I'm the breeder behind Paradox located in Westhampton, MA. The focus in our breeding program is on producing sensible, healthy, balanced, and moderate dogs that are well suited for their primary jobs as companions. Although our dogs have been successful in many areas of competition, it has become clear to us over the years that their most relevant job nowadays is that of companion. It is at this work that we hope they will excel.
About Alison
I've been professionally involved with dogs since about 1981 as a dog trainer, and entered the dog breeding world in about 1988 with the Aussies, and recently imported several Danish-Swedish Farmdogs to join our gang.
What makes Alison’s program special
Almost 40 years in, I have deep experience in dogs, their behavior, and the intersection of their lives with their humans. I have worked with pet owners my entire professional life, first as a trainer and then as a boarding and daycare kennel owner. I enjoy the people end of this work just as much as the dog part and am skilled at understanding what kind of dog might work best with which owners, coaching owners, and supporting them through the new puppy process.
Alison is a member of 3 clubs
Danish-Swedish Farmdog Club of America, Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA), United States Australian Shepherd Association (USASA)
Alison’s certifications & recognitions
USASA and ASCA Hall Of Fame Breeder, AKC Breeder of Merit
Alison has been certified by Good Dog's screening team for responsible and trusted breeding practices. When you're ready to reach out, feel free to ask any questions about the breed, their program, or specific puppies. You'll also have the chance to share a bit about yourself and what you're looking for in a new companion. Together, you'll choose the puppy that's right for you, stay in touch with regular updates, and plan how to bring your new puppy home.
Puppy prices range from $2,500 - $4,000 and include a refundable deposit of $500.
“We charge for the service of breeding and raising your companion. Ethical, small-batch puppy raising involves hours and hours of meticulous care, feeding, exercise, and training of Moms and Dads, vet bills, sleepless nights, endless paperwork, continuing education, and client support. The majority of the work a good breeder does take place in the months and years leading up to and after your puppy's birth. This is the service we do charge for. But the actual puppy is free! Puppies are fully dewormed, have received their first vaccinations, and are microchipped. Puppies that have begun their leash training, crate training, and socialization are priced accordingly. Companion trained adults usually start at $3500 and are only occasionally available. Show and breeding stock available to experienced breeders only, pricing and contracts by private agreement. Your deposit holds a spot on our waitlist. It doesn't hold a particular puppy.”
Alison may provide a written contract or health guarantee when you purchase a puppy. This helps protect both you and your breeder, ensuring that you both have a clear understanding of the terms of your puppy purchase. If Alison offers a contract or guarantee, the details will be personalized by them. If you have any questions or want to know more, don’t hesitate to reach out to Alison directly.
Baby puppies are handled daily - initially by us and then later by novel humans. They are exposed to household sounds, smells, and different surfaces. They learn to ride in a car while happily nursing from their moms. They take cozy naps in an open crate. Once old enough they accompany us outdoors to explore the woods, fields, and pond. I utilize the following enrichment methods: Crate Training, Car rides, Household Desensitization, and Touch Desensitization.
Our puppies have been wormed and vaccinated. Aussie pups have had their eyes checked. Their parents and other dogs they come in contact with are also fully wormed, vaccinated and parasite free.
Your puppy may come with extra benefits, like a small bag of food or a toy carrying the scent of their littermates. While Paradox hasn’t shared specifics yet, we encourage you to reach out directly to learn what thoughtful extras they may include to help your puppy transition comfortably into their new home.
Alison offers options to help you easily get your new puppy home.
If you’re nearby, you can visit in person to pick up your pup. If you’re far away, you can travel by car or plane.
“We do require that you come to our home to pick up your puppy. Our pick up process allows you and the puppy time to get to know each other. This allows you and Puppy the opportunity to bond so s/he will feel safer during such a big transition. We don't want your puppy to feel traumatized on such an important day!”
Why Alison started breeding
I trained an Aussie (rare at the time) for a client and fell for their brains and beauty. I decided I had to have one, met an excellent breeder and mentor and the rest is history! I discovered the Danish-Swedish Farmdog in 2010 after a lengthy search for a small, smooth-coated, biddable companion for one of my sons and then completely fell for them as well. So here we are!
Alison has been a member of Good Dog for over 4 years
Alison was screened for responsible practices and has been a member since 2020.
Paradox meets or exceeds our community standards in these areas:
All breeds
Australian Shepherd
Danish-Swedish Farmdog
Australian Shepherd
About Rue
Rue is a female Australian Shepherd. Carefully selected as a great representative of her breed, Alison decided to make her part of their program. Alison has passed Good Dog’s screening process, which involved a review of their breeding practices, environment, and the mental and physical health of their dogs.
Danish-Swedish Farmdog
About Toast
Toast is a female Danish-Swedish Farmdog. Carefully selected as a great representative of her breed, Alison decided to make her part of their program. Alison has passed Good Dog’s screening process, which involved a review of their breeding practices, environment, and the mental and physical health of their dogs.
Danish-Swedish Farmdog
About Drum
Drum is a female Danish-Swedish Farmdog. Carefully selected as a great representative of her breed, Alison decided to make her part of their program. Alison has passed Good Dog’s screening process, which involved a review of their breeding practices, environment, and the mental and physical health of their dogs.
Danish-Swedish Farmdog
About Mio
Mio is a male Danish-Swedish Farmdog. Carefully selected as a great representative of his breed, Alison decided to make him part of their program. Alison has passed Good Dog’s screening process, which involved a review of their breeding practices, environment, and the mental and physical health of their dogs.
Danish-Swedish Farmdog
About Dell
Dell is a male Danish-Swedish Farmdog. Carefully selected as a great representative of his breed, Alison decided to make him part of their program. Alison has passed Good Dog’s screening process, which involved a review of their breeding practices, environment, and the mental and physical health of their dogs.
Danish-Swedish Farmdog
About Harley
Harley is a male Danish-Swedish Farmdog. Carefully selected as a great representative of his breed, Alison decided to make him part of their program. Alison has passed Good Dog’s screening process, which involved a review of their breeding practices, environment, and the mental and physical health of their dogs.
Australian Shepherd
Danish-Swedish Farmdog
Great level
Paradox reports to performing the health tests below on their breeding dogs. Ask your breeder about the tests performed on the parents of your litter. Learn more about health testing for Australian Shepherds.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip testing reduces the chance of passing down hip dysplasia, which is primarily found in large breed dogs and can cause hip pain and the eventual loss of the function of the hip joint.
Multiple Drug Sensitivity (MDR1), Hereditary (Juvenile) Cataracts (HC; JC), Primary Lens Luxation (PLL)
Genetic testing reduces the chance of passing down a wide variety of hereditary diseases of differing prevalence and severity such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (an eye disease) and Von Willebrand's Disease (a blood disease).