He loves all people and all dogs. I brush him every couple of days and only bathe him every couple of months. Still, his instincts mean that he can be quite a handful. They are a breed that requires a lot of physical activity to stay healthy and happy. He has much more energy than other small dog breeds. 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. An Aussie will have a tendency to bark if he is bored or doesnt have enough exercise. These dogs can also become overweight quickly, which is another reason for the need for daily exercise. WebWhat are the pros and cons of spaying and neutering my Australian Shepherd, and when should it be done? Too many people acquire this breed because of its athletic prowess and intelligence, but don't provide enough opportunities for the dog to vent his energy and do interesting things. You need to learn which human foods are safe to feed him and which are not. After all, its mind is already primed to accept new tasks. All Right Reserved. Your puppy will let you know if he is feeling ignored by jumping and barking at you for attention. Facts You Need to Know. The Mini Australian Shepherd is a breed that has a lot of pros and cons. Both wet and dry food should be made from raw, wholesome meat ingredients, with little to no additives or sweeteners. Caring for him is similar to caring for a full-sized version of the breed. Introducing The Full Grown Black Tri Australian Shepherd, What Are The Main Differences Between Blue Heeler Vs Cattle Dog, The Pros And Cons Of Purchasing A Puppy Less Than 100 Dollars. However, your kids must be old enough to handle its energy and exuberance. A very good watchdog. Adopting a mini in need is another option you may consider. All of these sizes are measured at the withers or shoulders: Miniature Australian Shepherds will not grow more than 18 inches tall, and both males and females will weigh around 20 to 40 pounds. Let a Mini Australian Shepherd in, and your household will never be the same again. Males can reach a maximum weight of 25 to 30 pounds and females remain between 15 and 20 pounds. Australian Shepherds were bred to be herding dogs. However, their coat also provides them with insulation, which makes them ideal for colder climates.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'ablison_com-banner-1','ezslot_8',631,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-ablison_com-banner-1-0'); Another disadvantage of their coat is that they may be prone to skin allergies. If youre thinking about getting a mini Australian shepherd, its important to understand their diet. Can be trained to perform a wide variety of duties. First of all, its important to realize that a mini Australian shepherds coat is designed to be shed. 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. Alex shared his experience with taking care of Atlass coat (@miniatlasadventures). WebThey are great playmates for children, and they will keep your family protected. By selectively breeding the smallest Aussies this miniature version was created. Marvelous Dogs articles are intended to be used for a general nature only. This dog will enjoy snuggling with the people he trusts. Loyal companion. However, do not let this dogs small size fool you; he is a lot of work. Alex shared a little more on this subject based upon conversations with dog trainers. Arthritis pain because of wear and tear on the hip joint can cause problems. All rights reserved. After speaking to several dog trainers, they mentioned that a lot of their reactive are working breeds. It is not advisable to breed two merle dogs together. The history of the Mini Australian Shepherd begins with the history of the standard Australian Shepherd. Read more about what we do. is the new trusted website created to help pets and their owners enjoy a happy life together. All the coat colors could have either tan points or white markings. Keeping your mini Australian shepherds coat clean and well-groomed is essential to their health and well-being. Hes extremely cuddly and loves to give kisses! Mini Australian Shepherds were bred over 30 years prior, with the purpose of being small enough to travel easily with rodeo cowboys. Even though these dogs suffer a variety of health problems, they can live up to 12 to 15 years if they are provided with a proper diet and exercise. 209 651 0237; pros and cons of Australian shepherds. These dogs will often grin and bare their teeth when they're excited. WebThe Mini Australian, American Shepherd Guide and Facts. Alex has already taught Atlas (@miniatlasadventures) over 30 tricks! If youre looking for a breed to exercise with you, look no further. Theyre also known for their beautiful coats, so make sure to give them a good brushing every week to keep them clean. Aussies are territorial, and you need to teach your dog where the boundaries are. Australian Shepherds love to spend all their time with their family. Its not enough to just physical exercise an Aussie, but you have to mentally challenge them as well. Adult males stand between 14 and 18 inches tall, while females stand between 13 and 17 inches. A Mini Aussie can keep an active family entertained for hours on end. It is also shaped by how your dog is raised and trained. Australian Shepherds are one of the smartest dog breeds and can easily pick up anything you try to teach them. Other health problems that occur in this breed include: You should feed this dog the same type of food that you would give to a standard sized working breed, but in smaller amounts. Are mini Australian Shepherds good workout dogs? These breeders mate genetically faulty dogs, which often lead to deaf and blind Mini Aussies puppies. 