Position Statements

The Miniature Australian Shepherd, North American Shepherd, North American Miniature Australian Shepherd, Miniature American Shepherd, and/or Toy Australian Shepherd breeds are not recognized as a variety of Australian Shepherd by ASCA. The club considers such dogs to be distinct and separate breeds and will not accept them in to its registry.

ASCA's bylaws state that the club's purpose is to encourage members and breeders to accept one breed standard for the Australian Shepherd, as approved by the club, as the only standard of excellence by which Australian Shepherds shall be judged. It is the mission of ASCA and its members to preserve the breed rather than change it.

The Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA) is opposed to any legislation, regulation, or lobbying efforts whose actions result in a mandate requiring the spay or neuter of privately owned animals. Castration (neuter) and ovariohysterectomy/ hysterectomy (spay) are major surgical operations and affect the well-being of the animal for the duration of its lifespan. This should be an informed decision made by private individuals and not by any governmental agency. More information here.

The Australian Shepherd Club of America will not condone the policy of any individual, group, or proposed legislation which restricts the practice of tail docking or removal of dewclaws for cosmetic or health reasons. We find this policy to be a detriment to the welfare of the Australian Shepherd breed as a whole and an infringement on the rights of the owners, breeders, trainers, and exhibitors of all domesticated animals. More information here.

The Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA) is opposed to any legislation, regulation, or lobbying efforts whose actions result in a mandate restricting owners’ interactions with their animals. Tethering is an age-old method of humane confinement that, while perhaps not suitable for all dogs or families, is neither cruel nor indicative of on-going neglect or abuse. The method of confinement should reflect the dog’s nature and not be mandated by a one-size-fits-all law. There is no valid reason for anti-tethering legislation except to placate members of the radical animal rights industry who more and more attempt to encroach upon our civil and property rights. More information here.