Northern California Australian Shepherd Club (NCASC)

The Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA), established in 1957, serves as the official parent club for the Australian Shepherd breed in the United States. As the largest independent, breed-specific organization in the country, ASCA functions as more than just a registry; it is a vibrant community dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and celebration of the Australian Shepherd. The club emphasizes the breed's unique heritage as a working dog, highlighting its strong herding and guardian instincts, intelligence, and exceptional companionship.

Core Mission and Activities

The mission of ASCA is to support owners and enthusiasts in understanding and participating in the diverse world of Australian Shepherds. The club facilitates a wide array of activities and competitive programs designed to showcase the versatility of the breed. These include:

• Performance Sports: Agility, Obedience, Rally, Scent Detection, Tracking, and Dock Jumping.
• Working Trials: Stockdog programs that honor the breed's historical purpose.
• Conformation: Events dedicated to maintaining the breed standard.
• Junior Showmanship: Programs designed to foster the next generation of handlers.

Membership and Resources

ASCA provides extensive resources to its members, fostering education and engagement. Full members gain access to exclusive benefits, including eligibility for ASCA merit and finals, the official Aussie Times publication, and the monthly AussEnews newsletter. The organization maintains a robust digital infrastructure, offering members access to historical archives of the Aussie Times dating back to 1969, as well as comprehensive information on breed standards, DNA programs, and basic genetics.

Governance and Rules

The club operates under a structured governance model, featuring a Board of Directors, various committees, and a dedicated business office to manage operations. ASCA maintains strict adherence to its governing documents, rules, and forms to ensure the integrity of its events and registration processes. Members are encouraged to stay informed through regular board meeting agendas, secretary reports, and official announcements. By providing a centralized hub for breed-specific data, event sanctioning, and community support, ASCA remains the primary authority for Australian Shepherd enthusiasts across the United States.