Although this breed is not common, the Miniature Australian Shepherd has many qualities that a family would find attractive in a pet.
Attractive, intelligent and energetic; mini Aussies are big companions in a small body. The personality of the mini Aussie endears it as much as its teddy bear like appearance.
Physical Description
Miniature Australian Shepherds or mini Aussies are smaller versions of the Australian Shepherd. These dogs usually grow to be between thirteen to twenty inches high and fifteen to twenty pounds. Mini Aussies have a medium length coat that may be blue Merle, red Merle, red tricolor or black tricolor.
Disposition
Mini Aussies are active dogs who love to play. Families with small children will love these dogs and these dogs will love small children. Loyal and loving, these dogs bond well with familiar people. Dog experts recommend that mini Aussies are well socialized as puppies to prevent them from becoming aggressive with strangers.
In order to keep this intelligent breed out of mischief, regular physical activity is necessary. Agility training is an activity that will harness the mini Aussie's boundless energy and quick mind. Other recommended activities for this breed are herding and Frisbee competition.
Health Issues
The Miniature Australian Shepard may be prone to developing a few physical conditions. Hip dysplasia, some eye conditions, and a genetic condition often called Lethal White are potential conditions which may affect the mini Aussie. Hip dysplasia is an inherited deformity. Examination of the hip structure at a young age should detect such deformities. Common eye conditions include corneal dystrophy, distichiasis, or ectopic cilia. These conditions generally do not cause blindness and may be treatable.
The condition of Lethal White is a genetic condition resulting from the breeding of two Merle colored shepherds. Although not every breeding between two Merles results in this disorder, the result is serious when it does occur. Animals with this condition have a high probability of having blindness, heart and liver conditions.
Breed Clubs and Registries
The American Kennel Club (AKC) does not recognize these little dogs as unique from their larger Australian Shepard relatives. However, several organizations do recognize these dogs. The North American Miniature Australian Shepherd Club of the USA, Inc (NAMASCUSA) provides a great deal of information about this breed. Another organization that has a registry for mini Aussies is the National Stock Dog Registry (NSDR.)
The organization, NAMASCUSA , maintains a database of breeders of this adorable breed. Interested individuals may contact this organization to find a breeder of mini Aussies.
The Miniature Australian Shepard is a dog worth researching for a family pet. Small in size but large in personality, the mini Aussie would be an ideal choice for a family looking for an energetic pet.
