REGISTERED MINIATURE AMERICAN SHEPHERDS

“Mini Aussies”

The Miniature American shepherd is a small- to medium-size herding dog breed from the United States that has a medium-length double coat and resembles a smaller version of the Australian shepherd. In fact, the mini American shepherd was bred down from the Aussie and still possesses the athleticism and intelligence of its larger cousins. These small dogs can be quite adventurous and adaptable, and they enjoy an active lifestyle. 

 

The miniature American shepherd generally has a lively and loyal temperament. It is a friendly, playful breed that loves people and even other dogs. Its temperament also is marked by its high intelligence and ability to learn various tricks.

 

The creation of the miniature American shepherd is closely tied to that of its larger cousin, the Australian shepherd. Both breeds emerged in California in the 1960s. The predecessor of both breeds was a type of herding dog from the Pyrenees Mountains that came to the U.S. by way of Australia. California ranchers admired the dogs and referred to them as Australian shepherds, or Aussies.

Some people began purposely breeding smaller Aussies, and they became popular on the rodeo circuit. They had the stamina and herding skills of their larger counterparts but were more portable and suitable for indoor living. By the mid-1970s, there was a consistent version of mini Aussie, as the dogs were called at the time. The name later was changed as people pursued a separate breed recognition. The American Kennel Club first recognized the breed in 2015.

 

BREED OVERVIEW

HEIGHT:

Female:13 to 17 inches

Male: 14 to 18 inches

WEIGHT: 20 to 40 pounds

COAT: Medium-length double coat

COAT COLOR: Blue, blue merle, red, or red merle with or without white markings and/or tan points

LIFE SPAN: 12 to 13 years

TEMPERAMENT: Intelligent, active, playful

HYPOALLERGENIC: No

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