If you think you want a Mini Shepherd of your own, then read on for a complete guide to this fun little farmhand. 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. Heart, bone, and joint problems are all particularly common in miniature and teacup dogs. Just like his full sized counterparts, he is classified under the herding breed group. These dogs are smaller versions of the Australian Shepherd. 3. Any owner who values their time on the couch should not consider this dog. First venturing into the freelance space in 2016, Saleema has since had case reports and peer-reviewed articles published in distinguished journals like The NAVTA Journal and Todays Veterinary Nurse, as well as several articles published at various digital publications. 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 - 2. A high-quality diet will help to keep their digestion healthy and may help to reduce the amount of hair that is shed. Alex had a word of warning to prospective Aussie owners who dont consider themselves to be active people. Overall, mini Australian shepherds are great dogs, and they make great family pets. These dogs are happiest when they have a task to perform or kept busy. 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. 17 Best Guard Dogs for Protection and Family Companionship. Are Mini Australian Shepherds Good Family Dogs? 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. An adult Mini Aussie dog needs 2-3 cups of kibble a day, at 1-2 cups per meal. 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. After all, its mind is already primed to accept new tasks. He loves all people and all dogs. Split his daily kibble into three meals, totaling up to 1 and a half cups a day. We are quickly becoming the resource of choice for all dog owners looking to learn more about their best friend. If your Mini Shepherd carries a homozygous merle gene, there is a 25% chance that he will be deaf from birth. Mini Australian shepherds are one of the most popular dog breeds on the market today. Farm work and exercise are not the only things that this adaptable dog is capable of. However, both the Mini Aussie and larger Australian Shepherd live from 10 to 12 years. Robert Thomas is the Managing Editor of Marvelous Dogs. Other than obviously being significantly smaller, the mini is a bit longer than they are tall. The Miniature American Shepherd Club of the USA has a Miniature American Shepherd Rescue that helps place dogs of this breed who have been surrendered. The tail is either docked or is naturally bobbed. Overall, he is best suited to active families with children who are old enough to keep up with his energy. Working breeds are a lot easier to train than non-working breeds. As with any breed, perform routine nail trims and ear cleanings to keep your Miniature American Shepherd in tip-top shape. If youre ready to bring one of these highly loving companions to your home, heres what you need to know before doing so. is the new trusted website created to help pets and their owners enjoy a happy life together. This breed tends to herd children, which can be scary for them and when they have friends over to play. WebMiniature American Shepherd Pros and Cons . An Aussies coat is medium to long with colors ranging from blue merle, red merle, red or black. Hip dysplasia is a genetic malformation in the hip socket. Plenty of days of fun are ahead when you adopt a Mini Aussie. 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. That means that they have been bred for certain personality traits that are useful in a herding dog. Get the latest news, information and updates from us, delivered directly into your email inbox. A little exercise can help keep their energy levels up and help them to stay healthy overall. 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. Even though they appear to be resilient little dogs, Mini Aussies are susceptible to several inherited health conditions. Please see our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy pages for more information. It is not advisable to breed two merle dogs together. Minis are loyal companions who are often referred to as "Velcro dogs" because they can become very attached to their owners. Mini Australian Shepherds need a wide outdoor space to run with reckless abandon. If you do not provide them with enough exercise, they will be mischievous at home and invent ways to entertain themselves. Australian Shepherd Mini, Find Mini Australian Shepherd in Dogs & Puppies for Rehoming | Find dogs and puppies locally for sale or adoption. Early socialization needs to avoid shyness developing. It is one of the few small dogs that can play safely with larger breeds, but does not play very well with smaller dogs. 5. Oh, these adorable Aussies are the best furry friends you can have, but have you wondered what the pros and cons of having them are? It is also shaped by how your dog is raised and trained. The Mini Australian Shepherd is the dog breed of choice for most active Americans, and they certainly make great workout buddies. He will also need a secure, fenced in area to run around and play during the day. If you've decided you'd like to find a mini of your own, there are a few places you can begin your search. Pros. Miniature Australian Shepherd Club of America Miniature American Shepherd Overview Pros Portable size that's good for traveling Very affectionate Takes Dog sports are a great way to fulfill both of these needs. If your Aussie isnt socialized, then he can become aggressive in a new situation. Mini Australian Shepherds were bred over 30 years prior, with the purpose of being small enough to travel easily with rodeo cowboys. However, in a family setting, Australian Shepherds can also be excellent watch dogs. Its also important to start training them at a young age. There are both pros and cons of owning an Australian Shepherd. 