Mini Australian Shepherd, otherwise known as Mini American Shepherds, or MAS are a relatively new breed with a fascinating history.
They have been selectively bred from Australian Shepherds to be smaller in size and retain all of the intelligence and working ability of the larger breed.
For anyone looking for a loyal and hardworking companion, or an alternative from the Mini Golden this could be the perfect pup to bring into your home.
Miniature Aussie Shepherds
The Miniature Aussie Shepherd is an extremely intelligent dog that loves to please their owners.
This makes them incredibly easy to train and eager to learn new tricks!
They thrive on human interaction, so they make great family pets, but also love having a job to do like herding or agility courses.
Their high energy levels make them well suited for active homes who can provide plenty of exercise opportunities.
Origins: Where Did They Come From?
Uncovering the fascinating facts of Miniature Aussie Shepherds requires a deep dive into the past.
To begin with, these pint-sized pooches were bred by American ranchers in California as recently as the late 1980s.
The goal was to create small working dogs with all the intelligence and athleticism of their larger counterparts without taking up too much space on a ranch or farm.
This explains why many people compare them to Australian Shepherds—the two share many genes, but not all traits!
Characteristics: What Makes Them Unique?
MAS have a natural instinct to herd and protect; they are loyal and devoted to their owners but tend to be reserved around strangers.
They are highly intelligent and independent dogs with a friendly disposition, making them excellent companions for owners who have an active lifestyle.
They are incredibly athletic and agile which is why they’re often used in agility competitions, flyball events and other canine sports.
Although they may not look like much at first glance, these miniature herding dogs have incredible stamina.
They can easily keep up with larger dogs on long-distance runs or hikes.
Mini Australian Shepherd Size
The standard size for an adult MAS is between 13-18 inches at the shoulder when fully grown.
That’s much smaller than a typical Australian Shepherd which typically ranges from 18-23 inches at the shoulder.
Miniature Aussie Shepherds are also usually between 20-40 pounds as adults, which makes them perfect for those living in apartments or other small spaces.
Though they’re small in stature, Miniature Aussie Shepherds still have plenty of energy and need regular exercise like any other herding breed.
Mini Australian Shepherds Lifespan
On average, most Miniature Aussie Shepherds live between 12 – 15 years.
However, some can outlive this expectancy with proper care and nutrition.
The best way to ensure a Miniature Aussie Shepherd lives its longest life possible is by providing it with the necessary medical attention.
- Vaccinations help to prevent illnesses while regular check-ups monitor overall health.
- Additionally, a diet rich in whole foods such as lean proteins, fruits and vegetables will keep your pup energized throughout their life!
- Finally, make sure you give them plenty of exercise to strengthen their muscles and joints for the years ahead.
Temperament: Loyal and Intelligent
When considering the temperament of the Miniature Aussie Shepherd it’s important to remember that each individual pup will have its own unique personality.
Generally speaking though, you can expect an active and eager companion; one that loves outdoor activities like running, playing fetch and taking long walks with you.
They are also highly trainable which makes them great candidates for agility training or even becoming therapy dogs!
Although they may act aloof towards strangers at first, with proper socialization your pup should learn how to interact more confidently with other people as well as different animals.
Care: Grooming & Exercise Needs
When it comes to miniature Aussie Shepherds, the care is similar to that of their full-sized counterparts.
As a dedicated pet owner, I know first-hand how important it is that these active pups receive the best possible care and attention.
The main areas of focus for me are grooming and exercise needs.
Grooming an Aussie Shepherd can be quite time consuming as they require regular bathing and brushing sessions to keep their coats healthy and looking great.
They also need regular nail trims every two weeks or so, plus routine visits with a groomer when needed.
To ensure my pup gets enough exercise each day, I allow him at least two 30-minute walks per day along with some free playtime in our backyard.
Health Issues: Things to Watch For
If you are considering adding a Miniature Aussie Shepherd to your family, it’s important to understand the potential health issues that come with this breed.
With proper care and nutrition, many of these issues can be avoided or managed.
Let’s talk about what things you should watch out for in order to keep your furry friend healthy and happy.
As with any breed of dog, there is an inherent risk of genetic or congenital problems.
Common health concerns in Miniature Aussie Shepherds include hip dysplasia, eye diseases, epilepsy and allergies.
While some may never experience any symptoms from these conditions, knowing the signs can help catch them early on so they can be treated more effectively.
Training & Obedience:Positive Reinforcement
When it comes to training, the most important thing with any dog breed is consistency.
With Mini Aussies, positive reinforcement methods are key when teaching basic obedience commands such as sit, stay and come.
Utilizing treats and reward-based systems can help create a bond between you and your pup while teaching them appropriate behaviors.
Training should start as soon as possible after adoption – puppies learn quickly at this age!
Puppy classes or private lessons with a professional trainer are both great ways to get started in the right direction.
Miniature Aussie Shepherds Cost
If you’re considering getting a mini Aussie shepherd, you may be wondering about the cost of these adorable pups.
The initial cost of purchasing a mini Aussie Shepherd puppy can range anywhere from $500 to $2,000 depending on where you purchase your pup and its lineage.
Additionally, there are other expenses such as necessary vaccinations, spaying/neutering fees, food, and regular vet visits that you should factor into your budget when preparing for ownership.
Conclusion: Truth About Miniature Aussie Shepherds
In conclusion,Miniature Aussie Shepherds are a wonderful breed that can serve as the perfect pet for any household.
They are energetic, loyal, and loving companions. They require regular exercise and training in order to thrive, just like any other dog.
If you’re looking for a fun-loving canine companion that will always be by your side then the Miniature Aussie Shepherd is definitely worth considering.
With patience and dedication, they can become the best addition to your family.
