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'Official' Breed Profile
Country of Origin:
The Australian Shepherd (affectionately called an ‘Aussie’) does not
actually originate in Australia. It is believed that some Basque
farmers brought ancestors of these dogs with them when they
emigrated to Australia, then subsequently to the United States
during the 1849 California gold rush. However, the breed as it is
known today was developed in the American Southwest over the next
few decades. The Australian dog was crossed with several breeds in
an effort to produce an animal able to deal with the harsh
temperatures and demands of the American West. Breeding during this
period was mainly focused on ability—speed, agility, and
endurance--rather than appearance, which delayed the Australian
Shepherd’s recognition as a breed. Australian Shepherds became
popular pets after they were featured as rodeos performers in the
1950’s, and later in Disney films such as ‘Run Appaloosa Run’. The
Miniature Australian Shepherd was created by selectively breeding
small Australian Shepherds. It has increased in popularity in the
last few years due to its combination of small size with high energy
level and endurance.
Size:
The Miniature Australian Shepherd has a shoulder height of 35-46 cm
(13-18 in) and weighs 9-18 kg (17-40 lbs). Aussies in the lower end
of that range are sometimes referred to as ‘Toy Australian
Shepherds’. The Miniature Australian Shepherd has highly set,
triangular ears, a moderately defined stop (point at which the
muzzle meets the forehead), a scissors bite, and brown, blue, or
amber eyes (or a combination thereof). It has a flat back, natural
or docked bobtail, and oval feet. The Miniature Australian Shepherd
is slightly longer than it is tall.
Coat:
The Miniature Australian Shepherd’s coat ranges from medium to long,
with a dense undercoat. It can be straight or slightly wavy, and is
highly weather resistant. The coat is short and soft on the head and
legs, with a thick mane around the neck. The Miniature Australian
Shepherd can be black, red, red merle (dark patches on a light
colored background), or blue merle. All may have white markings or
tan points.
Character:
The Miniature Australian Shepherd is intelligent and eager to learn.
It is relaxed, loyal, and devoted, bonding closely with family, even
to the point of developing separation anxiety. Aussies are confident
and lively; they are known to behave like puppies.
Temperament:
The Miniature Australian Shepherd is a great companion for children
and other pets, especially if socialized as a puppy. It can be shy
around strangers, as it is territorial by nature. Miniature
Australian Shepherds are affectionate and kindhearted. They are
easily bored. The Miniature Australian Shepherd can become nervous
and destructive without frequent socialization and proper exercise.
Care:
The Miniature Australian Shepherd requires relatively little
grooming, but a thorough combing is required when shedding. Bathe
only when necessary. Miniature Australian Shepherds can tolerate
warm or cool climates, but must live indoors as they require
constant socialization. Aussies have a life span of 12-13 years and
litters of 5-8 puppies.
Training:
The Miniature Australian Shepherd is fun to train because it learns
quickly and easily. Aussies are unusually eager to please and adept
at a wide variety of sports and games, such as herding, Flyball, and
agility competitions.
Activity:
Not only does the Miniature Australian Shepherd need a lot of
exercise, it needs to be kept occupied. The Miniature Australian
Shepherd is an excellent companion for people that are active,
particularly those who recreate outdoors. Miniature Australian
Shepherds are especially popular in dog agility competitions and
other dog sports. Aussies will do okay in an apartment if
sufficiently exercised.
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