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. Because this dog is a herding breed, you may find your dog tends to try to nip people or herd them. Mini Aussies are very friendly and make great pets for families with children. Dolly is an Emotional Support Animal and she lives up to her work. The AKC Marketplace is also a popular directory that features available litters across the country. She can sing and dance. An Aussie is a medium-sized dog with the male being 20-23 inches in height and the female being 18-21 inches tall. If your dog doesnt get enough exercise, then he will become bored, hyperactive, and frustrated. In addition, the Mini Australian Shepherd is extremely intelligent, which can make training a challenging task. 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. But Some good options for their diet include dog food that is specifically designed for mini Australian shepherds, a diet high in protein, or a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids. WebThe Mini Australian, American Shepherd Guide and Facts. Rinse their coat thoroughly and dry it off. More family friendly than other working breeds. This dog will enjoy snuggling with the people he trusts. Alex shared his experience with taking care of Atlass coat (@miniatlasadventures). Loyal. Read more about what we do. Consider what you're looking for in your Aussie and decide whether to purchase or adopt. In 2011, the breed was renamed to Miniature American Shepherd and accepted into the American Kennel Clubs Stock Foundation Service. Gentle with friendly. Through the Petfinder platform, you can also search for adoptable dogs based on breed. As herding dogs, it should come as no surprise that Australian Shepherds are extremely smart dogs. 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. As a working breed, yes they do. WebDog Breed Reviews: Honest Reviews of 180 Dog Breeds. Mini Australian Shepherds are susceptible to many of the health problems that a full size Shepherd can inherit. Sa: 8:00-14:00 The miniature Australian shepherd is exactly what its name implies: a miniature Aussie. He has spent decades training working dogs and spends most of his spare time studying, reading and learning about their behavior and welfare. Training a Mini Australian Shepherd is easy but requires more patience than most other breeds due to its high intelligence. Copyright 2023 - raylexshepherds.com. A Mini Aussie is a lot of work, but he is wonderful company. WebOne of the biggest cons of owning a Mini Australian Shepherd is their high energy levels and exercise needs. Australian Shepherd Dogs: Personality & Characteristics. Alex shared that Australian Shepherds love being part of a family but will usually pick one person to be their favourite. Your puppy will let you know if he is feeling ignored by jumping and barking at you for attention. They are vigorous, bigger than life, energetic dogs, and need the same type of owner. At Ablison.com, we believe in providing our readers with useful information and education on a multitude of topics. Pyrenean Shepherds were bred by the Basque people of France and Spain. 8. Australian Shepherds are loyal dogs that can often settle on one member of the family being their person. As his name suggests, the Mini Australian Shepherd is adorably small. Dogs with heterochromia will have two different eye colors. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Pros: Cons: Black Australian Shepherd coats stay looking cleaner for longer as dirt can be hidden in it as they are mainly black. A silly quirk of the breed is their ability to smile! You can avoid your dog from having these issues and get reports from the breeder about the parents recent eye exams. Prior to 2011, kennel clubs recognized both dogs as the same breed. However, mini Australian shepherds do have a few disadvantages. Australian Shepherds are excellent watchdogs because of their innate protective streak. Australian Shepherds can perform many functions within a family and within society as a whole. Friendly. But this puppys big energy can make things difficult. Caring for him is similar to caring for a full-sized version of the breed. Aussies are lithe and agile with a solid muscular build without cloddiness. 