The Miniature Australian Shepherd , often cut as MAS and refer to as " minis " for short , is a pint - sized version of the truthful Australian Shepherd . Although these click originated from Aussies , they ’re now a clear-cut strain with their own quirks and magic spell . If you ’re considering get a mini , it ’s significant to reexamine their breed info to ensure this energetic wienerwurst is a near fit for your lifestyle .
Mini Australian Shepherd Quick Overview
While the Mini is often call the " Miniature Australian Shepherd , " the breed ’s actual name , as registered with the American Kennel Club , is the Miniature American Shepherd . Because so many masses call these dogs Mini Aussies , we ’ll apply that name here .
Mini Australian Shepherd Characteristics
The Miniature American Shepherd - very often referred to as the Mini Aussie - tends to partake some similarity in appearance and personality with theirAustralian Shepherd cousin-german . However , the breed also possesses some unique characteristics . Other than manifestly being significantly smaller , the mini is a flake longer than they are tall . They somewhat resemble theDachshund , but the difference of opinion between length and height is n’t as detectable in this stock .
Appearance
member of the breed have a thick and compact body social organisation . According to theAKC stock touchstone , these dogs are slightly longer in body length than in peak . dog of either sex incline to weigh between 20 to 40 pounds on average and typically stand between 13 and 18 inches tall at the shoulder joint . They aresubstantially smallerthan regular Australian Shepherds .
They have a rounded , medium - distance muzzle and triangular capitulum that sit nigh to the school principal . Some Mini Aussies are born with a natural bob , whereas others are wear with a long , feathery tail . However , stock breeder often tail their puppies ' tails in brief after nativity , where this procedure is permitted .
Eyes can order in color from brown to gold or green . It ’s not rare to find minis with heterochromia , or eye of different colour ( typically one blue and one John Brown ) . The MAS has a intermediate - distance yet dim treble coat . potential pelage colors include :
Grooming
Mini Aussies are moderate to heavy spiller due to their double pelage , so they require regular grooming . They have a slow undercoat that typically sheds twice each twelvemonth . You ’ll belike involve to sweep your mini day by day during these shedding seasons , and at least weekly throughout the rest of the year to forestall tangles or matting .
peculiarly hairy mini often benefit from have the hair trimmed around their bottom to keep the region clear . Hair between the toes can sometimes lead to slipping on tricksy surfaces or may become caked with clay or C , so it can be cut back , as well . As with any breed , performroutine nail trimsand ear cleanup to keep your Miniature American Shepherd in point - top soma .
Wash your Miniature American Shepherd once per calendar month with preferent shampoo or more often if they get lousy .
Temperament
Like most members of the Herding Group , Minis are highly intelligent . Members of the strain are also incredibly energetic , affectionate , and obedient . Minis are loyal comrade who are often referred to as " Velcro dogs " because they can become very attached to their possessor . Because of this protective nature , these dogs tend to be aloof with strangers . This can make them excellent ticker frank , but can also make outings or entertaining guests challenging .
start out socializingat a young age to reduce any waver with unknown people , tike , dogs , or other pets . The Miniature American Shepherd - also known as the Mini Aussie - does very well with minor and other animals if expose early in living .
Exercise Requirements
Despite their small sizing , these dogs are bundle of energy , which means they have relatively high exercise requirements . You ’ll need to provide your mini with at least 60 to 90 minutes of physical activity each twenty-four hour period . This can be made up of afew long walks , several short outings , off - leash play , run , hiking , swim , disk play , agility training , or herding .
In addition to physical needs , Mini Aussies postulate adequate genial foreplay . Dog play are a great way to fulfill both of these needs . Enrichment games , teaser plaything , or even interactive feederscan also be great for these busy dogs . Keep in idea , a bored mini can easily become a destructive mini . This is n’t a breed who will simply doze on the lounge ; you ’ll need to dedicate several hours each day to your companion .
Training
Given their intelligence and eager - to - please nature , these detent are wanton to cultivate . They learn queues very quickly and can be trained to perform undertaking well beyondbasic trick . However , these dogs can be headstrong , so begin training at an early age .
Although these hot dog love kid , they may begin twinge at ankles due to their herding mentality , which will require further breeding .
Health Concerns
Even though they seem to be bouncy little dogs , Mini Aussies are susceptible to several transmitted health conditions .
History and Origin of the Breed
The Miniature American Shepherd is often incorrectly called the Miniature Australian Shepherd , though at one time this was an appropriate name for the stock . These dogs were reportedly breed in California from smaller Australian Shepherds with the end of retaining theherding breed’sintelligence and abilities , only make water the detent humble overall . The miniskirt reached its desired compact sizing sometime in the sixties .
For the follow few ten , these dogs were have it away as Miniature Australian Shepherds . It was n’t until 1993 that the stock ’s name was change to Miniature American Shepherd . In 2015 , the MAS was officially recognized as a distinct stock by theAmerican Kennel Club ( AKC ) . Today , they still crowd small livestock , but are most often companion animals in households across the globe .
The name mental confusion feed deep with this stock : The original Mini Aussie spawn club , theMiniature American Shepherd Club of the USA ( MASCUSA ) , decided to change its name and drop " Australian " when the AKC quest it , because they did n’t need two alike strain read in competition .
Fun Facts About the Mini Aussie
Where to Buy or Adopt a Mini Australian Shepherd
If you ’ve decide you ’d like to observe a miniskirt of your own , there are a few place you’re able to lead off your lookup . TheMASCUSA offers a breeder directory , as does theMiniature Australian Shepherd Club of America . TheAKC Marketplaceis also a popular directory that features available litters across the country .
Although these organisation extend resources for prospective possessor , they still recommend possessor do thoroughgoing research to find an ethical and responsible stock breeder . Most breeders should have hereditary testing done on both parents to prevent passing down harmful diseases . you’re able to expect to devote between $ 900 and $ 1,500 for a well - bred pup .
take up a miniskirt in need is another selection you may conceive . The Miniature American Shepherd Club of the USA has aMiniature American Shepherd Rescuethat aid send frank of this breed who have been surrendered . Through the Petfinder program , you may also search for adoptable dogs base on breed .
FAQs About the Mini
The abide by are answers to commonly asked questions :
Pros and Cons of the Miniature Australian Shepherd
The following are pros and cons of this breed :
Is the Miniature Australian Shepherd Right for You?
If you make out the personality , trainability , and lovely appearance of the standard Australian Shepherd but would favour a small rendering , the Miniature American Shepherd may be the perfect dog for you . However , these dry pint - sized dearie can be even more energetic than their larger relatives . Review their encompassing grooming requirements and exercise needs before settling on this dog . If you ’re up for the challenge , you might find that they ’re the ideal fit for your household . If you ’re searching for herding dog breeds , take a loot atother breed in this categoryto control this is the right fit for you .
