Miniature Australian Shepherd Dog Breed - All About Dogs

Miniature Australian Shepherd

Miniature Australian Shepherd

MINIATURE AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD

Description:

The Miniature Australian Shepherd was created by breeding smaller Australian Shepherds for the desired size. This is a novice, but already very popular breed, characterized by compact dimensions and excellent working qualities. At the moment, a Miniature Australian Shepherd is not yet officially recognized in the United States.

Height: 14-18 inches  Weight: 17-30 lbs.  Lifespan: 12-15 years

Characteristics:

The Miniature Australian Shepherd is a hardy, strong dog of medium size. He is well-balanced and very mobile. Miniature Australian Shepherds are smart, versatile dogs that combine the best qualities of wonderful companions and working dogs.

Character:

The Miniature Australian Shepherd is affectionate, self-collected, agile and very playful. He is deeply devoted to his family and therefore is an excellent guard. Miniature Australian Shepherds get along well with teenagers; however, due to their advanced herding instincts, these dogs are not suitable for families with small children. This breed is very suspicious of strangers and will warn the owners about their presence. Moreover, the Mini Australian Shepherd tends to behave very aggressively toward other dog breeds.

Coat / Care:

The Miniature Australian Shepherd has a double coat. The outer layer protects the dog from inclement weather, it is of medium length and slightly wavy. The undercoat is short and thick. While the short and smooth hair covers the head, ears and the front surface of the forelegs, the back surface of the forelegs is decorated with long, light feathering. This breed comes in several colors including blue merle, red merle, red and black. Also, the Miniature Australian Shepherd can be tricolored or marked with white or pale, yellow spots. This breed is not too demanding when it comes to grooming. It is enough to periodically clean it with a stiff bristle brush. Bathe your pet only when needed.

Health Problems:

The Miniature Australian Shepherd is generally healthy dog breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to blindness, deafness, eye disease, elbow and hip dysplasia, allergies and epilepsy. This breed’s average lifespan is between 12 and 15 years.

Weight / Height

The Miniature Australian Shepherd dog breed’s height is around 15 – 18 inches and weighs around 20 and 30 pounds. Female Miniature Australian Shepherd dogs can reach a size from 14 – 18 inches and weighs between 17 and 30 pounds.

Training:

Early socialization and obedience training are very important and useful for the Miniature Australian Shepherd. This dog learns quickly, which makes him an excellent student. The coach should be strict, yet fair and patient. Mini Australian Shepherds are very successful in various kinds of sports and are often used in Canistherapy.

Activity:

The Miniature Australian Shepherd requires s a lot of physical and mental stimulation; hence, he needs a job to do. If he feels bored, he will become violent and uncontrollable. This dog loves playing with his family in the fresh air, he enjoys walking on a leash or simply roaming around in a well-fenced yard. Miniature Australian Shepherds can be suitable for apartment living, provided that they exercise intensely.

Photo credit: Richard Masoner/Flickr

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