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. What Are the Pros and Cons of an Australian Shepherd? The largest meal should be given in the morning. When not exercised or given enough stimulation, these dogs can get into all kinds of trouble. But do not just take our word for it. Providing enough socialization. In addition to physical needs, Mini Aussies require adequate mental stimulation. Sojos Raw Dog Food And Dog Treats Review (2023), Three Exceptional Ways To Remember A German Shepherd Who Has Passed. Obedience training at a young age is essential for this breed, as they have a lot of energy. Most breeders should have genetic testing done on both parents to prevent passing down harmful diseases. You may need to do a thorough grooming every week to remove any matted clumps or excess hair. As a result, most of the Merle-colored Mini Australian Shepherds suffer severe vision and hearing conditions. Its beautiful fur can have anywhere from two to four colors at a time. Second, keep their coat clean and well-groomed. These small dogs have a wavy double coat with a thick outer layer and a downy undercoat, and its gorgeous. He bonds to his family closely and may develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. The mighty Paw Dog Grooming brush will be perfect for keeping your Aussies glorious fur well groomed and free of tangles. The Aussie adapts well to an active household with children as long as the dog has training and proper exercise. Although these dogs love children, they may begin nipping at ankles due to their herding mentality, which will require further training. Herding behavior may show as pushiness or bullying and he may try to herd small children. They have a rounded, medium-length muzzle and triangular ears that sit close to the head. They are a breed that requires a lot of physical activity to stay healthy and They are substantially smaller than regular Australian Shepherds. Use a comb to brush their hair in the direction you want it to grow. Australian Shepherds can sometimes get by with less physical exercise Australian Shepherd Minis: Hypoallergenic Or Not? But they dont adapt to apartment living very well because they need space to run and play throughout the day. Eyes can range in color from brown to gold or green. But with crate training and slow introductions to being alone, he is now completely fine if I were to leave him home by himself for a couple hours. These fur balls are incredibly affectionate and friendly. Keep in mind that temperament isnt just the inheritance factor from the parents. He can fit into smaller family homes that his full sized sibling may not be able to. They are very high energy and need almost These dogs can become destructive and start barking if not given enough stimulation. Because of this they can be a high maintenance breed so not every owner may be able to take one on. Australian Shepherds are believed to have descended from Border Collies. These dogs have an irresistible impulse to herd anything that moves. Los Angeles, CA, United States, Mo-Fr: 8:00-19:00 Here are some tips for grooming a mini Australian shepherd: 1. 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. 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. The Australian Shepherd was first bred from Pyrenean Shepherds. However, males grow a tad bigger than females. They admired him for his ability to effortlessly herd sheep, goats and even cattle. Mini australian shepherd pros and cons (Image Source: Pixabay.com) What to know before buying an Australian shepherd? Our mission is very simple. This means that they are not ideal for apartment living or for families that are not active. Still, this breed will always find a way to make you proud, he absolutely thrives off his owners approval. You need to learn which human foods are safe to feed him and which are not. Australian Shepherds were bred to be working dogs not simply pets to hang around the house or backyard. Epilepsy is diagnosed if the dog suffers two or more seizures within a 24 hour period. Aussies are territorial, and you need to teach your dog where the boundaries are. Originally known as herd dogs to protect animals, Aussies adapt to training pretty easily. The breed isnt aggressive even with being a high-energy dog and is ideal for an active household. Merle colored dogs look as though someone has sprinkled white powder all over them. Prior to 2011, the breed was simply called Mini 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. These little guys are known to go through a lot of fur each year, and it can be difficult to keep up. Mini Australian shepherds are lively and active dogs, so they need plenty of exercise. They are high-energy Also a higher energy level and craving for exercise. Keep children and other family members away until training is finished. I brush him every couple of days and only bathe him every couple of months. Miniature versions of large working breeds are also a better fit for apartments and urban homes than their full sized siblings. But the Australian Shepherd can range from police to being aloof with strangers. For instance, Alex (@miniatlasadventures) will provide us with their experience owning an Aussie. However, I definitely have days where I decide to not do anything and Atlas is