

Clubs That Recognize The Australian Shepherd

• The American Kennel Club (AKC)
• The United Kennel Club (UKC)
• The Australian Shepherd Club Of America (ASCA)
• The United States Australian Shepherd Association (USASA)

The Australian Shepherd – A Brief Overview

Also known as the Aussie, the Australian Shepherd is one of the most eye-catching dogs in the world. His flowing coat comes in a variety of colors and patterns, and this dog is capable of having blue eyes, green eyes, hazel eyes, brown eyes, or even heterochromia eyes (eyes of two different colors).

In spite of their stunning appearance, the Australian Shepherd is a working dog at heart. Bred for a variety of ranch chores, the Aussie may be named for Australia, the land in which he originated, but he was bred and perfected here in the United States.

Californian settlers and ranchers are credited for making this dog what he is today.

This dog is still one of the most popular in the United States as a working dog on a number of ranches and farms.

However, he also makes a popular companion and show dog, excelling in obedience. The Aussie has also made his mark as a police dog, search and rescue dog, and narcotics detection dog.

With all of that noted, it’s surprising to find out that the Australian price is relatively affordable when compared to that of many other breeds and mixes.

But just what is the Australian Shepherd price and what does it consist of? It’s time to talk about breeding!

What Is The Australian Shepherd Price? Let’s Discuss Breeding

If you want to understand the price of your Australian Shepherd, we’ll need to start at the beginning.

Let’s be honest – anyone can breed a dog. But not everyone can breed a dog safely and responsibly.

The truth is, ensuring that a litter of puppies is healthy takes a lot of work, and reputable breeders pride themselves on going the extra mile to ensure their pups are set up for a long and healthy life with their forever families.

This is often why going through a breeder is so costly, though going through a breeder has become somewhat controversial over the past few years.

Still, regardless of where you stand on adoption vs purchasing a dog, it’s important to remember that everything has a price. And when it comes to the Australian Shepherd price, the fee begins before conception.

Most reputable breeders consider breeding dogs their career. They will take time to obtain a breeding license and they will take care to ensure their dam, (the female dog) is healthy and ready to conceive and give birth. All of this takes time and money.

The Basic Yearly Expenses Of Breeding An Australian Shepherd:

• Proper Breeding Licenses – $125 to $600
• Dam’s Care (Including Dog Food and Supplies) – $30 to $200

Once the breeder has obtained a license and ensured the dam is healthy, their next step will be to acquire a stud. Depending on the quality of the stud, stud fees can vary from $100 to over $1,500.

After the stud fee has been covered and the dam has become pregnant, the breeder must then pay for routine veterinarian examinations, ultrasounds, prenatal care, medications, and other miscellaneous costs to ensure mom and her unborn babies are safe and sound.

The Average Breeding Costs For An Australian Shepherd Before Puppies Are Born:

 

• Health Testing And Clearance For The Dam – $300 to $700

• Average Stud Fee – $100 to $1,500

• Prenatal Care For The Dam – $150 to $600

• Ultrasounds, X-Rays, and Other Medical Expenses – $40 to $100 Per Visit

So, how much does it cost in total to produce a healthy litter of Australian Shepherd puppies?

The average cost of producing a single healthy litter of Australian Shepherd puppies is between $1,609 to $8,245.

Australian Shepherds tend to have a standard litter size of between 6 and 7 pups. Each one of these pups is going to come with his or her own unique set of needs, which will include his or her own price sheet.

And this is where whelping fees come in.

The Average Whelping Costs And Puppy Care For An Australian Shepherd Litter

• A Quality Whelping Kit – $80 to $850
• Required Puppy Vaccinations and Parasite Prevention – $165 to $700
• Quality Puppy Food And Puppy Supplies – $40 to $200

Of course, there are also going to be miscellaneous costs to breeding a litter of Australian Shepherds, and this will play into the overall Australian Shepherd price once you come along.

The Miscellaneous Costs Of Breeding An Aussie:

• Potential C-Section Price – $350 to $1,500
• Medical Care For Any Unwell Pups – $150 to $1,500
• Potential Costs of Euthanasia – $50
• Registering An Aussie Pup With The American Kennel Club (AKC) – $29 to $45 Per Dog

This Means Total Average Australian Shepherd Price for Breeding An Aussie Litter Is Between $1,609 to $8,245

Where do those above numbers come from?