11 Facts About Australian Shepherds, With Pics! See our Affiliate Disclosure page for more information. Keep in mind that temperament isnt just the inheritance factor from the parents. This breed adapts well to families with children and other dogs. One of the most unusual and unique dog breeds in existence, these pups are intelligent, loyal, outgoing, fun, and loving. It is not intended to constitute or replace professional veterinary advice. Atlas did not like being alone at first which is completely normal as a puppy. Due to the Mini Australian Shepherds double coat, they do shed but not a lot, probably not as much as the dogs with similar coats. She is exactly like her larger counterparts, just in a tiny body. The breed forms a strong bond with his owner and is eager to please. If you're searching for an energetic, affectionate companion, the Australian Shepherd could be the right breed for you! Too, just because this breed is susceptible to this disorder doesnt mean that your dog will have it. Do not confuse this breed with a lapdog. Competing in doggie sports and feats of agility. If you are an active person or family that is willing to commit to their exercise needs, then a Mini Aussie may be the perfect dog for you. is the new trusted website created to help pets and their owners enjoy a happy life together. If you have ever owned one, you have probably felt their endless affection. Selectively breed the smallest sized puppies from each litter for many generations. Miniature Australian Shepherd Club of America Miniature American Shepherd Overview Pros Portable size that's good for traveling Very affectionate Takes Weve already touched upon some of their roles as aides to people with disabilities, police, narcotic and search and rescue dogs. Always keep your Aussie on his leash when you walk. However, these pint-sized pets can be even more energetic than their larger relatives. Do not let repetition turn into nagging, or your dog will become bored. Keeps their owner very active. Merle fur patterning is the result of specific genes. Australian Shepherds were bred to be working dogs not simply pets to hang around the house or backyard. The MASCUSA offers a breeder directory, as does the Miniature Australian Shepherd Club of America. Their small size means they dont need as many calories as standard-sized Aussies. 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. They are energetic but dont have the size to herd cattle. However, they also require a lot of physical activity and may be prone to separation anxiety. They thrive with vigorous activity and are versatile. Australian Shepherd Mini, Find Mini Australian Shepherd in Dogs & Puppies for Rehoming | Find dogs and puppies locally for sale or adoption. Some Australian Shepherd owners may struggle with their dog being reactive in certain situations. Aussies become bored quickly and need to be stimulated to stay out of trouble. He fits into smaller homes much more easily than a full sized herder. Hip dysplasia is a genetic malformation in the hip socket. Also, Avoid getting a Mini Aussie if theyre white. They stay active and pay close attention to their surroundings. Separation anxiety is a chronic canine condition that can affect any dog irrespective of breed or mix. They are also wary of strangers. You can avoid some negative traits which dont show up in puppies until later by adopting or rescuing an adult dog from a shelter or rescue. However, expect more shedding during the spring season. They can also thrive as aides to the physically handicapped, police dogs as well as search and rescue dogs. Are Australian Shepherds couch potatoes? She is pure bred, 100% Aussie as per Wisdom Panel DNA. You need to be able to run, hike, swim, play fetch, set up obstacle courses, and even let them track to keep this breed content: the more activity, the better. To be honest, youd be enraptured with their presence around you and your family, wouldnt you? All of these dogs need mental stimulation and physical exercise. They somewhat resemble the Dachshund, but the difference between length and height isn't as noticeable in this breed. However, the most sought after colors for this breed are red and blue merle. Most Australian Shepherds have a wonderful personality, and they get along with other dogs and children. Aussies always have a very expressive face and sometimes appear to smile. Height: 18 to 23 inches So its up to you to keep them busy. He bonds to his family closely and may develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. By fans and breeders this dog is known as a Mini Australian Shepherd. This is why miniaturization has become such a popular trend with dog breeders. Some are eager to please their owners while others arent so eager. One of the most unusual and unique dog breeds in existence, these pups are intelligent, loyal, outgoing, fun, and loving. They come in a variety of colors and sizes, and they make great family pets. Mini adult males stand between 14 and 18 inches tall, and this is six inches smaller than the standard size. Doodles Daily Goldendoodles and Australian Labradoodles, The Best Diabetic Dog Treats for Diabetic Dogs, Probiotics for Dogs Improving Gut Health: Pros and Cons, The Best Pet Owners Guide to the Frenchton, Aussiedoodle: Breed Information and Personality Traits, How to Train Your Goldendoodle on Everything, Few Useful Remedies For Your Labradoodle Ears, Autumn Accessories For Dogs That Will Keep Them Warm, 5 Reasons Why Your Dog Doesnt Respond to Its Name and What to Do, Standard Australian Shepherd (Taller than 18 in, 46 cm), Mini Australian Shepherd (14 to 18 in, 36 to 46 cm), The Mini Australian Shepherd was recognized by AKC in 2015 surprisingly in the name of Miniature American Shepherd.. Because this dog is a herding breed, you may find your dog tends to try to nip people or herd them. We are quickly becoming the resource of choice for all dog owners looking to learn more about their best friend. These dogs are smaller versions of the Australian Shepherd. The Mini Australian Shepherd is not up to par with the regular Australian Shepherd when it comes to fieldwork. Expect to pay around $600 to $1000 for a Mini Australian Shepherd from a reputable breeder. 