Miniature American Shepherd

• Height: 14-18 inches (male), 13-17 inches (female)

• Weight: 20-40 lbs

• Lifespan: 12-13 years

  
  
  

About the Mini American Shepherd

The Miniature American Shepherd is a breed that closely resembles the smaller version of the Australian Shepherd. Despite their compact size, these dogs are natural herders, having an innate drive to work and are known for their loyalty as affectionate companions. They also possess a natural affinity for horses.

This pint-sized herding dog shares many traits with their Australian Shepherd ancestors, but they stand between 13 and 18 inches tall. They have striking coats in black, blue merle, red, or red merle variations and possess the typical energy and intelligence of herding breeds. They move gracefully, even on challenging terrain.

Some are even smaller and are called 'Toy Australian Shepherds.' They have distinctive physical features such as a flat back, triangular ears, and various eye colors. Their coat is weather-resistant and comes in black, red, red merle, or blue merle with white markings.

To keep these dogs healthy, it is essential to provide them with a high-quality diet that is appropriate for their age, ensuring they don't gain excess weight. Regular exercise is also crucial, but these adaptable dogs can thrive in various lifestyles, even in urban environments, as long as they get enough physical activity and mental stimulation.

Grooming for this breed involves regular brushing to manage shedding, especially during seasonal shifts, preventing mats and keeping their appearance at its best. Basic care such as nail trimming is also necessary for their overall well-being.

Socialization and training from an early age are recommended to tap into their intelligence and eagerness to learn. They excel in various canine activities such as obedience and agility, showcasing their versatility and agility.

The breed is generally healthy, and responsible breeding practices prioritize health testing to maintain the breed's unique qualities. Regular vet checkups and preventive measures are necessary to ensure their long and healthy lives.

This breed, slightly longer than tall with a moderate build, embodies intelligence, agility, and a strong desire to please, making them exceptional companions with a protective streak toward their family. Their adaptability and herding instincts shine through in various situations.

The Australian Shepherd breed originated in the American Southwest, despite its name. It was developed for its functionality rather than looks and gained popularity after being featured in rodeos and films such as 'Run Appaloosa Run.' Miniature Australian Shepherds were created by selectively breeding smaller Aussies to achieve a smaller size, high energy, and endurance. Mini Aussie breeding was pioneered by Doris Cordova, Sally and Bill Kennedy, and Chas Lasater.

The Miniature Australian Shepherd is known for its high intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate nature. They form strong bonds with their families, exhibiting puppy-like behavior. They are easily trainable, excel in sports such as herding and agility, and love mental challenges. They are not aggressive but are wary of strangers due to their territorial nature and have a natural herding and guarding instinct.

Minimal grooming is needed for Miniature Australian Shepherds, but regular combing during shedding is essential. Baths should be limited. They thrive in various climates and have a lifespan of 12-13 years. Aussies love outdoor activities and excel in dog sports, making them great companions for active individuals. They can also adapt well to apartment living with proper exercise.

History of the Mini American Shepherd

The history of the Australian Shepherd breed is quite complicated, involving multiple breed clubs and changes in recognition. It all started in the late 1800s when settlers from different regions brought their herding dogs to North America during land rushes.

The breed was officially recognized in 1957 by the Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA). However, it took until 1993 for the American Kennel Club (AKC) to acknowledge it because of different standards and priorities between the clubs.

The breed's ancestors are believed to be from the Basque Region or Germany, with influences from Spanish sheepdogs and other herding breeds like the Scotch Collie, Border Collie, and English Shepherd.

Europeans, including shepherds from different countries, migrated to North America, bringing their herding dogs to manage the sheep flocks that came with them. Even though sheep and dogs did come from Australia, the Australian Shepherd's ancestors are thought to be from the Basque Region of Spain or Germany, with debates about the Spanish connection. Basque dogs were significantly different from today's Australian Shepherds, likely resulting from breeding with other herding dogs in Australia, possibly including German Tigers.

Australian Koolies from Germany, also known as German Coolies, share more similarities with Australian Shepherds than Basque dogs. They had merle markings in various colors, solid red and black coats, often with white markings. Other breeds like Scotch Collies, Border Collies, and English Shepherds are also believed to have contributed to the Australian Shepherd's gene pool.

Interestingly, the Australian Shepherd was developed in America by stockmen who valued its herding abilities and practical traits. Contrary to its name, the breed isn't recognized in Australia.

The Miniature Australian Shepherd's roots are intertwined with the Australian Shepherd. Breeders aimed to create a smaller version suitable for house life and easier travel. The breed's journey included various clubs and name changes until it gained recognition from different associations.

Miniature Australian Shepherds, later known as Mini Aussies, emerged from the Australian Shepherd breed. Doris Cordova initiated breeding smaller Australian Shepherds in 1968, envisioning a compact version (under 17 inches) with the same traits but suitable for households and easier to transport to stock shows. Cordova's kennel, particularly "Cordova Spike," played a pivotal role. Bill and Sally Kennedy continued the work at their B/S kennels. Simultaneously, Chas Lasater of Valhalla Kennels also contributed to the development of Mini Aussies.

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.

Ultimately, there are now three distinct breeds: Australian Shepherd, Miniature Australian Shepherd, and Miniature American Shepherd (or "North American Shepherd"). However, not all breeders have embraced the new names or standards, adding complexity for those seeking a specific type of dog.