completely fine. Keep in mind, a bored mini can easily become a destructive mini. Patellar luxation is one of the most common joint disorders for many small and teacup-sized dogs. This is where the Mini Aussie got his start. Both wet and dry food should be made from raw, wholesome meat ingredients, with little to no additives or sweeteners. Playful . Because of this protective nature, these dogs tend to be aloof with strangers. Aussies are incredibly energetic and require exercise daily. Intelligent. This breed adapts well to families with children and other dogs. If your dog is exercised daily with outdoor stimulation, then he will be an excellent pet. This eager pooch is fantastic at befriending children and makes a great watchman for your home. It's not uncommon to find minis with heterochromia, or eyes of different colors (typically one blue and one brown). The Mini Australian Shepherd is a breed that has a lot of pros and cons. Australian Shepherds are known for their herding instinct. 3. Miniature American Shepherd is the registered breed name for the Miniature Australian Shepherd. Pro - Personable. Finally, every dog and Aussie needs a quality dog harness, so the Rabbit Go tactical dog harness can b I hope you have found this article insightful. Now, they are recognized as two separate breeds with their own individual breed clubs. 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Some Aussies are prone to becoming overweight, so you need to watch how much you feed him and the calorie count. The breed averages from 18 to 23 inches in height and 40 to 65 pounds in weight. He fits into smaller homes much more easily than a full sized herder. Australian Shepherds can perform many functions within a family and within society as a whole. Australian Shepherds have wonderful personalities and adapt well to families with For the following few decades, these dogs were known as Miniature Australian Shepherds. Mental stimulation is absolutely vital for any working breed. They are energetic but dont have the size to herd cattle. This is part of their natural grooming process, and its something that you should expect. While they do have a lot of fur, in my experience, Atlas does not require a lot of grooming. By fans and breeders this dog is known as a Mini Australian Shepherd. If you have ever owned one, you have probably felt their endless affection. is the new trusted website created to help pets and their owners enjoy a happy life together. We understand that product offers and rates from third-party sites may change, and while we make every effort to keep our content updated, the figures mentioned on our site may differ from actual numbers. However, these dogs can be headstrong, so begin training at an early age. 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. Some Mini Aussies are born with a natural bobtail, whereas others are born with a long, feathery tail. How To Select A Rescue Dog By Saro Dog Training, Simple Dog Treats With Only 4 Ingredients, Golddoge Sachs Token Crypto Coin Altcoin How To Buy Gds Nfts Bsc Goldman Portfolio Doge Gold, Responsibility disclaimer and privacy policy, Puppies For Dummies by Sarah Hodgson Wiley, 2019, The Encyclopedia of Historic and Endangered Livestock and Poultry Breeds by Janet Vorwald Dohner Yale University Press, 2001, The Intelligence of Dogs: A Guide to the Thoughts, Emotions, and Inner Lives of by Stanley Coren Atria Books, 2006, Behavior Problems of the Dog and Cat by Gary Landsberg, Wayne Hunthausen, Lowell Ackerman Elsevier Health Sciences, 2011, Merriam-Websters Collegiate Encyclopedia by Merriam-Webster, Inc Merriam-Webster, 2000. It is unfair to keep large active breeds in small apartments. 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 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. His coat is managed through seasonal shedding known as blowouts. Start by brushing their hair away from their face and ears. Actually, they are the same dog! A double merle coat can be beautiful to look at, but unfortunately the gene is associated with deafness and blindness. Australian Shepherds were bred to be working dogs not simply pets to hang around the house or backyard. Atlas the Australian Shepherd (Photo: miniatlasadventures / Instagram). Outside of Marvelous Dogs, he enjoys trail running and agility work with his working Labrador Retriever. The mini and toy versions of Australian Shepherds were derived in America. These dogs do have a protective streak, but if socialized early, they will accept the company coming into the house. You can expect to see the largest amount of weight gain during this period. The Mini Australian Shepherd is not up to par with the regular Australian Shepherd when it comes to fieldwork. Black, tan, brown and white are all of the most common colors. This allows him to work well in different and cold climates. Mini Australian Shepherds may look very cute and endearing, but they are not the most affectionate pooch around. If youre a sedentary person, this breeds intense work drive will be too much dog for you. Weight: 50 to 65 lbs. Its also known as the Mini American Shepherd dog breed. This master of agility just loves to show off. Their working coats naturally repel a lot of dirt which means I dont have to brush him that often. One of the most unusual and unique dog breeds in existence, these pups are intelligent, loyal, outgoing, fun, and loving. His limitless energy and high intelligence make him quite a handful for inexperienced and first time owners. There are several sizes of Australian Shepherds. If you have a question about your pet's health, please contact your veterinarian. 