2023 LoveToKnow Media. Australian Shepherds can develop genetically predisposed eye disease. This results in smaller and smaller dogs over each generation. helloBARK! They are loving and loyal companions that can be easy to train and make excellent family pets. These dogs are herding dogs. A trained Aussie is a happy Aussie. At the same time, you can just take your Aussie for multiple walks a day and throw in some training sessions too. This can be made up of a few long walks, several short outings, off-leash play, runs, hikes, swimming, disc play, agility training, or herding. Weve already spoken about their exercise needs but if youre someone who lacks the energy levels of the Aussie Shepherd, they may not be the right breed for you. However, mini Australian shepherds do have a few disadvantages. Alex shared that Aussies tend to be extremely loyal dogs who love to please their owners. Set aside 45 minutes for walking and spend the rest of the time for training and play. Australian Shepherds are a herding breed. In modern times, this breed can serve as both a family companion and a low intensity working dog. The Miniature Australian Shepherd is the smaller version of the Australian Shepherd dog breed. 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. Finally, its important to keep in mind that mini Australian shepherds are high-energy dogs. They are known for being affectionate with their owners and are often great with children. 1. Given their intelligence and eager-to-please nature, these dogs are easy to train. If your mini Australian shepherds are around other animals that shed a lot, they may start to shed too. They come in a variety of colors and sizes, and they make great family pets. Read them before you decide if this breed is the dog for you. Pyrenean Shepherds were bred by the Basque people of France and Spain. These puppies, too, tend to have severe visual and auditory problems most of the time. Use positive reinforcement training techniques with your Mini Aussie for best results! Their working coats naturally repel a lot of dirt which means I dont have to brush him that often. They are substantially smaller than regular Australian Shepherds. Even small tasks, like carrying sticks or toys, will cater to your dogs workaholic nature enough to keep him happy. An Aussie needs frequent exercise more than many other breeds of dogs. They are naturally protective of their family and will bark if they sense danger. Mini Aussies bark whenever they are excited, confused, alarmed or feeling playful. We want to provide dog lovers with the best information about dog breeds, care and welfare. If you want a couch potato then an Australian Shepherd is not for you. Second, keep their coat clean and well-groomed. You have to take the time and effort into training to get a well-behaved dog. These dogs are smart and enjoy having a function to fulfill. 6. As a herding breed, these dogs need to have physical exercise, as well as mental stimulation in order to stay active. By the 1960s, this herding breed had become a rodeo star. 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 Mini Australian Shepherds work as well in the home as they do on the farm. Thanks for the help on learning about Mini Aussies! These dogs were reportedly bred in California from smaller Australian Shepherds with the goal of retaining the herding breed's intelligence and abilities, only making the dogs smaller overall. Sa: 8:00-14:00 The Mini Australian Shepherd does not like to be stuck inside all day long! Mini Australian Shepherds: A Quick Guide to Their Diet. Farm work and exercise are not the only things that this adaptable dog is capable of. You will need to brush your dog weekly to release matted clumps of hair and excess fur. Plus, Aussies try to herd cats, which makes the family cats very unappreciative. You can expect to pay between $900 and $1,500 for a well-bred puppy. 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. The Mini American Shepherd is the 34th. Fortunately Mini Australian Shepherds learn very quickly. The male weighs in between 50-65 pounds, with the female being between 40-55 pounds. Yet, Australian Shepherds are not for everyone. Enrichment games, puzzle toys, or even interactive feeders can also be great for these busy dogs. However, breeders often dock their puppies' tails shortly after birth, where this procedure is permitted. See also Pros And Cons Of Noise Cancelling Headphones Most small dogs have longer lifespans than larger breeds. Minis are loyal companions who are often referred to as "Velcro dogs" because they can become very attached to their owners. It's not uncommon to find minis with heterochromia, or eyes of different colors (typically one blue and one brown). Mini Australian Shepherds eyes can be brown, blue, or amber. What else would you expect from such loyal and friendly dogs with a softer side? If youre a