Miniature Australian Shepherds
The Miniature Australian Shepherd started from a breeding program that began in 1968 originating with two small studs of the Australian Shepherd registry. The goal was to produce a scaled down version of the Australian Shepherd. The smaller dogs are under 18 inches and exhibit the same intelligence, temperament, and instinct to herd as the larger dogs, but are small enough to travel easily and be a “house” dog. The toy Australian Shepherds are to under 13 inches. They are considered more of a companion than working dog due to their size.
Colors of the mini aussies include black, red, blue merle, and red merle. These coat colors may include copper points and white markings. Faults are white areas around the eyes and ears or a white body. Eyes can be brown, blue, amber, green, or any combination of the four including flecked or marbled. Often times, one eye will be different from the other.
The Miniature Australian Shepherds need regular exercise, which can include outdoor play, walks, runs, or indoor fetch games. Mini Aussies have excelled in many performance events including fly ball, obedience, agility, and herding. The smaller the dog, the less area it needs to play. They are a sensitive breed, responding to the tone of voice of the owner or family. They are good guardians, and are devoted to their families. They do well with other pets and children a long as they are socialized at a young age. They are often reserved at first among strangers or in strange situations, but will often warm up once they recognize there is no threat.
Colors of the mini aussies include black, red, blue merle, and red merle. These coat colors may include copper points and white markings. Faults are white areas around the eyes and ears or a white body. Eyes can be brown, blue, amber, green, or any combination of the four including flecked or marbled. Often times, one eye will be different from the other.
The Miniature Australian Shepherds need regular exercise, which can include outdoor play, walks, runs, or indoor fetch games. Mini Aussies have excelled in many performance events including fly ball, obedience, agility, and herding. The smaller the dog, the less area it needs to play. They are a sensitive breed, responding to the tone of voice of the owner or family. They are good guardians, and are devoted to their families. They do well with other pets and children a long as they are socialized at a young age. They are often reserved at first among strangers or in strange situations, but will often warm up once they recognize there is no threat.