According to the Dog Breeder’s Handbook, the average cost of breeding a dog can be broken down into three separate categories. These categories are organized from low to high, and can vary in between these three base numbers below:

Low Cost – $1,609

Median Cost – $3,002

High Cost – $8,245

For many Australian Shepherd breeders, the above costs for breeding fall around the median range. However, prices can vary based on unforeseen issues, medical complications, and even the region the breeder lives in.

We should also note that producing very high quality Australian Shepherds such as show quality dogs or working quality dogs comes at a higher Australian Shepherd price overall.

So, now that you know what it takes to breed an Australian Shepherd, let’s find out what the average Australian Shepherd price might be through a reputable breeder.

What Is The Australian Shepherd Price When Going Through A Reputable Breeder?

The Price of an Aussie through a reputable breeder can vary, but it’s generally the most expensive route up front.

According to the American Kennel Club, the Australian Shepherd is considered the 16th most popular dog in the United States. This could be due to his gorgeous appearance, his winning temperament, or his incredible intelligence. Of course, it could be a combination of all three.

Either way, the Aussie dog is a force to be reckoned with, and dogs that are popular can be a double edged sword for both breeders and clients looking to obtain one of these pups.

Very popular dogs like Australian Shepherds tend to be easier to come by, which leads to breeders competing with one another to sell quality dogs for more affordable prices.

As such, the average Australian Shepherd price is generally around $650 to $1,500 However, these are for puppies that are companion quality only, meaning they are not specifically bred for show and may not possess all the qualities needed in order to compete.

Breeders working to produce Australian Shepherds designed for competition or working purposes often sell their dogs for much more, with an Australian Shepherd price ranging from $850 to over $3,000.

With all of that being noted, it’s very important that you do your research and take your time when selecting a breeder for your Australian Shepherd.

Remember, not all breeders selling their puppies for a superior price are offering superior dogs.

How To Pick A Reputable Breeder And Which Breeders To Avoid

One of the cons of pursuing a dog that is as popular as the Australian Shepherd is that many so-called “breeders” come out of the woodwork in the hopes of making a quick dollar. Selling puppies is a big business, which sadly attracts some less than honest characters who are willing to cut corners in an effort to make a quick buck.

There can be a number of consequences of going through an unscrupulous breeder, including purchasing a puppy that is sick or investing in a puppy that may end up with behavioral issues down the road.

The best way to avoid these incidents is to steer clear of backyard breeders, online sellers, uncertified breeders, and those who are offering to sell puppies at an Australian Shepherd price that is much more or much less than average.

If you have your doubts about a breeder, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Keep in mind that most reputable breeders will be able to provide you with paperwork proving pedigree as well as health certificates proving their dogs have been screened and cleared of any serious health issues.

What Is The Australian Shepherd Price When Going Through A Shelter Or Rescue?

Adopting an Australian Shepherd has a number of benefits, and one of those benefits is price.

Although Australian Shepherd dogs are popular throughout the United States, they’re not the ideal dog for everyone. These dogs are high energy dogs that require routine exercise, care, grooming and attention.

They are also quite smart and very capable of outwitting and overwhelming novice dog owners.

Sadly, this means that many overwhelmed owners turn their Aussies over to shelters, so it’s quite possible for you to obtain an Australian Shepherd through a shelter or rescue.

Adopting any dog is going to be around a fraction of the cost of going through a breeder, with an adopted Australian Shepherd price ranging from between $250 to $500 through a rescue or shelter.

There are plenty of benefits and hidden savings you can acquire when going through a shelter to get your Aussie that you should also consider.

For example, dogs that are over two years of age may have already been spayed or neutered, and some may already be microchipped.

You may also be able to obtain an Australian Shepherd that has had some basic training and undergone behavioral testing.

When you are rescuing an Australian Shepherd, be sure to ask plenty of questions and be honest with the sources you’re going through to ensure you get the right dog for your home.

How Much Does It Cost To Raise An Australian Shepherd From Puppyhood?

Aussie’s have an average lifespan of about 13 to 15 years, and during that time they will be a constant investment.

