However, do not let this dogs small size fool you; he is a lot of work. Please see our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy pages for more information. The MAS has a medium-length yet dense double coat. Watch Dogs, in fact, youll notice that theyre always active and alert, so no worries about strangers invading your home when you have an Aussie around the corner. Hair between the toes can sometimes lead to slipping on slick surfaces or may become caked with mud or snow, so it can be trimmed, as well. They are energetic but dont have the size to herd cattle. 2. There are both pros and cons of owning an Australian Shepherd. For more information, click the video below: https://thehappypuppysite.com/australian-shepherd-temperament/, https://facty.com/network/answers/things/what-are-the-pros-and-cons-of-an-australian-shepherd/, https://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/reviews/australianshepherds.html, https://www.thesprucepets.com/breed-profile-australian-shepherd-1117935, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rcESyhbP8E, 1818 N Vermont Ave Australian Shepherd Dogs: Personality & Characteristics. So, you will need to provide them with a 30 min long walk and at least an hour and a half of good exercise every day. Many different factors influence your dogs final adult weight: The Mini Aussie reaches its adult size between one and two years of age. Despite their high energy levels and exercise needs, Mini Australian Shepherds can be perfect for active families. For instance, Alex (@miniatlasadventures) will provide us with their experience owning an Aussie. It is important to do your research when adopting a miniature dog; getting to know your breeder and puppy before adoption is important. These breeders mate genetically faulty dogs, which often lead to deaf and blind Mini Aussies puppies. The Australian Shepherd is an athletic medium-sized dog with a strong guarding and herding instinct. Actually, they are the same dog! because AKC doesn't recognize 'mini's' they have changed the name to american shepherd and are now These puppies were then imported into the United States and called Australian Shepherds. A Mini Aussie can keep an active family entertained for hours on end. Australian shepherds Did someone say Australian shepherds? List of Miniature As a result, most of the Merle-colored Mini Australian Shepherds suffer severe vision and hearing conditions. Another disadvantage of owning a Mini Aussie is that they can be prone to separation anxiety. 9 Rare Mastiff Breeds That Are Large and in Charge. Mini Australian Shepherds may look very cute and endearing, but they are not the most affectionate pooch around. Marvelous Dogs is the worlds best resource for dog owners who want to raise healthy and happy dogs. Playful . It can include other dogs, cats, children, and even birds. You will need to give your dog enough of both to keep his mind and body satisfied. Use a comb to brush their hair in the direction you want it to grow. This means that they are not ideal for apartment living or for families that are not active. Herders and ranchers in the American south soon fell in love with this dog. 1. You will need to spend up to 90 minutes a day to exercise and play with this breed. If your mini Australian shepherds are around other animals that shed a lot, they may start to shed too. Australian Shepherd Mini, Find Mini Australian Shepherd in Dogs & Puppies for Rehoming | Find dogs and puppies locally for sale or adoption. This breed is also prone to hip dysplasia and epilepsy. According to the AKC breed standard, these dogs are slightly longer in body length than in height. Helping keep watch over the house and the yard. However, expect more shedding during the spring season. She is pure bred, 100% Aussie as per Wisdom Panel DNA. A hard days work is how this little farmhand shows its love. These dogs have many names: Mini American Shepherd, Mini Australian Shepherd, Mini Aussie Dog, Minnie Aussie, or MAS. If the dog is well-trained, he can learn almost anything because an Australian Shepherd is one of the smartest dog breeds. Australian Shepherds are known for their herding instinct. Because so many people call these dogs Mini Aussies, we'll use that name here. In 2015, the MAS was officially recognized as a distinct breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC). WebAustralian Shepherds bred for herding/performance are usually smaller, with a more lithe, agile build, and a shorter coat. Australian Shepherds are one of the smartest dog breeds and can easily pick up anything you try to teach them. Another advantage of owning a Mini Aussie is that they make excellent watchdogs. WebOne of the biggest cons of owning a Mini Australian Shepherd is their high energy levels and exercise needs. If you require such advice, we recommend consulting a licensed financial or tax advisor. We want to provide dog lovers with the best information about dog breeds, care and welfare. Australian Shepherd Size and Weight Guide. I own a Toy Australian Shepherd. They will however try herding children and smaller animals like cats, chickens and ducks. If you think you want a Mini Shepherd of your own, then read on for a complete guide to this fun little farmhand. In 1968 a lady named Doris Cordova decided to shrink the Australian Shepherd to a more compact size, but without compromising the qualities it already had. