Miniature Australian Shepherd

As the name suggests, the Miniature Australian Shepherd (also known as the “North American Shepherd”) is a scaled-down version of the familiar Australian Shepherd. However, at a height of 14 to 18 inches at the shoulder, this is not a “teacup” anything but rather a sturdy, mid-sized herding dog that needs regular exercise and an outlet for its energy. In fact, the breed standard accepted by ARBA (the American Rare Breed Association) disqualifies “Toy-like features” and describes the breed’s character as “…intelligent, [and] primarily a working dog of strong herding and guardian instincts.”

The Miniature Australian Shepherd was developed during the 1960s by a Californian who acquired several full-size Aussies from the rodeo circuit, where they were popular trick performers. This diminutive Aussie displays all of the characteristics of its larger brethren, including an attentive, energetic personality, high intelligence and eagerness to work. Like all herding breeds, the Mini Aussie benefits from early obedience training and moderate daily exercise to harness its abundant energy.

The Miniature Australian Shepherd has a trademark naturally or docked bobtail. It is a well-balanced, medium-sized agile dog. Ideally, males should be 14 to 18 inches tall at the withers; females, 14 through 17 inches. The Mini Aussie’s most striking coat pattern is the swirly blue merle coat, but this Little Blue Dog also comes in red merle, black and red–all often with copper or white trim. Its coarse, double coat requires thorough brushing twice weekly. This little herder, although reserved with strangers, adores participating in activities with its family, and makes a gentle playmate for children and other pets.

Group: Rare

Country of Origin: USA

Size: Medium Dog Breed

Color: Blue merle, red merle, black or red, all often with copper or white trim

Coat: Coarse, double coat

Grooming: Brush twice weekly

Life Expectancy: 14 to 16 years

AKC Group: Rare

Height: Ideally, males should be 14 to 18 inches tall at the withers; females, 14 to 17 inches.

Weight: Approximately 20 to 40 pounds.

There are several national clubs for the breed whose websites you can visit to learn more about Mini Aussies, find out about upcoming rare-breed shows where you can see them live, and locate breeders in your part of the country.

By: Chewy Editorial