Preparing for a new dog is a little bit like preparing for a baby. There is a lot that will go into puppy proofing your home and ensuring your Australian Shepherd has all the equipment he needs in order to grow up into a happy, healthy dog.

This is likely why most owners report that the initial cost of caring for a dog (not including the breeder or adoption fee) is on average of around $3,625 in the first year alone.

After the initial year, the typical Australian Shepherd price will drop to around $90 a month or $1,080 a year. This is still a big investment, and it’s a good idea to know where all this money is going.

Let’s break it down.

Dog Supplies For Your Australian Shepherd:

As we just mentioned, that first year of dog parenthood is typically the most expensive. You’ll be stocking up on supplies, equipment, toys, and more.

A few things you’ll need to invest in that you should consider when considering the overall Australian Shepherd price include:

• ID Tags
• Dog Collars
• Leashes
• Harnesses
• Bedding
• Food Bowls
• Dog Food Storage Containers
• And Toys

The average cost you’ll spend on these supplies will be around $500 a year, according to experts.

An Australian Shepherd’s First Year Of Medical Expenses

Perhaps another reason your Australian Shepherd price may be higher in that first year is due to the initial medical expenses. Puppies need to catch up on all their vaccines, while rescues should have an initial wellness exam.

There will also be Neutering and Spaying to consider, as well as microchipping, parasite prevention medications, diet recommendations and more.

The average cost for an Australian Shepherd’s first year of medical expenses is around $500 to $600.

Yearly Medical Expenses For An Australian Shepherd

After that initial year, the average Australian Shepherd price as far as medical costs can drop to around $50 to $300 a year, depending on your dog’s age and overall health needs.

If your Aussie is healthy, then you can expect to pay for the below types of medical care:

• Yearly Wellness Exams For Aussies Seven And younger
• Twice-Yearly Wellness Exams For Aussies Over Seven
• Routine Vaccinations
• Parasite Prevention Medications
• Yearly Dental Care and Dental Cleanings

Quality Dog Food And Treats For An Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds are medium sized dogs with lots of energy. They require a quality dog specified for their age and weight, and dog food made with real meat protein, fatty acids, carbs, vitamins, minerals and a good source of water.

Along with good dog food, you’ll also want to add dog treats to your overall Australian Shepherd price sheet.

The best training treats are going to be low calorie, smelly, chewy and made with real meat protein.

What is the average price of all this? The experts speculate that the Australian Shepherd price for food is around $250 to $700 in that first year.

The Average Cost Of Grooming For An Australian Shepherd

You can’t look at the overall Australian Shepherd price without looking at grooming expenses. These dogs have beautiful double coats that can be prone to matting and tangles, and it will be important to ensure your dog is properly brushed routinely and professionally groomed at least once every few weeks.

Many Australian Shepherd owners opt to bring their dog to a professional groomer, which can cost between $30 to $90 per visit.

On average, most medium sized dogs like the Austlrian Shepherd will need to be seen by a groomer at least six times a year.

You also have the option of doing some of that grooming at home. If you do choose to do this, we recommend you invest in the below grooming tools:

• Deshedding Tools
• Dog Nail Clippers or Grinders
• Quality Ear Cleaner
• A Dog Toothbrush and Toothpaste Kit
• Canine Specified Shampoo
• A Dematting Comb
• Trimming Shears

Depending on the route you choose to take when it comes to grooming your dog, the Australian Shepherd price for grooming typically ranges to between $50 to $330 a year.

What Are The Miscellaneous Costs Of Owning An Australian Shepherd?

When considering your Aussie’s overall cost, you’ll want to also consider miscellaneous fees.

Outside of the typical Australian Shepherd price, it’s important any potential owner also considers miscellaneous costs. These costs could include unforeseen medical issues, outsourcing for pet care, travel, and other expenses that may surprise you.

Since you are considering an Australian Shepherd, it’s important to also consider the health issues this breed may be predisposed to.

The Most Common Health Issues In An Australian Shepherd Include:

• Hip Dysplasia
• Epilepsy
• Osteochondrosis Dissecans
• Deafness
• Cataracts
• Hypothyroidism
• Sensitivity to Drugs
• Skin INfections
• Chronic Allergies
• Heart Disease
• And Hereditary Eye Diseases

The above ailments can have different costs, with the overall medical needs when it comes to an Australian price ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.