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 2023 LoveToKnow Media. Dogs with heterochromia will have two different eye colors. Hes such an affectionate cuddly sweetheart. The breeder needed to wait a while for the desired outcome. Other than obviously being significantly smaller, the mini is a bit longer than they are tall. What Kinds Of Raw Meat May I Give My German Shepherd? This type of dog requires an owner who can capitalize on its intellectual prowess and if youre that person and if you think you can provide what it takes, then look no further. Sometimes surgery is required. The Miniature American Shepherd - also known as the Mini Aussie - does very well with children and other animals if exposed early in life. Pros and Cons of Owning a Toy Australian Shepherd. 11 Facts About Australian Shepherds, With Pics! Merle fur patterning is the result of specific genes. So its crucial to be extra careful when purchasing a Mini Aussie. Marvelous Dogs 2023 - All Rights Reserved, Mini Australian Shepherd vs Miniature American Shepherd, Mini Australian Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd. The Australian Shepherd was first bred from Pyrenean Shepherds. Also, Avoid getting a Mini Aussie if theyre white. Today, they still herd smaller livestock, but are most often companion animals in households across the globe. Particularly hairy minis often benefit from having the hair trimmed around their bottom to keep the area clean. These dogs are smart and enjoy having a function to fulfill. Are Australian Shepherds couch potatoes? Although their tireless attitude lends itself to an active lifestyle with their dog owner, they can have a softer side where they show affection and love to family members. Herding behavior may show as pushiness or bullying and he may try to herd small children. Because of this protective nature, these dogs tend to be aloof with strangers. Third, feed your mini Australian shepherds a high-quality diet that contains plenty of fiber. In spite of his small size, he is perfectly capable of keeping livestock in line. When the breed became popular in the state of California, it was mistakenly believed to have come from Australia. WebPros: Smart, athletic, low maintenance coat compared to many breeds, compact, loving Cons: Will need socialization efforts more than many breeds at a young age and through out their life to be a well balanced and sociable dog. Patellar luxation is one of the most common joint disorders for many small and teacup-sized dogs. Possible coat colors include: Mini Aussies are moderate to heavy shedders due to their double coat, so they require regular grooming. Naturally, the Australian Shepherd has been a member of the American Kennel Clubs Herding Group since 1993. Fortunately Mini Australian Shepherds learn very quickly. He is the 34th most popular breed in the United States. They learn queues very quickly and can be trained to perform tasks well beyond basic tricks. Intelligent. This is something that should be considered before bringing a Mini Aussie into your home. When it comes to colors, those include blue Merle, black and tan, red Merle, and black. Minis were simply the smallest possible size for a standard sized Australian Shepherd. The name confusion runs deep with this breed: The original Mini Aussie breed club, the Miniature American Shepherd Club of the USA (MASCUSA), decided to change its name and drop "Australian" when the AKC requested it, because they didn't want two similar breeds registered in competition. As a herding breed, these dogs need to have physical exercise, as well as mental stimulation in order to stay active. Miniature Australian Shepherd Club of America Miniature American Shepherd Overview Pros Portable size that's good for traveling Very affectionate Takes Aussies need exposure to unusual sights, sounds, and people. These dogs are highly intelligent, are energetic, and take well to training. Early socialization is super important for this breed. Keep in mind that temperament isnt just the inheritance factor from the parents. These dogs are a high-energy dog that is loyal, affectionate, and family orientated. Pros Excellent at farm work. Will need more exercise than many breeds. Farm work and exercise are not the only things that this adaptable dog is capable of. As herding dogs, it should come as no surprise that Australian Shepherds are extremely smart dogs. For a fun way to train your puppy, and keep his body and mind in great shape, try setting up a backyard obstacle course. Dog sports are a great way to fulfill both of these needs. He will also need a secure, fenced in area to run around and play during the day. You may need to do a thorough grooming every week to remove any matted clumps or excess hair. But the Australian Shepherd can range from police to being aloof with strangers. High-energy dogs are meant to be exercised daily. Even Though the names suggest Miniature Australian Shepherd, the breed is actually from the United States. He fits into smaller homes much more easily than a full sized herder. Theyre also known for their beautiful coats, so make sure to give them a good brushing every week to keep them clean. Other health issues can consist of hip dysplasia, a malformation in some dogs hip socket. Mini Australian