Australian Shepherd Dogs Available for Adoption

Meet the rescue president's favorite adoptable dog: JJ!

JJ is a quirky, spunky, 5 year old Mini Aussie rescued from a puppy mill, along with over 420 other dogs. His whole life he lived in a concrete kennel the size of a closet, used for breeding with virtually no human interaction: He hadn't even had access to touching grass!

He came to us scared, shut down, skinny, and matted. His teeth were rotted (we had them cleaned), and we gave him many, MANY baths. He was completely unsocialized with people, but due to the nature of where he came from, he has always loved the company of other dogs. And he has come a long, long way with his foster.

JJ was virtually untouchable for the first 6+ months he was at the rescue. He was respectful during vet appointments, but otherwise like a feral cat that would just dart straight back into his kennel -- his kennel is his safe space, and the small ones make him feel most secure.

At first, the milestones were small (like eating peanut butter off a spoon, or trembling *less* when you pet him). Since graduating him to the big play yard, we've noticed he excels in environments with lots of other dogs. The more dogs the merrier! It was then where he started to learn from other dogs "how to dog", and we started seeing more of his goofy side.

Once he trusts you, he is incredibly playful and affectionate. He'll zoom in circles around you, and tap you with his paw for more pets. It takes time before he gets to that stage, so a patient home willing to go his pace is needed. He loves having his chest scratched; if you find the perfect spot, sometimes he'll fall asleep still sitting up.

Though he would do well in a home with other dogs, an easy-going all-adult home is needed as well as a securely fenced yard. While we do not require fenced yards to adopt most of our dogs, one is needed for JJ because he is still uncomfortable walking on a leash. He warms up to women more than men, and absolutely needs a calm, compassionate, patient adopter that encourages him to come out of his shell with positive reinforcement. He brings so much joy to those special enough to see that side of him.

He is one of those Mini Aussies where whatever you put in to him reflects what you'll get out of him. You have to encourage him to make good decisions on his own terms when he's ready, the praise times he succeeds, and accept the times when he doesn't with compassion. He is incredibly loyal and it takes him time to warm up to new people.

He comes UTD on healthcare, neutered, and vaccinated.

Apply at herdinghomerescue.com/adopt - we do adopt out of state, but for JJ, we would only consider this for select homes. He is also looking for a new foster local to Austin TX with a secure fenced yard and no children.

The Australian Shepherd is a highly intelligent and energetic herding dog known for its loyalty and work ethic. Originating in the United States, despite its name, this breed is prized for its agility, trainability, and versatility in various dog sports and activities. Australian Shepherds have a distinctive medium length coat that comes in different colors, often with unique merle patterns. With proper training, socialization, and exercise, these dogs make excellent companions for active families and individuals seeking a devoted and playful four legged friend.

Herding Home is a 501(c)(3) rescue based in Central Texas, devoted to the welfare, advocacy, and placement of homeless domestic...