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. If you have concerns about your pups weight, consult with the vet. first and foremost, atopedia Australian shepherds are one of the most playful dog breeds out there. Lifespan: 12 to 15 years Surprisingly his history began in the United States and Europe and not Australia. It depends on their parentage and lines. Let a Mini Australian Shepherd in, and your household will never be the same again. A Miniature Australian Shepherd compared to the regular Australian Shepherds is virtually indistinguishable except for the size they come in. He will not respond like a typical dog until he has learned all the nuances of your particular training system because he wants it done right! His small size results from generations of selectively pairing off and breeding the smallest Aussie Shepherds. He should also be the only dog in the house. Boredom can lead to excessive barking and very destructive behavior. The Australian Shepherd is smart, agile, and full of energy. The coat of a Mini Australian Shepherd is another factor that should be considered. Australian Shepherds are slightly more popular than Minis as the 17th most popular dog breed in the US. Wash your Miniature American Shepherd once per month with pet shampoo or more frequently if they get dirty. It is impossible to have a bad day when you watch this hyperactive puppy run circles around the yard! Its a good idea to start training your Australian Shepherd from a young age to establish basic obedience and understanding. If you're up for the challenge, you might find that they're the ideal fit for your household. Once deafness is diagnosed via a hearing exam, your vet can help you and your dog to manage the condition. They have an under and outer coat which means they do shed quite a bit. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which makes them ideal for first-time dog owners. Read them before you decide if this breed is the dog for you. The Mini Australian Shepherd does not like to be stuck inside all day long! You have to take the time and effort into training to get a well-behaved dog. German Shepherd Everything You Need to Know. This isn't a breed who will simply snooze on the couch; you'll need to dedicate several hours each day to your companion. These puppies, too, tend to have severe visual and auditory problems most of the time. She plays basketball and puts her toys away by name. Some Australian Shepherd owners may struggle with their dog being reactive in certain situations. He has much more energy than other small dog breeds. They will more than grateful for it. See our Affiliate Disclosure page for more information. Mini Australian Shepherds work as well in the home as they do on the farm. A Mini Aussie is both a worker and a good friend. 4. Destructive behavior is inevitable if your dog is under stimulated. Your children will love a dog that is just as playful as they are. This breed is also prone to hip dysplasia and epilepsy. Its not enough to just physical exercise an Aussie, but you have to mentally challenge them as well. This is a loving and affectionate breed that is lively and playful but also very obedient. Theyre moderate shedders who will blow out their undercoat during shedding season. The AKC rate the Australian Shepherds affectionateness with the family as a three out of five on their website. The Australian Shepherd is the ideal companion, All the coat colors could have either tan points or white markings. Herding dogs are very attentive to their owners and are problem solvers which means they like plenty of activity and complex tasks. These mastiffs stand tall above the rest as some of the most interesting, unusual, and downright lovable big dogs you can find. Theyre relatively affectionate dogs who have a reputation for being good with young children. The Miniature American Shepherd is often incorrectly called the Miniature Australian Shepherd, though at one time this was an appropriate name for the breed. 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. 3. WebAustralian Shepherds bred for herding/performance are usually smaller, with a more lithe, agile build, and a shorter coat. Also, Avoid getting a Mini Aussie if theyre white. Australian Shepherds have a mind of their own. Its important to not allow them to have constant 24/7 access to you so they dont get use to being around you every waking moment. Australian Shepherds were bred to be herding dogs. May never get along with strangers. Dogs of either sex tend to weigh between 20 to 40 pounds on average and typically stand between 13 and 18 inches tall at the shoulder.