Shepherd Guide: Puppies, Popularity, Size 3. She plays basketball and puts her toys away by name. Mini Australian Shepherds eyes can be brown, blue, or amber. When not exercised or given enough stimulation, these dogs can get into all kinds of trouble. If you live in the city, you and your pooch will spend a lot of time at the park. When researching the Mini Australian Shepherd, you have probably come across a lot of search results that include the Mini American Shepherd breed. The coat is of moderate length and average coarseness. Some Aussies are prone to becoming overweight, so you need to watch how much you feed him and the calorie count. His rounded and floppy ears are known as rose ears. Aussies have a lot of hair, which means youll be doing a lot of grooming. All rights reserved. An adult Mini Aussie dog needs 2-3 cups of kibble a day, at 1-2 cups per meal. Alex shared that Aussies tend to be extremely loyal dogs who love to please their owners. Any Aussies shorter than 14 inches are considered to be Toy Australian Shepherds. If youre not an active person, I would not recommend this breed for you as they do require daily walks and training to have a well-balanced dog. It will never need cutting. A healthy mini Australian shepherd will not need to be vaccinated as often as a dog that is not well-groomed or has a dirty coat, but a regular vet check-up is always a good idea. A smaller than average body also makes the dog susceptible to metabolic disorders such as hypothyroidism. Australian Shepherds are excellent watchdogs because of their innate protective streak. They are a working breed, which means they require both physical AND mental stimulation. One of my favourite things about the breed is that their super handler focused and will do everything they can to make their person happy. Many owners wish that their dog could stay a cute puppy forever. German Shepherd Everything You Need to Know. Can be trained to perform a wide variety of duties. If you have concerns about your pups weight, consult with the vet. You always need to have fresh, clean water available. They are high-energy You will need to keep the ears clean to avoid any ear infections. Reign in an easily distracted dog by making sure that training takes place in a quiet and secure area. Requesting the parents paperwork and health records is also a good idea. If you dont think you can put in the time and effort into daily training or walking, I would suggest to look at another breed. It simply means learning to calmly exist around external stimuli. The breed forms a strong bond with his owner and is eager to please. Still, his instincts mean that he can be quite a handful. The mini and toy versions of Australian Shepherds were derived in America. Mini Black & White Australian Shepherds gets to a height of 13 to 18 inches (33cm to 45.7cm) tall at the shoulder and weigh between 30 and 40 pounds (13.6kg to 18.1kg) when fully grown. She weighs 7 lbs. They are a breed that requires a lot of physical activity to stay healthy and happy. I have a mini Aussie. If you do not provide them with enough exercise, they will be mischievous at home and invent ways to entertain themselves. Most small dogs have longer lifespans than larger breeds. Obedient and Once deafness is diagnosed via a hearing exam, your vet can help you and your dog to manage the condition. If youre thinking about introducing an Australian Shepherd to a home with younger family members, the breed can excel with the right guidance and consistent training. However, these dogs can be headstrong, so begin training at an early age. Epilepsy, or seizure disorder, is one of these conditions. A potential con is that they are known to be a high energy breed. Last updated: Jan 25 2023. Of course, there is no way you will invest their booming barking foreign constant activities they love being outdoors when you take them for a stroll now how is this a disadvantage of having them well if youre a busy pet parent you may not always have the time or energy to play with them so if you The Blue Buffalo adult dry dog food will be a healthy and nutritious food choice for your Australian Shepherd as their active doggos; just see how they jump around in delight. Youll be surprised to see how they excel at agility competition if you train them with proper care and guidance. WebThe mini australian shepherd and american shepherds are the same breed. WebDog Breed Reviews: Honest Reviews of 180 Dog Breeds. What Are the Pros and Cons of an Australian Shepherd? An Aussie needs frequent exercise more than many other breeds of dogs. While the Mini is often called the "Miniature Australian Shepherd," the breed's actual name, as registered with the American Kennel Club, is the Miniature American Shepherd. Although their breed name references Australia, they can trace their history back to the Pyrenees Mountains in the borderlands between France and Spain. It is one of the few small dogs that can play safely with larger breeds, but does not play very well with smaller dogs. Rodeo fans wanted an Australian Shepherd that they could easily travel with. He loves all people and all dogs. Use a shampoo designed for dogs to clean their coat. The Mini American Shepherd Club of North America was founded in 2011. Mini Aussies are very friendly and make great pets for families with