Meet the Breeder
Hi! 👋🏻 I’m Hannah, the breeder behind Aurorealis Border Collies.
I’ve been involved with herding breeds for 15 years, and with Border Collies specifically for the past 13. Prior to that, I bred and exhibited Pembroke Welsh Corgis for approximately eight years.
I actively participate in a variety of dog sports, including conformation, Fast CAT, rally, and agility, and I occasionally dabble in dock diving as well.
Because these are working breeds, keeping our dogs physically fit and mentally engaged is a top priority. We focus on maintaining their conditioning and overall soundness through daily training, regular livestock work, long walks, hikes at our local state park, and plenty of time exploring our favorite creek spots.
When I’m not out working dogs, you’ll usually find me at home watching true crime, crocheting, or spending time with my family.
How we began
I've loved dogs my whole life and have always thrived in roles that let me work with them. I've worked at boarding kennels, humane societies, and independent rescues, and I've volunteered as a foster. I’ve also been a professional groomer and hobby trainer for 17 years.
My very first dog was a rescue—a mutt named Sasha—and she was the greatest dog I’ve ever known. She was the puppy that sparked my love for all things dog and inspired my passion for helping dogs in need. In my early 20s, I founded and ran a home-based non-profit dog rescue, successfully rehabilitating and rehoming over 100 dogs in just a few years. Even as a breeder today, I remain a strong advocate for rescuing, fostering, and adopting.
In early 2010, I brought home my first Pembroke Welsh Corgi, a redheaded tri named Murray. In 2012, I welcomed my first Border Collie, Zuko, straight off a farm—a true working dog. It didn’t take long for me to realize that herding breeds were the dogs for me.
Being able to participate in dog shows and sports, start a breeding program, and develop my own lines of healthy, versatile, well-bred dogs is something I’ve dreamed of my entire life. I feel incredibly fortunate to be living that dream—and I’m thrilled to share it with you.
Who we are today
For eight years, I bred and competed with Pembroke Welsh Corgis, building a program I was proud of and producing dogs I deeply enjoyed working with. Over time, however, I began to feel the pull toward something more—something that challenged me further and aligned more closely with the direction I wanted to grow as a breeder and handler.
In 2022, I made the decision to transition my program to Border Collies. It was a significant shift, and not one I took lightly. Changing breeds meant starting over in many ways—new mentors, new goals, new standards. But it also meant growth. It was not a small decision, and it certainly came with unknowns. But very quickly, I realized it was exactly the right one.
The move to Border Collies reignited my passion, sharpened my vision, and pushed me to grow in ways I hadn’t anticipated. Aurorealis Border Collies reflects that evolution—a program built with purpose, focused on structure, versatility, and real working ability. I am proud of the foundation being laid and excited about where it is headed.