Miniature Australian Shepherd
The Miniature Australian Shepherd has a life expectancy of 12 to 13 years.
Origin
The Miniature Australian Shepherd is a bred down version of the Australian Shepherd. Although the name may imply differently, the Australian Shepherd was not developed in Australia, but North America. During the California Gold Rush of 1849, Australians traveled to America, bringing their sheepherding dogs with them. Farmers and ranchers bred the dogs and eventually created the Australian Shepherd to herd cattle and do other jobs.
The Miniature Australian Shepherd was created quite a few decades later in the 1960s. A California-based woman received numerous Australian Shepherds from the rodeo circuit. The dogs were smaller than Australian Shepherds she had previously seen. She worked with a local veterinarian to create a breeding program to retain the smaller stature, but preserve the temperament of the Australian Shepherd. Eventually they began producing Miniature Australian Shepherds.
Size
The Miniature Australian Shepherd weighs 20 to 40 pounds and measures 13 to 18 inches.
Grooming Needs
The Miniature Australian Shepherd has a thick, weather-resistant double coat appearing in black, red, blue merle and red merle. Miniature Australian Shepherds are average shedders that shed more heavily during the spring and fall. They should be brushed weekly and bathed only when necessary. Miniature Australian Shepherds should also be blow dried following each bath due to their thick coats.
Like all dogs, the Miniature Australian Shepherd also needs basic grooming. Brush their teeth, clean their ears and trim their nails on a regular basis.
Character
The Miniature Australian Shepherd is a loyal friend and protector.
Temperament
The Miniature Australian Shepherd craves attention and thrives on lots of it from their family. The Miniature Australian Shepherds grows quite attached to their family and always wants to be with them. They especially adore children and get along well with other dogs and family pets. Miniature Australian Shepherds are so devoted to their loved ones that they can develop separation anxiety if ignored or left alone for too long.
Although the Miniature Australian Shepherd is affectionate and kind with their family, they are shy with strangers and can be territorial. Miniature Australian Shepherds are natural guardians and want to protect their family and home from any threat.
Training Needs
The Miniature Australian Shepherd is eager to learn and eager to please. The Miniature Australian Shepherd is also quite smart which makes it easy for them to pick up obedience training and go on to compete in activities like herding, Flyball and agility. As part of their training, the Miniature Australian Shepherd needs early socialization to help them overcome any shy or territorial behavior.
Activity Level
The Miniature Australian Shepherd thrives on an active lifestyle. The Miniature Australian Shepherd needs mental and physical stimulation in the form of long walks, playtime, running around and games. They especially like having a job to do and are great for farm and ranch life where they can help with daily chores.