children. WebList of Miniature American Shepherd Pros. In fact, the best herding dogs are often smaller, a good example is the Corgi. By fans and breeders this dog is known as a Mini Australian Shepherd. Obedience training at a young age is essential for this breed, as they have a lot of energy. Its because an Aussie loves human companionship and thrives when providing a needed service for his owner. They are also wary of strangers. Australian Shepherds love to spend all their time with their family. Herding dogs are very attentive to their owners and are problem solvers which means they like plenty of activity and complex tasks. Plus, Aussies try to herd cats, which makes the family cats very unappreciative. She is exactly like her larger counterparts, just in a tiny body. By the 1960s, this herding breed had become a rodeo star. This blue heeler mix is very high energy and expects to be put to work. This isn't a breed who will simply snooze on the couch; you'll need to dedicate several hours each day to your companion. Described as remarkably intelligent by the AKC, the breed was ranked 42nd in the Intelligence Of Dogs. These dogs are intelligent and can hoodwink a novice owner. These dogs will often grin and bare their teeth when they're excited. What Places Do German Shepherds Enjoy Being Rushed? Australian Shepherds were bred to be working dogs not simply pets to hang around the house or backyard. Are Australian Shepherds Hypoallergenic? His muzzle is medium sized, slightly rounded and ends in a black or brown nose. If you have younger children, a Mini Aussie is a better option than a full sized. These fur balls are incredibly affectionate and friendly. These dogs are smaller versions of the Australian Shepherd. They are remarkably intelligent and can learn basic to advanced tricks without taking ages. 4. Rodeo lovers in the 60s wanted a travel sized version of the Aussie Shepherd to take with them. After speaking to several dog trainers, they mentioned that a lot of their reactive are working breeds. Australian Shepherds can sometimes get by with less physical exercise A profound predatory drive and inclination to chase. However, breeders often dock their puppies' tails shortly after birth, where this procedure is permitted. While they do have a lot of fur, in my experience, Atlas does not require a lot of grooming. Highly adaptable and trainable. 6. Though it has been bred since the 1960s, the miniature size was not acknowledged by the breed standard or recognized by major kennel clubs until 2011. Pro - Personable. Facts You Need to Know. In fact, theyre ranked 12th in terms of the most popular dog breed in the USA. Australian Shepherd Minis: Hypoallergenic Or Not? Both breeds have the same fur colors, temperament and care needs. This dog is better built for a life indoors than its full sized siblings, but, this does not mean that it is an indoor dog. Given their intelligence and eager-to-please nature, these dogs are easy to train. Blue French Bulldog Breed Information, Pictures & Facts, What Is A Shorkie? An Aussies coat is medium to long with colors ranging from blue merle, red merle, red or black. The Australian Shepherd is said to have sprung from these dogs. This allows him to work well in different and cold climates. But We support our readers with informative reporting and thorough research to help find the best ways to enhance the lives of pets and their owners. Members of the breed are also incredibly energetic, affectionate, and obedient. Australian Shepherds were bred to be working dogs not simply pets to hang around the house or backyard. These smaller sized dogs were known by breeders as Mini Australian Shepherds until the 2010s. Facts, Traits, Personality & More. Australian Shepherds are slightly more popular than Minis as the 17th most popular dog breed in the US. 3. They come in a variety of colors and sizes, and they make great family pets. Set aside 45 minutes for walking and spend the rest of the time for training and play. By selectively breeding the smallest Aussies this miniature version was created. In some cases, a mini dog is produced by pairing a large and a small breed together. He can fit into smaller family homes that his full sized sibling may not be able to. Any owner who values their time on the couch should not consider this dog. Although these organizations offer resources for prospective owners, they still recommend owners do thorough research to find an ethical and responsible breeder. WebThey are great playmates for children, and they will keep your family protected. Still, this breed will always find a way to make you proud, he absolutely thrives off his owners approval. They are intelligent, loving, and active dogs that can make great companions for the right person. One of the admirable things about Australian Shepherds is their coats. Despite their adorable appearance, this particular breed is actually quite territorial and wary of strangers, making them excellent guard dogs. It wasn't until 1993 that the breed's name was changed to Miniature American Shepherd. Our team of writers strives to provide accurate and genuine reviews and articles, and all views and opinions expressed on our site are solely those of the authors. 