The Wonderful Miniature Australian Shepherd!
The Mini Aussie as the name implies is a smaller version of the Australian Shepherd, with the same attentive and
energetic temperament, high intelligence and natural reserve with strangers.
They range in height from 14" to 18" at the shoulder, usually 20 to 35lbs.
Their eager working attitude makes them easy to work with and the higher energy makes obedience training a must.
Aussie's were bred to herd and this encourages them to bond quickly with their human families. They make excellent companions but like any dog early socialization to strangers, other animals, new situations and surroundings are very
important.
Mini Aussie's excel in many activities. Owner and dogs have had much pleasure working together in conformation, agility, flyball herding and just about anything you would like to try.
Very athletic, this makes them great companions for the outdoor enthusiast. They love to be included in all family activities. As long as they are with you he is happy.
Mini Aussie's are a very healthy breed but with all breeds there are health issues that need to be tested for and affected dogs eliminated from breed programs. Hip and eye testing are very important, and more important is not using the effected in a program.
Mini Aussies are wonderful with children. This requires both dog and child to be well trained and supervised at all times. Adult supervision will make their relationship a safer one. Min's are a herding breed, remember that they may be inclined to chase after, even trip small children.
Most Mini Aussies are excellent watch dogs and will alert the owner when someone is approaching. Guarding however is very different, they Do Not make good guard dogs!
They will bark to let you know somone is around but should never show aggression. They can be cautious around new people and perhaps a bit reserved.
While they are a smaller dog, they can have a higher energy level and may require a fair bit of exercise. He does best if not left alone for long periods of time unless your home time revolves around exercising or time spent teaching tricks etc.
They do love a place to run free. Some even enjoy swimming and playing fetch is a great way to expend energy. An under exercised or mental stimulated Mini may get into trouble if he has energy left to burn.
They require brushing once a week on average, this helps get the dead hair out and there is less left to fly about the home. The length and fullness of the coat may require more or less. Males tend to have more coat than females. The breed needs minimal trimming, perhaps feet and ears, however the nails need to be done every 2 wks.
They come in the colours of blue merle, red merle, black tri, and red tri. all with or without copper highlights.
"Miniature Australian Shepherds are pure bred, not mixed with any other breed, we are however not registered nor accepted by the Canadian Kennel Club."
The breed clubs are MASCA (Miniature Australian Shepherd Club of America) NAMASCUSA (North American Miniature Australian Shepherd Club of USA) NSDR (National Stock Dog Registry)