I'm Rita A., the breeder behind Hickory Ridge Family Toy Aussies located in Dyersburg, TN. We’re proud of the healthy, affectionate, and behaviorally well-rounded puppies we raise for other families to love! We are home-based breeders dedicated to bringing healthy, loving, and high-quality puppies into the homes and hearts of their forever families. We love our dogs and are passionate about raising our puppies to be the best family companions.
Q. & A. with Rita
Why did you start breeding?
My mom raised poodles when I was growing up. Through her, I learned so much about the foundation needed to raise healthy and happy babies. I guess it was natural to follow in her shoes. The only difference is, she had a kennel, and I do not.
What makes your program special?
I've raised, socialized, played with, and loved each individual puppy. I know each puppy's character and what type of home that baby would excel at. And I give each new owner lifetime support.
Where do your breeding dogs live?
They live in my home.
Getting a puppy from Rita
Rita has been certified by Good Dog’s screening team for responsible and trusted breeding practices. When you’re ready to reach out, feel free to ask any questions about the breed, their program, or specific puppies.
Together, you’ll choose the puppy that’s right for you, stay in touch with regular updates, and plan how to bring your new puppy home.
Price
Puppy prices include a $500 deposit and between $1,000 - $3,300 final payment, before taxes & fees.
“Our prices are based on color, confirmation and size. AKC registration for the Yorkies. ASDR registration for the Toy Aussies. Puppies are also microchipped. All deposits are, for the most part, non-refundable but can be rolled over to a different puppy. But, each situation is unique.”
Contract & health guarantee
Rita may provide a written contract or
health guarantee when you purchase a puppy. This helps
protect both you and your breeder, ensuring that you
both have a clear understanding of the terms of your
puppy purchase. If Rita offers a contract
or guarantee, the details will be personalized by them.
If you have any questions or want to know more,
don’t hesitate to reach out to Rita directly.
You can drive or fly to pick up your puppy from Rita.
Breeder’s location
Meet in Dyersburg, TN
Other pick-up locations
Meet at Nashville Airport (Berry Field)
More about Rita
Rita has been a member of Good Dog for about 3 years
Rita was screened for responsible practices and has been a member since 2022.
Rita is a trusted Good Dog breeder
Hickory Ridge Family Toy Aussies meets or exceeds our community standards in these areas:
Responsible breeding practices
Health of breeding dogs and puppies
Puppy environment and enrichment
Buyer education and policies
Parent health testing
Toy Australian Shepherd
Yorkshire Terrier
Breeder-Reported Testing
Good level
Hickory Ridge Family Toy Aussies reports to performing the health tests below on their breeding dogs. Ask your breeder about the tests performed on the parents of your litter. Learn more about health testing for Toy Australian Shepherds.
Genetic testing reduces the chance of passing down a wide variety of hereditary diseases of differing prevalence and severity such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (an eye disease) and Von Willebrand's Disease (a blood disease).