About Us
Gearhart Aussies are committed to contributing to the continual improvement of the Australian Shepherd; and to maintain and produce the true foundation Aussie. Blake Osburn and Judhi Chopping formed a partnership in 1995 and began their search for the bloodlines on which a sound breeding program could be established. We both wanted those with natural herding instinct, intelligence and a "can-do" attitude. After speaking and evaluating the dogs of numerous breeders, we emphatically decided on the Mistretta HOFX bloodlines.
In addition to the previously mentioned criteria, the Mistretta dogs offered unexpected extras...overall sound structure, including a high percentage of excellent hips, good temperament, biddable yet with strength of character, excellent health, classic beauty with very sharp vibrant color, and type. Plus we got even more! Victoria Mistretta and her daughter, Christina Mistretta, have been our mentors and friends... willing to share their knowledge and giving us direction. These contributions are the reasons Gearhart Aussies is so successful in achieving our goals today. We are happy to be part of the Mistretta family and thank them for their trust and guidance.
In addition to the previously mentioned criteria, the Mistretta dogs offered unexpected extras...overall sound structure, including a high percentage of excellent hips, good temperament, biddable yet with strength of character, excellent health, classic beauty with very sharp vibrant color, and type. Plus we got even more! Victoria Mistretta and her daughter, Christina Mistretta, have been our mentors and friends... willing to share their knowledge and giving us direction. These contributions are the reasons Gearhart Aussies is so successful in achieving our goals today. We are happy to be part of the Mistretta family and thank them for their trust and guidance.
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Pictured in 1998 are Blake Osburn and "HOF Mistrettas Shadow Hawk" and Victoria Mistretta with Hawk's dam WTCH Mistrettas Zagala con Ojo Zaca. Our Foundation Dogs are HOF Mistrettas Shadow Hawk (co-owned with Victoria Mistretta), followed by his son WTCH Mistrettas Bandito Ballou RTDcs CD; and the females: Daughters Darling and Mistrettas Diamond In the Ruff. These four dogs have provided the basis for the talented and beautiful dogs of today's Gearhart Aussies. |
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Photo pictured in 1975 are Judhi's first aussie with her children, Steven, Jennifer and Michelle... "UB" was our first Aussie and from two "on site" parents working on their owner's ranch. He was purchased for $10.00, the only pup left; and, quite honestly not very attractive...thus his name "UB" which stood for "Ugly Beast". Through the years, "UB" blossomed into a handsome dog and was our loyal family companion. He died at age 14, never knowing how he got his name "UB". |
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