While there are a few ways you can combat health issues in your Australian Shepherd, it’s still important to consider these potential health issues and either have an emergency pet fund or consider investing in pet health insurance.

The average cost of pet health insurance for an Australian Shepherd is between $120 and $1,200 per year. Broken down, that’s about $10 to $120 per month.

Other Miscellaneous Expenses That Should Be Included In The Australian Shepherd Price

Along with unforeseen medical issues, there are going to be other potential fees that come simply with just being a responsible pet parent.

Some of the most common fees pet parents often forget to consider when considering the average Australian Shepherd price include:

• Pet Rent
• Travel Expenses
• Dog Walkers
• Pet Sitters
• Doggy Daycare
• Dog Trainers
• Puppy Obedience School
• Supplements, Vitamins, or Specialty Supplies

So, Is The Australian Price Worth It? We Think So!

Overall, the Australian Shepherd doesn’t cost much more or less than most other dogs. Is he worth it? We think so!

On paper, the Australian Shepherd price may seem like quite a bit. However, the truth is that the Australian Shepherd price is actually no more or less than any other dog of his average weight, size and lifespan.

The average cost of raising any dog is around $15,000 and $94,000, but according to the American Kennel Club, medium sized dogs like the Australian Shepherd cost their owners around $15,782 over their lifetime.

That said, remember that there are miscellaneous fees involved with raising an Asultrain Shepherd, and the true Ausltrian Shepherd price is going to depend on a variety of factors including your lifestyle, where you go to obtain your Aussie, and the type of care your Aussie receives while he lives with you.

So, what does this mean for you?

It means that the average Australian Shepherd price shouldn’t be the deciding factor as to whether or not you choose this breed of dog. Why? Because any dog will cost you about the same amount in the long run.

On the other hand, if you are looking for ways to save on the overall Australian shepherd price, we have you covered with these thrifty expert tips below!

Be Sure You Get Your Aussie Through A Reputable Source

As we did discuss briefly above, it’s very important to go through reputable sources when looking to obtain your Australian Shepherd. Not only will this help ensure you don’t overspend on the initial payment for a puppy, but it will also help save you money in the long run when it comes to your overall Australian Shepherd price.

Ensuring your Aussie comes from a reputable breeder or shelter can help reduce your chances of ending up with a sick dog or puppy, or a dog that develops serious behavioral issues down the road.

Both behavioral and medical issues can be costly for owners, so keep this in mind when you’re doing your research and looking for the best resources for where to obtain an Aussie.

Consider Having Your Australian Shepherd Health Screened At An Early Age

Most Australian Shepherds that come by way of breeders will be provided with health certificates and paperwork proving pedigree. However, Aussies that come through rescues or shelters could have a mysterious past.

You can help combat any potential health issues by having a good idea of what Australian Shepherds in general are most predisposed to, as well as having your Aussie health screened.

Canine DNA kits are available nearly anywhere these days. They are easy to use and relatively affordable, and they can provide you with quite a bit of information to help ensure your dog is healthy and happy throughout his lifetime.

Schedule Routine Veterinary Visits and Dental Cleanings

Another way to save on your Australian Shepherd price is to keep up with routine vet visits and schedule annual dental cleanings. While this may seem counterproductive, in the long run staying on top of your Aussie’s health will help reduce the amount you’ll have to pay down the road if he develops something serious.

Stick With A Proper Grooming, Exercise, Training and Socialization Schedule

Keeping up with a good grooming routine, exercise routine, training routine and socialization routine throughout your Aussie’s life will not only ensure your dog is happy and feeling his best, but it can also help ensure your dog is mentally sound.

A happy dog is generally a healthier dog, and this can help save you money in the long run.

And Last, Have Your Australian Shepherd Spayed Or Neutered

Spaying or neutering your Australian Shepherd is another step you can take to prevent specific health issues down the road and save on medical costs when it comes to the overall Australian Shepherd price.

Spaying and neutering will not only help combat potential health issues or even prevent these health issues from developing as your Aussie gets older, but this procedure can also help curb potential behavioral problems.

And there you have it – everything you need to know about the Australian Shepherd price. So, what do you think now that we’ve broken it down? Is the Australian Shepherd price overall more or less than you thought?

Share your opinions with us in the comment section below.