The Australian Shepherd Club of Victoria Inc. (ASCV) is a non-profit organisation that was established in 1997 by a group of Australian Shepherd breeders, owners, and enthusiasts. The club is dedicated to maintaining the breeding of Australian Shepherds to the highest standard and has a strict Code of Practise and Statement of Purposes for its members.
The ASCV welcomes inquiries about Australian Shepherds and is especially happy to assist those who are interested in becoming Australian Shepherd owners. The club's membership base consists of breeders, owners, and enthusiasts who are passionate about the breed.
The ASCV organises various events and activities for its members and the Australian Shepherd community. One of their upcoming events is the 2022 MVA & Performance Weekends, which will be held over two weekends. The first weekend will include Herding Tests & Trials, while the second weekend will feature an Open Show and Performance Trials including Agility, Jumping, Obedience, and Rally.
The ASCV is active on social media, particularly on Facebook, where they encourage individuals to like their page to stay updated on club news and activities.
Individuals can contact the ASCV through standard mail or via email, using the provided addresses for different committee members. The club's contact information is available on their website.
The Australian Shepherd is described as an intelligent, attractive medium-sized dog with a bobtail and varied coat coloration. Each dog's coat and eye colour are unique. They are reserved with strangers but are highly devoted and reliable to their owners. The breed is known for being highly intelligent, strong, and agile, making them suitable as both working dogs and family pets.
The club has a Breed Information Officer who can provide further details about the Australian Shepherd breed. The ASCV has also produced a Breed Brochure as an introduction to the breed.
The history of the Australian Shepherd is debated, but it is believed that the breed originated in America. There are theories that suggest the dogs were brought to Australia from Spain with flocks of Merino sheep and Basque Shepherds, and eventually made their way to the United States. Another theory proposes that they were Australian Sheepdogs derived from the Smithfield and some type of collie. The name “Australian Shepherd” was given to the breed in the United States due to the perceived link between Australia and the herding of Australian livestock.
Overall, the Australian Shepherd Club of Victoria Inc. is a dedicated and passionate organisation that promotes the breeding, ownership, and care of Australian Shepherds to the highest standard.