Sliding S Aussies

Training programs are tailored to working and competition goals for Australian Shepherds, with emphasis on stockdog trials (sheep, cattle, ducks). Programs include individualized consultation, ongoing training sessions with the trainers’ own dogs as examples, and intensive preparation for ASCA finals.

Training is hands-on, field-based, and often involves live stock work. Video content is available for educational reference.

Pricing Summary

Pricing is not publicly listed; interested clients are encouraged to contact directly for individualized training packages based on goals, dog background, and program intensity. Breeding and puppy placement have separate pricing.

Policies

Policy details are not published; clients are advised to contact directly for scheduling, cancellation, or rescheduling terms.

Sliding S Aussies is a dog training business run by Ken and Susan Severns in Caldwell, Idaho, specializing in working Australian Shepherd stockdogs. They have been training and trialing Aussies since 2009, with Susan having trained dogs since the 1970s and Ken joining the activity after retirement in 2022.

Their training focuses on developing biddable, sociable, and well-tempered dogs with strong stockworking ability, using bloodlines from Twin Oaks, Windsong, 45 Ranch, and Slash V. They train dogs for competition in ASCA stockdog trials and have produced four Stockdog Champions, including Oakley, the only Grand Champion Stockdog in ASCA history. Their training methods are rooted in real-world stockwork and competitive trialing, emphasizing natural herding instincts and obedience.

They also breed Australian Shepherds and occasionally have puppies for sale, ensuring puppies come from proven working lines with health-tested parents.

While they do not offer general pet obedience classes, their expertise is highly relevant for owners seeking a working or competition-ready Australian Shepherd, particularly those interested in herding, agility, or advanced obedience through a working dog framework. Their training philosophy prioritizes structure, temperament, and functionality over show aesthetics.

They provide training services primarily through hands-on trial preparation and personal mentorship with their own dogs, often involving direct interaction with clients interested in working lines. Their YouTube channel and social media offer educational content on training techniques and dog behavior.

They do not offer dog grooming, boarding, walking, or daycare services. Their focus is exclusively on training and breeding working Australian Shepherds for stockwork and competition.

Accomplishments

Produced four ASCA Stockdog Champions: Oakley (Grand Champion), Riddick, Sterling, and Nash. Skye, their foundation female, is a Hall of Fame Dam and produced four SDCHs.

Oakley is one of only four Supreme Champion Stockdogs in ASCA history. Their dogs have won multiple Nationals and Finals placements.

Susan has been training since the 1970s and has decades of experience in trialing and breeding.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients should contact Sliding S Aussies via email or phone to discuss goals, dog background, and availability. An initial consultation is offered free of charge to determine suitability and program structure.