How Much Do Australian Shepherds Cost?
Australian Shepherds are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States, and with that popularity comes a range of prices depending on where you get your dog and what you are looking for. Whether you are buying from a breeder or adopting from a rescue, it helps to know what to expect before you start your search.
The average cost of an Australian Shepherd puppy from a reputable breeder is between $600 and $2,000. However, prices can go higher for puppies with show quality bloodlines, rare coat colors, or exceptional pedigrees. Adoption fees from rescues and shelters are typically much lower, ranging from $150 to $500.
Australian Shepherd Puppy Prices from Breeders
The price you pay for an Aussie puppy from a breeder depends on several factors. A pet quality puppy from a reputable breeder typically costs between $600 and $1,200. These puppies are healthy, well socialized, and come with health clearances, but they may have minor cosmetic traits that make them unsuitable for the show ring.
Show quality Australian Shepherds with champion bloodlines can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 or even more. These puppies come from parents that have been extensively health tested and have competed in conformation shows. The breeder has invested significantly in their breeding program, which is reflected in the price.
Coat color and eye color can also affect the price. Merle colored Aussies (blue merle and red merle) tend to be more expensive than solid colored dogs because of their striking appearance and higher demand. Puppies with blue eyes or heterochromia (two different colored eyes) may also command a premium.
What a Reputable Breeder Should Provide
When you pay a fair price for an Australian Shepherd from a reputable breeder, you should expect several things in return. Health testing on both parents is a must. At minimum, the parents should have been tested for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye conditions. Many good breeders also test for the MDR1 gene mutation, which is common in Australian Shepherds and affects how they process certain medications.
Your puppy should come with first vaccinations, deworming, a health guarantee, and a contract. The breeder should be willing to answer your questions, provide references, and take the dog back at any point in its life if you can no longer keep it. These are all signs of a responsible breeder who cares about where their puppies end up.
Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true. A puppy priced well below $500 from someone claiming to be a breeder may come from a puppy mill or backyard breeder who has not invested in health testing, proper socialization, or veterinary care. The money you save upfront can easily be wiped out by expensive health problems down the road.
Adopting an Australian Shepherd
Adoption is a wonderful option if you want an Australian Shepherd without the high cost of a breeder puppy. Breed specific rescues, such as Aussie Rescue and Placement Helpline, regularly have Australian Shepherds of all ages available. General shelters and humane societies sometimes have Aussies or Aussie mixes as well.
Adoption fees typically range from $150 to $500 and usually include spaying or neutering, vaccinations, microchipping, and a basic health check. You may not get a puppy through adoption, but adult and adolescent dogs are often already house trained and past the destructive chewing phase, which can be a big advantage.
Ongoing Costs of Owning an Australian Shepherd
The purchase price is just the beginning. Australian Shepherds are active dogs that come with ongoing expenses you should budget for.
Food costs for an Australian Shepherd run about $40 to $80 per month for high quality dog food. Vet visits, including annual checkups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention, typically cost $300 to $600 per year. Grooming costs are moderate since Aussies need regular brushing but do not require professional grooming unless you prefer it.
Training classes are highly recommended for Australian Shepherds and typically cost $100 to $200 for a basic obedience course. Aussies are highly trainable and respond well to structured classes, making it a worthwhile investment. Pet insurance is another expense to consider, typically running $30 to $60 per month, and can save you thousands if your dog develops a health issue.
All told, the first year cost of owning an Australian Shepherd (including the purchase price) can be anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000. After the first year, annual costs typically settle into the $1,000 to $2,000 range depending on your dog’s health and lifestyle.
Why are some Australian Shepherds so expensive?
Factors that increase the price include champion bloodlines, show quality conformation, rare coat colors like blue merle, extensive health testing on parent dogs, and the breeder’s reputation. Breeders who invest heavily in their dogs’ health and genetics charge more to cover those costs.
How much does a mini Australian Shepherd cost?
Miniature Australian Shepherds typically cost between $800 and $2,500 from a reputable breeder. Their smaller size and growing popularity have driven prices up in recent years. Be cautious of extremely cheap mini Aussies, as they may come from breeders who prioritize profit over health.
Is it cheaper to adopt an Australian Shepherd?
Yes, adoption is significantly cheaper. Adoption fees range from $150 to $500 compared to $600 to $2,000 or more from a breeder. Adopted dogs usually come spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped, which further reduces initial costs.
What is the most expensive Australian Shepherd color?
Blue merle Australian Shepherds with blue eyes tend to be the most expensive, often commanding prices $200 to $500 above standard colored puppies. Red merle is also highly sought after. Solid black and red Aussies are typically the least expensive but are equally healthy and wonderful pets.