Sharon Rives | Veritas Australian Shepherds

Interview with Sharon Rives, Breeder of Veritas Australian Shepherds

1. Please tell us a little bit about yourself. Where do you live? How many years in dogs? How many years as a breeder? What is your kennel name?
2. What are the hallmarks of your breed and why are they important for maintaining breed type?
3. In your opinion, are there enough puppy homes to support breeding a litter this year? 
4. How have you implemented new technologies in science and communications as a breeder? 
5. In your community, have you noticed a change in the public’s perception of purebred dogs?
6. Have you noticed any trends in the sport? Anything to be concerned about?
7. What are some of the positive changes you’ve seen in the sport in recent years?

Sharon Rives

1. I reside in Wimberley, Texas, a small town nestled in the hill country. I was born into the sport of purebred dogs; my parents bred and showed Bullmastiffs. My earliest memories are traveling with them to shows, and when I was old enough, showing my own dog, a Chihuahua named “Ruby.” This year (2025) marked 20 years since my first Australian Shepherd litter was born under the Veritas kennel name. I have been lucky enough to produced two all-breed Best in Show winners, over 35 Champions, and many Performance-titled dogs!

2. The Australian Shepherd is a breed of moderation, with an easy, ground-covering stride and the drive to work all day. It is important to maintain these qualities so as to not lose sight of what this breed was made for—working a day in the field, sorting animals in tight spaces, and gathering them in large ones. A dog that is heavy or excessive in their movement, or lacks the will to please, loses that ability.

3. In my opinion, yes. There are many homes wanting well-bred, preservation dogs. It’s all about moderation; quality over quantity.

4. Yes, I believe that in order to educate people and reach the younger generations, breeders have to meet them on their level. I maintain a social media presence on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, and utilize more “traditional” methods, like a website, our breed club’s Breeder Directory, and the AKC (American Kennel Club) Marketplace.

5. I feel the “adopt, don’t shop” movement is still strong, but I have been seeing more openness to well-bred dogs within my community, which goes along with the increased education by preservation breeders.

6. I see a lot of judges, exhibitors, and breeders choosing flash over function.

7. I think the National Owner-Handled Series is a great change and a wonderful way to encourage Owner Handlers to keep showing and achieving!