sedentary person, this breeds intense work drive will be too much dog for you. The Miniature American Shepherd - also known as the Mini Aussie - does very well with children and other animals if exposed early in life. The Miniature Bull Terrier is a small dog with a heart larger than a Great Dane. Australian Shepherds naturally choose someone to be their person and if you are lucky to be chosen then you can definitely count on lots of snuggles and attention from them. Alex shared that Australian Shepherds love being part of a family but will usually pick one person to be their favourite. There are several sizes of Australian Shepherds. Some of them are quick-moving, hyperactive, and energetic. They will however try herding children and smaller animals like cats, chickens and ducks. There are both pros and cons of owning an Australian Shepherd. Australian Shepherds have wonderful personalities and adapt well to families with Underneath his long and fluffy coat he has the muscle definition to prove it! This is common in most mini breeds, popular examples include the Mini Poodle and Miniature Husky. This dog is no couch potato! The coat of a Mini Australian Shepherd is another factor that should be considered. WebMiniature American Shepherd Pros and Cons . Use a shampoo designed for dogs to clean their coat. A profound predatory drive and inclination to chase. If you're searching for herding dog breeds, take a loot at other breeds in this category to ensure this is the right fit for you. What Places Do German Shepherds Enjoy Being Rushed? These fur balls are incredibly affectionate and friendly. In addition to physical needs, Mini Aussies require adequate mental stimulation. If you and your family can respect this dog for the workaholic that he is, he will pay you back. Australian Shepherd Minis: Hypoallergenic Or Not? A potential con is that they are known to be a high energy breed. Theyre moderate shedders who will blow out their undercoat during shedding season. When researching the Mini Australian Shepherd, you have probably come across a lot of search results that include the Mini American Shepherd breed. These dogs are intelligent and can hoodwink a novice owner. A hard days work is how this little farmhand shows its love. Almost all the Aussie coats have tan (copper) points or have white markings. The dogs most lovable quality is his irrepressible and exuberant attitude. This is very important if you want a happy, well-rounded dog. This is a loving and affectionate breed that is lively and playful but also very obedient. I own a Toy Australian Shepherd. Dog sports are a great way to fulfill both of these needs. Youll be surprised to see how they excel at agility competition if you train them with proper care and guidance. If you dont exercise your dog daily, he may become bored, leading to destructive tendencies. 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. Its also important to start training them at a young age. A Miniature Australian Shepherd compared to the regular Australian Shepherds is virtually indistinguishable except for the size they come in. Having a stressful day at work is no problem; your Aussie will greet you at the door and put you in a cheerful mood instantly. Destructive behavior is inevitable if your dog is under stimulated. They have a rounded, medium-length muzzle and triangular ears that sit close to the head. Australian Shepherds have a mind of their own. You need to put in both time and effort into your dogs training. Prior to 2011, the breed was simply called Mini Australian Shepherd. If youre ready to bring one of these highly loving companions to your home, heres what you need to know before doing so. Some Aussies want to be the boss and are stubborn and will make you prove that you are the boss. This eager pooch is fantastic at befriending children and makes a great watchman for your home. This eager little farm dog would rather show its love through hard work than cuddling. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which makes them ideal for first-time dog owners. This is something that should be discussed with a veterinarian before bringing a Mini Aussie into your home. When it comes to shedding, mini Australian shepherds are definitely not your average dog! These are what we recommend for your Mini Australian Shepherd puppy: 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. Many miniature and teacup breeds suffer from health problems that are otherwise uncommon in the breed. He is the 34th most popular breed in the United States. For instance, Alex (@miniatlasadventures) will provide us with their experience owning an Aussie. Pros. WebAustralian Shepherds bred for herding/performance are usually smaller, with a more lithe, agile build, and a shorter coat. In the home, he will do very well as an alert watchdog. Australian Shepherds are extremely loyal dogs with tons of energy that are great for large open spaces in the countryside. These dogs are highly intelligent, are energetic, and take well to training. The Miniature American Shepherd - also known as the Mini Aussie - does very well with children and other animals if exposed early in life. They hang down to just above his muzzle. It is unfair to keep large active breeds in small apartments. The winter coat of an Aussies shed in the spring. He may look cute and cuddly, but he was born for hard work. All rights reserved. They are intelligent, loving, and active dogs that can make great companions for the right person. Here are some tips for grooming a mini Australian shepherd: 1. The Mini Australian Shepherd is the dog