209 651 0237; pros and cons of Australian shepherds. You can avoid your dog from having these issues and get reports from the breeder about the parents recent eye exams. The following are pros and cons of this breed: Pros: Cons: Enjoy most activities with their family : Can become destructive if there isn't enough mental or physical stimulation : Mini Australian Shepherd: Personality & Characteristics. Boredom can lead to excessive barking and very destructive behavior. Pros: Cons: Black Australian Shepherd coats stay looking cleaner for longer as dirt can be hidden in it as they are mainly black. First of all, its important to realize that a mini Australian shepherds coat is designed to be shed. A Mini Aussie is a lot of work, but he is wonderful company. They have a rounded, medium-length muzzle and triangular ears that sit close to the head. They have a thick, double coat that sheds regularly. They come in a variety of colors and sizes, and they make great family pets. The history of the Mini Australian Shepherd begins with the history of the standard Australian Shepherd. This means that they may become anxious and destructive when left alone for long periods of time. One of the most common complaints owners have about their mini Australian shepherds is that they constantly shed.shedding is a natural process that every dog goes through, but there are a few things you can do to help reduce the amount of hair your dog sheds. Australian Shepherds are a herding breed. and is 3 years old. The Mini American Shepherd is the 34th. So: closed, Golden Retriever vs Australian Shepherd Which Dog Should You Get, Pros And Cons Of Bernedoodles Owners Guide & Breed Facts, Pros and Cons of Australian Shepherds Should You Get This Dog, Australian Shepherd Overview What to Expect from these Awesome Dogs, 2. If a full sized Aussie is a little bit too much for you, the Miniature Australian Shepherd may be your best bet. However, the Basque shepherd was on the move again when the herders travelled to the west coast of America where the breed was perfected by California ranchers who dubbed these dogs Australian Shepherds. It will grow at four to six ounces per week until it reaches nine months of age. If youre someone who loves to exercise, whether its going for a jog, hiking in the hills or exploring the seaside, your Australian Shepherd will be the perfect workout buddy. Because of this they can be a high maintenance breed so not every owner may be able to take one on. Mini Australian Shepherds can only weigh between 20 to 40 pounds (9 and 18 kg), while the toy version weighs even less at around 12 to 17 lbs (5 to 8 kg). These dogs strictly need plenty of mental stimulation, as well as physical exercise to stay happy. Australian Shepherds can perform many functions within a family and within society as a whole. May never get along with strangers. Some Aussies have a shorter coat that is easier to care for than other ones. Because the Aussie is so intelligent, your dog will be receptive to training and will learn quickly. Enrichment games, puzzle toys, or even interactive feeders can also be great for these busy dogs. If you can provide them with a lot of outdoor playtime, that will be great, but they also need a lot of indoor playtime, as well. These dogs are happiest when they have a task to perform or kept busy. Atlas did not like being alone at first which is completely normal as a puppy. In this article, well speak to some Australian Shepherd owners to get a firsthand insight into the breed. Most of your puppys growth and development will occur in its first six months of life. Because of this breeds strong herding instinct, getting enough mental stimulation and exercise is essential. Unfortunately, the breeding program wasnt an immediate success. Never underestimate this breed for its size. One of the most unusual and unique dog breeds in existence, these pups are intelligent, loyal, outgoing, fun, and loving. Hip dysplasia is another common issue for this dog breed. These smaller-sized counterparts are also skittish and fearful of strangers and new places, suffer separation anxiety a lot and tend to bite through fear without warning. WebMini Australian Shepherd - Top 10 Facts Pros and Cons of a Mini Aussie Dog Dogs Now 38.4K subscribers Join Subscribe 1K 173K views 2 years ago Mini Australian Shepherd - Aussies are lithe and agile with a solid muscular build without cloddiness. They are also great with children and can make excellent playmates. He bonds to his family closely and may develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. It's so common, in fact, that it can be confusing to refer to these dogs as anything else. Keep children and other family members away until training is finished. However, mini Australian shepherds do have a few disadvantages. Your puppy will learn fast, but only if you are willing to teach and show him until he gets it right. For the following few decades, these dogs were known as Miniature Australian Shepherds. Pros and Cons of Mini Australian Shepherd, Pros And Cons Of Being An Immigration Lawyer, Pros And Cons Of Diep Flap Breast Reconstruction, Pros And Cons Of Bleach Treatment Of Water, Pros And Cons Of Listening To Music While Working, Pros And Cons Of Living In Great Falls Montana, Pros and Cons of Stackable Washer and Dryer, Pros And Cons Of Doing Business In Mexico, Pros And Cons Of Wireless Brake Controller, Pros And Cons Of Living In Westminster Colorado.