Our Program
At Aspenleaf Shelties, we keep our program intentionally small so we can focus on each dog and each litter. We are not trying to produce large numbers of puppies. We are focused on producing the right ones.
Our breeding decisions are based on health, temperament, and structure, but just as importantly, on how those dogs actually live and behave day to day. We pay close attention to things like sensitivity, confidence, and how a dog handles real environments, not just how they perform in the ring.
Our puppies are raised in our home and are part of daily life from the beginning. They are exposed to normal household activity and handled regularly, which helps us understand each puppy's personality early and place them more thoughtfully.
We also do not take deposits until we believe we have a realistic match for a family. That allows us to focus on fit rather than filling a list.
Most importantly, we stay involved after puppies go home. We want our dogs to succeed in their homes long term, and we are always available to our families if questions come up.
Pricing
What is the cost of a puppy?
Pet and performance puppies are priced at $3,000.
All puppies are placed on limited AKC registration with a spay/neuter agreement.
A $500 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve a puppy. The remaining balance is due at pickup. Final payment may be made by card or cash; checks are not accepted.
Location
Where are you located?
We are located in Dewy Rose, Georgia.
Registration and Breeding Rights
Do you sell puppies with full breeding rights?
No. Our puppies are placed in loving companion homes only and are sold on limited registration with non-breeding agreements.
Going Home
When can puppies go to their new homes?
Puppies typically leave at approximately 9 weeks of age.
At 8 weeks, each puppy receives:
- A complete veterinary examination
- Fecal screening
- Age-appropriate vaccinations
- Microchip implantation
Each family receives a puppy folder that includes:
- Veterinary records
- Pedigree
- Pet insurance information
- Feeding instructions
- Schedule for upcoming vaccines and preventatives
Your puppy will go home freshly groomed and will include:
- A supply of current food
- A collar
- A toy or blanket with a familiar scent from the litter
Older Puppies and Retired Adults
Do you ever place older puppies or adult dogs?
Occasionally, a puppy we have grown out for evaluation may not mature as expected for the show ring. In those cases, an older puppy may become available.
These puppies are priced the same as younger puppies but often have completed vaccines and basic training started.
Retired adults are rarely available and are usually placed with families we already know.
Health Testing
Do you health test your breeding dogs?
Yes. Our breeding dogs undergo appropriate genetic screening, and results are registered with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA).
Health testing is an essential part of responsible breeding and helps reduce the risk of inherited conditions within the breed.
Reserving a Puppy
How do I reserve a puppy?
Complete the questionnaire on our Available page. Deposits are only accepted when we are confident that a suitable puppy will be available in the near future, usually after a litter has arrived.
Once approved, you will receive:
- An invoice for the $500 deposit
- An electronic agreement outlining deposit terms
Waiting List
How do I join the waiting list?
Submit the questionnaire on the Available page. Families on our list are notified when deposits open for upcoming litters.
Living Requirements
Is a fenced yard required?
No. Shelties are adaptable and can thrive in homes with large yards or in apartment settings.
We do ask how you plan to provide safe daily exercise if you do not have a fenced area.
Puppy Selection Process
How does puppy selection work?
Selection priority is generally based on deposit order. Families who reserve earlier are typically closer to the top of the list.
You will choose your puppy, and we will provide guidance regarding size, temperament, and best fit for your lifestyle.
Some puppies may not be available for selection if they are being evaluated as show or performance prospects.
If you decide not to choose from the available puppies, your deposit may be transferred to a future litter. We reserve the right to decline placements that may not be the best match for a specific puppy's temperament or needs.
Families typically begin selecting favorites around 6 weeks of age, either:
- In person
- Through photos and videos
- Via video call
Changing Litters
What if I decide to wait for another litter?
That is completely fine. Your deposit can be transferred to the next available litter, which often improves your placement in future selection order.
Pick of the Litter
Can I guarantee first pick?
No guarantees are made regarding first choice. We evaluate puppies first for potential show prospects.
The best way to increase your options is to place a deposit early and transfer it to a future litter if needed.
Visits
Can we visit?
We truly enjoy meeting future puppy families. However:
- Puppies are not handled by visitors until at least 6 weeks of age
- Visits are generally limited to families with deposits
- Foot traffic is minimized to protect young puppies from illness
- Mother dogs are often more comfortable once puppies are older
If you would like reassurance before placing a deposit, we are happy to provide references from previous puppy families and our veterinarian.