Description: The medium-length coat of the Miniature Australian Shepherd is slightly wavy and moderate in length. The coat may be straight or slightly wavy, and should have feathering on the back of the legs, and a mane and frill around the neck. Hair on the head, front of the forelegs and on the outside of the ears is shorter than the rest of the coat. He is compact, well balanced, athletic, and alert. The breed is sensitive, easily trained, guardians, confident, and devoted to their families. He makes a fine companion and will also enjoy working stock.
MAS Height:
14 to 18 inches. Under 14 inches is consider TOY size
MAS Weight: 20 to 40 lbs.
Colors:
Blue merle, black, red merle and all red with or without
white markings and/or tan points. Temperament:
Highly trainable, versatile family dog and companion Watch-dog:
High Care and
Exercise: Regular brushing once or twice a week will help to minimize shedding and keep the
skin and coat healthy. As with any herding dog exercise is
essentially to maintain a healthy, well-balanced dog. Activity:
High Health Issues: Eye
disorders, hip dysplasia, allergies Life Span: 12
- 13 Years Country of Origin:
United States
Australian Shepherds have been registered by various registries since the early 1950's. In 1990, the United States Australian Shepherd Association was established as the parent club of the Australian Shepherd representing the breed to the American Kennel Club. On September 1, 1991, the AKC recognized the Australian Shepherd breed
The Miniature Australian Shepherd was developed in 1968, when
two small Australian Shepherds were bred. He is a scaled down
version of the Australian Shepherd. The goal was to develop a
small herder and guardian who had the qualities of the larger Australian
Shepherd but was smaller in size.
The three most common Registries for the
Miniature is MASCA, NAMASCUSA and NSDR
With Children: Yes, gentle with
children.
With Pets: Yes, good with other pets
Special Skills: Working dog, family pet and therapy dog.
Guard-dog: Medium
Training: A
intelligent breed he enjoys obedience training. Early
socialization is a must.
Learning Rate: High
Living Environment: A
home with a fenced yard is essential. He would do better in a
rural environment as he was bred to herd and guard the flock.
History: The
While there are many theories as to the origin of the Australian Shepherd, the breed as we know it today developed exclusively in the United States. The Australian Shepherd was given its name because of their association with the Basque sheepherders who came to the United States from Australia in the 1800's. The Aussie rose rapidly in popularity with the boom of western riding after World War II, becoming known to the general public via rodeos, horse shows, movies and television. Their inherent versatility and trainability made them useful on American farms and ranches. The American stockmen continued the development of the breed, maintaining the versatility, keen intelligence, strong herding instinct and eye-catching appearance.