breed of choice for most active Americans, and they certainly make great workout buddies. They will more than grateful for it. 3. According to the AKC breed standard, these dogs are slightly longer in body length than in height. Unfortunately, miniaturization can be hard on a dogs body. It depends on their parentage and lines. However, please note that the content provided on our website is for informational and educational purposes only, and should not be considered as professional financial or legal advice. Go out and adopt a Mini Aussie today! No wonder they make amazing family dogs. Copyright 2023 - raylexshepherds.com. He is not sociable by nature, so you will need to train your dog to get along with other people and dogs. Friendly. This breed is also prone to hip dysplasia and epilepsy. He can fit into smaller family homes that his full sized sibling may not be able to. Use a comb to brush their hair in the direction you want it to grow. Because they are highly intelligent, they are also easy to train, in fact, from the first day you get an Aussiedoodle pup you can begin training it. It is impossible to have a bad day when you watch this hyperactive puppy run circles around the yard! 3. Australian Shepherd appeared around the time of the 1840s Gold Rush, as we know it now in the western United States, mainly in Colorado. Also, Aussies tolerate both hot and cold weather. 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. Boredom can lead to excessive barking and very destructive behavior. Other than obviously being significantly smaller, the mini is a bit longer than they are tall. because AKC doesn't recognize 'mini's' they have changed the name to american shepherd and are now From chewing up the furniture, your shoes, or anything else to relentless barking. Herder. If your Mini Shepherd carries a homozygous merle gene, there is a 25% chance that he will be deaf from birth. 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. The mini reached its desired compact size sometime in the 1960s. Aussies are incredibly energetic and require exercise daily. She plays basketball and puts her toys away by name. Consider what you're looking for in your Aussie and decide whether to purchase or adopt. Keep children and other family members away until training is finished. These dogs have many names: Mini American Shepherd, Mini Australian Shepherd, Mini Aussie Dog, Minnie Aussie, or MAS. Epilepsy is diagnosed if the dog suffers two or more seizures within a 24 hour period. WebThis video is about the Australian Shepherd Pros And Cons, the good and the bad. Mini Australian Shepherds need a wide outdoor space to run with reckless abandon. There are two different ways to create a miniature version of a larger breed: There are some benefits to miniaturization besides from just looking cute! If you're considering getting a mini, it's important to review their breed information to ensure this energetic dog is a good fit for your lifestyle. Some Aussies are prone to becoming overweight, so you need to watch how much you feed him and the calorie count. Australian Shepherds are a working breed of dog. Kids should be over the age of six and able to handle a dog safely. Other health issues can consist of hip dysplasia, a malformation in some dogs hip socket. They love to go on walks, hikes, and runs, which makes them an ideal companion for those who enjoy outdoor activities. You may need to do a thorough grooming every week to remove any matted clumps or excess hair. 7. The coat is of moderate length and average coarseness. She can sing and dance. A double merle coat can be beautiful to look at, but unfortunately the gene is associated with deafness and blindness. Were here to help enrich the lives of animals and their families. Outside of Marvelous Dogs, he enjoys trail running and agility work with his working Labrador Retriever. WebOne of the biggest cons of owning a Mini Australian Shepherd is their high energy levels and exercise needs. Although these dogs love children, they may begin nipping at ankles due to their herding mentality, which will require further training. 14+ Pros and Cons of Owning an Australian Shepherd Features of the character of the Australian Shepherd. They have an under and outer coat which means they do shed quite a bit. They are intelligent and easy to train. The ULTIMATE Dog Training Course: http://bit.ly/TopRatedDogTraining The tail is either docked or is naturally bobbed. Breeding the runts of standard sized Australian Shepherds litters for several generations has ensured that this dog will stay adorably puppy sized for its entire life. 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. If I was considering an Australian Shepherd, I would be most concerned about Providing enough exercise and mental stimulation. You need to go over all the pros and cons if youre considering adopting an Australian Shepherd. If fun and fitness is your style, this furry athlete certainly has you covered in that department! You will need to keep the ears clean to avoid any ear infections. Highly adaptable and trainable. An Australian Shepherd has a thick coat with lots of hair. You always need to have fresh, clean water available. Theyve got high energy levels that make them perfect for adventurous dog owners. He is registered as a Miniature American Shepherd under the American Kennel Club. It wasn't until 1993 that the breed's name was changed to Miniature American Shepherd. The Australian Shepherd is an athletic medium-sized dog with a strong guarding and herding instinct.
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