Our Breeding Program

Our breeding philosophy at BLN Kennels….I love the Australian Shepherd breed. In Aussie’s, as in every breed, there are certain traits that are more typical or characteristic of the breed. The things I liked best about Aussies are their intelligence, fierce loyalty, hardiness, good health and that no two dogs looked the same. The characteristics that I was less excited about were their strong prey drive and the super high energy level that could be found in some bloodlines.

I strive to breed puppies that I want in my own life. I wanted a smart, loyal, loving, unique small dog that was not “yippee” or excitable. I wanted a dog that could easily go to a barrel race with me for 3 days and be in the trailer without crowding me. I wanted a highly trainable dog that was low maintenance. Basically I wanted a big dog in a little dog body.

To that end I went out to find the most laid back toy Aussie with exceptional conformation that I could find. Lo and behold I got Thompson’s Bonsai and he has turned out to be exactly what I hoped he would be. Being a long term member of the AQHA I had conformation, conformation, conformation driven into my brain and set out to find girls who were lower energy, intelligent and had great conformation. I wanted a toy Aussie who looks like a Standard Aussie. No one that knows the breed ever asks what kind of dogs mine are. They look like what they are, Aussies in a more compact package. My girls have exceptional color and conformation.

My pups tend to be on the larger end of the toy scale. Typically between 12 and 14 inches. While I really like the smaller Aussies I am not willing to compromise conformation and temperament over size. It’s important to remember that all mini and toy Aussies are bred from standard Aussies so there is never any guarantee in size. Just like two 5 foot 6 inch people can have a kid that grows up to be 6 feet tall the same is true in dogs.

My pups also have a tendency to be much more laid back than your average Aussie. If you are looking for a hard-core stock dog that is always on the go then you probably don’t want a puppy from us. I can recommend several excellent breeders who offer the more driven type of Aussie, odds are though a puppy from me will not be winning a herding class. Many of our puppies have gone on to be successful in the show ring and in agility classes. Quite a few of our pups are now working in the community as therapy dogs. My pups are much more suited to be pets and traveling companions. I’m not saying my dogs don’t herd but a great stock dog has an intense focus and will challenge any animal. My dogs will back off if directly challenged by cattle and can easily be called off. They are happier sitting on your lap giving you kisses and getting their bellies rubbed than telling a cow where to go.

If you are still interested in a puppy from me give me a call 651-335-4418 or e mail me at taleader@msn.com. I love talking about my dogs.

I don't run an "exclusive" web ring or condone the shunning of other breeders or get so selfish that I am the only one who can possibly breed great Toy Aussies as seems to be becoming the norm these days. I truly believe that you, as a prospective owner, just need to understand the various types of Mini and Toy Aussies there are today and make your own decision, whether it is my dogs or another type. I am happy to recommend another breeder if my Family Type dogs are not your cup of tea.

The UNMATCHED BLN Kennel Guarantee

We guarantee the puppy to be healthy at the time of sale. All puppies have been vet checked healthy before they leave our home. Puppies are vet checked Blue Sky Animal Hospital in Wyoming, MN. 651-462-PETS.

The puppy has a 72 hour health guarantee from the date of sale. During this period the buyer must have the puppy examined by a veterinarian - a well-puppy check up. If the puppy does not get a well-puppy check up this contract is null and void.

2. A written statement from the vet as to the health reason necessitating the return, along with contact information for the veterinarian.

All dogs are sold as pet quality. This DOES NOT mean they are not show/breeding quality. NO RESTRICTIONS are put on my puppies unless otherwise discussed. You buy him he's yours. I just ask that if you breed, you do so responsibly. The breeder is liable only to the extent stated in this contract. No further guarantees, either verbal or implied will be honored.

BLN Kennel Breeding Program

The UNMATCHED BLN Kennel Guarantee

BLN Kennels