.jpg?type=dog&crop=48x48)
-.jpg?type=dog&crop=48x48)
SnowFire Australian Shepherds
Meet the breeder
I'm Joan S., the breeder behind SnowFire Australian Shepherds located in Salida, CO. My dogs not only are conformation Champions but they also compete in performance events such as agility, rally and obedience. I strive to breed pups that will excel in these fields as well as being excellent companion dogs. Our two dogs sleep in the bedroom with us at night! They do well with children and adults alike. I breed dogs to conform to the breed standard of the Australian Shepherd. The standard includes sections in it that describe Aussie temperament, “He is an intelligent, exceptional companion. He is versatile and easily trained.” My goal is to produce a great representation of the Australian Shepherd and to continue improving the line with each generation. The standard goes on to say “An identifying characteristic is his natural or docked bobtail “ Tails in my litters are always docked. It would be my pleasure to answer any questions that you may have about this wonderful breed!
Q. & A. with Joan
Why did you start breeding?
I have always loved dogs and as previously noted, had Norwegian Elkhounds for 20 years and was an AKC judge. Once I found Aussies they’ve been the only ones for me! I am excited to be establishing my breeding program. As a breeder of Aussies I focus on breeding to the standard to produce physically sound puppies as well as ones with sound temperaments ready to do anything! I am passionate about placing happy, healthy puppies with loving families.What makes your program special?
I take pride in raising well-tempered and socialized puppies who can excel in work, show, or as beloved companions. I do not breed my dogs unless they are fully healthy and genetically tested. I am dedicated to always having responsible policies when it comes to breeding, socializing, and training my pups. I love what I do and truly want the very best for my puppies and their forever families.What are the different breed coat colors in your program?
Our puppies include black, red merle, blue merle, and red. Colors will vary depending on the parent dogs.Where do your breeding dogs live?
They live in my home.
Matched dogs
These dogs are already reserved or have gone home.
Boy 1
Went homeMale
Boy 2
Went homeMale
Girl 2
Went homeFemale
Girl 1
Went homeFemale
Girl 3
Went homeFemale
Girl 4
Went homeFemale
Girl 5
Went homeFemale
Getting a puppy from Joan
Joan 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 $2,500 final payment, before taxes & fees.
“All puppies are priced the same. Exceptional breeders do not charge more for color of coat or eyes. All puppies come with health guarantees, first shots, microchip, eye exam results, AKC and ASCA registration papers and health guarantees of hips and elbows for two years. They also come with a promise from me to help you with your puppy from when you first take him home and throughout his entire life! I hope to always keep in touch with puppy buyers. No deposits are required.”
Contract & health guarantee
Joan 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 Joan 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 Joan directly.
Always communicate and pay on Good Dog.Learn more
What’s included
From Good Dog
- Lifetime support from Good Dog’s Care Team
- 10% lifetime discount on Figo pet insurance
- Puppy Training Program & private community
Puppy health practices
- Vet check
- First round of shots and deworming
Location & pick-up
You can drive or fly to pick up your puppy from Joan.
Breeder’s location
Meet in Salida, CO
1530 miles away
·
More about Joan
Club memberships
Joan is a member of Colorado Australian Shepherd Club, Southern Colorado Australian Shepherd Club, United States Australian Shepherd Association (USASA), and Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA).
Certifications & recognitions
ASCA Licensed Conformation and Rally Judge.
Joan has been a member of Good Dog for almost 5 years
Joan was screened for responsible practices and has been a member since 2021.
Joan is a trusted Good Dog breeder
SnowFire Australian Shepherds 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
Breeder-Reported Testing
Excellent level
SnowFire Australian Shepherds 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 Australian Shepherds.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip testing reduces the chance of passing down hip dysplasia, which is primarily found in large breed dogs and can cause hip pain and the eventual loss of the function of the hip joint.
Elbow Dysplasia Finals (OFA, BVA, SV, FCI)
Elbow testing reduces the chance of passing down elbow dysplasia, which is primarily found in large breed dogs and can cause arthritis in the elbow joint and front leg lameness.
Eye Certification (CAER, registered with OFA)
Eye testing reduces the chance of passing down a wide range of hereditary eye illnesses including retinal dysplasia, lens luxation, and glaucoma, which can cause impared vision or blindness.
PawPrint Genetic Panel (Breed Specific), OFA/CHIC DNA Repository, Multiple Drug Sensitivity (MDR1)
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).
