The Australian Shepherd may range between $1,000 and $2,000. If you decide to be a pet parent it’s important to get all the information about the breed and its needs before you bring them home. Let’s get started!
Characteristics of an Australian Shepherd
Adult weight: 50 to 65 lbs
Adult height: 18 – 23 in.
Origin –United States
Life expectancy: 12 – 15 years
The Australian Shepherd is said to be a herding dog breed developed in the 19th century. Even though they are called the Australian Shepherd this breed their origin is said to be the United States.
The tale is that the Basque shepherds brought herding dogs with them to the United States, these dogs were valued for their agility and intelligence. Ranching and herding communities were where this breed was the most popular in the western parts of the United States. They are strong-built, medium-sized dogs with a double coat in various colors like black, blue merle, red merle and red with some tan marks.
What is the price of an Australian Shepherd?
Now that you have a brief knowledge of their roots and rich history, let‘s get started with the cost of adopting or purchasing them.
Adoption: $500 – $2000
The cost of adopting an Australian Shepherd depends on a few factors like their age, lineage, location of the shelter, etc. The price also depends on whether you decide to purchase your pet from a breeder or adopt them from a shelter. Adoption is always a more affordable option and also helps give a loving home to a dog who needs a second chance. Adoption may cost $200-$500. While purchasing an Australian Shepherd from a breeder may range from $600-$2000. If you choose to adopt your new pet, checkout our dog adoption checklist! This article will help you as you get ready to bring home your new family member.
Monthly costs for an Australian Shepherd Puppy?
Diets: $30-$100
On average the cost feeding an Australian Shepherd can range from $30-$100. This cost generally depends on the size and age of the dog as well as the quality of food given to them. As they are a highly active breed they may require more calories and food. Additionally if your pet needs supplements that is an additional expense.
Grooming: $50-$100
Regular grooming is necessary for Australian Shepherds as they have a double coat that also needs regular brushing to keep it tangle free and avoid shedding. A professional grooming service generally includes bath, brushing, nail trimming and ear cleaning which may cost $50-$100. If you decide to groom your pet at home all you need to do is invest in a few grooming supplies and you are good to go. The supplies may cost $50-$200.
Medical Costs: $1000-$3000
The lifespan of an Australian Shepherd is 12-15 years. However they may be prone to a few health issues. These health issues are -
Hip Dysplasia and Elbow Dysplasia - This condition is commonly inherited by the Australian Shepherd. The elbow or hip joint is not developed properly which leads to pain and difficulty in moving the joint. Treatment options include medications, joint supplements, and therapies. Surgery may be needed in some cases. Cost of treatment -$3000-$5000.
Hereditary Cataracts - Hereditary cataracts are also commonly found in an Australian Shepherd.They most commonly occur in dogs between 1–5 years old. Cataract is the clouding of the lens of the eye. Overtime it can cause blindness. Cost of treatment -$1000-$3000.
Iris Coloboma - Iris Colombo is a common condition found in the Australian Shepherds. In this the colored part of the eye doesn’t develop properly. There is no treatment available for this condition.
Insurance: $80-$100
Let’s talk about the protection of your lovely pet. This is a small price to pay to make sure your pet gets the best treatment in case of a medical emergency. On an average the premium can cost $20 to $50 or more.
One-time costs for an Australian Shepherd Dog
Initial Costs: $300-$500
The initial costs incurred when you get your Australian Shepherd home generally costs $300-$500. These costs include the cost of initial supplies needed for your pet. Supplies include collar & leash of $10 to $30, food and water bowl may cost $10 to $30, a grooming kit of $20 to $50, crate or kennel of $30 to $150, training cost of $10-$20, etc.
Microchipping: $25-$50
Microchipping is the best way to find your beloved pet if they go missing. It is a great form of permanent identification for your loving pets. On average, the cost of microchipping an Australian Shepherd can range from $25 to $50.
Vaccines: $75-$200
Every breed has different conditions they may be prone to so the cost of vaccines of an Australian Shepherd depends upon the specific vaccinations needed, the veterinary clinic as well as the location. Core vaccines that prevent the breed from major conditions are rabies, distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis), parvovirus, and sometimes parainfluenza. These cost around $20 to $50. While the non core vaccines like Bordatell, Lymes disease, canine influenza, etc can cost an additional $20-$40.
Miscellaneous
Miscellaneous expenses generally include training costs so that they can learn to socialize as well as respond well to people. If you need to travel or need to be away from home, pet sitter cost need to be considered as well. It’s best to keep aside $100-$150 for such expenses.
Lifetime Australian Shepherd Cost
On an average, the lifetime cost of an Australian Shepherd can vary from $12,000 to $45,000 or more. These costs may depend on the dog's age, health, lifestyle, geographic location, and the quality and preferences of products. It starts with an initial cost of the purchase or adoption of your pet which can cost $300 to $750. The initial cost also includes basic supplies like collar, leash, food bowls, crate, treats, etc. Their veterinary costs including checkups, vaccines, booster shots, etc. may cost $200 to $600 per year. Cost of any emergency may be variable. Cost of feeding them is maybe $30 to $60 per month. Professional grooming services cost $50 to $100 for each session. While training costs are $100 to $500. Additional expenses must be accounted for.
Conclusion
If you decide to adopt an Australian Shepherd then it's important to keep a few things in mind. They are an energetic breed and one must keep up with them, so if you have an active lifestyle as well then they are the perfect fit for you. They are also great at dog sports so If that is something that interests you then you’re up for fun weekends training your pet. To conclude, they are a loyal, energetic and intelligent breed and can serve to be great companions. With the right amount of love and care the Australian Shepherd’s can flourish to be a part of your family.
Happy Parenting to you and Lots of Love to your pup or your soon-to-be family!
Mostly a tech person, always a pet person. I am dedicated to improving the lives of pets and their humans with technology. Off-duty, I enjoy writing about the misbehaving of computer programs and my two Aussiedoodles, Calvin and Hobbes.
