Zerlahn Australian Shepherds began by myself, Brian Glanzer, in 1993 when I acquired my first Australian Shepherd puppy.  This was the beginning of an exciting journey that continues unfolding every day I spend with this amazing breed.

I have a strong passion and love for both breeding and genetics paired with showing in conformation as well as other competitive venues.  This passion began many years ago when I had previously been involved in Shetland Sheepdogs starting when I was a teenager in 4-H showing in conformation and obedience.  I began my first breeding experiences with a couple Sheltie mentors when I was in my teens.  The establishment of my own ethics for breeding a superior animal in both movement, type, and temperament was formed in me from this time to today.

I had also been very active in horse shows beginning with 4-H and then moving into both the Southeast South Dakota Open Horse Show and the Northwest Iowa Horse Shows.  I was also active in Quarter Horses and Appaloosas where I moved up to showing in the Quarter Horse and Appaloosa Show circuits when I graduated from the 4-H program.  The joys of preparing and presenting an animal in competition and the many relationships that have developed with many wonderful people over the years is just a few of the rewards.

A respect for the beauty of all animals and the joys each bring to our lives I learned very early growing up on a farm and ranch in South Dakota.  I grew up with a number of family ranch dogs and horses that began my passion for breeding and showing.  I continue to value each dog I come in contact with both my own and those of clients, friends, and others for the dog’s own unique values and attributes!  To me, each animal is truly special and deserving of the very best life I can bring for whether it be a conformation champion with many performance titles or a rescue dog with a host of unique traits.

A bit of a nap!

Today, with my partner, Jimmie Leistiko, we move forward together in our passion for our dogs and Australian Shepherds.  I continue to enjoy the conformation show world conditioning and preparing outstanding show dogs who do outstanding in the ring.  Our focus remains on a small number of Australian Shepherds adhering to the USASA and ASCA code of ethics as both breeders and exhibitors.  We are members of both USASA and ASCA organizations.  All of our dogs and our clients’ dogs live as house dogs and true members of our family!