At 2-3 years of age, Mini Aussies are considered mentally developed and will be better at regulating their energy levels. In other words, they will start to calm down! That said, Aussies are naturally active dogs and will remain so into old age.
They are well known for their abundant energy, so prospective owners may be wondering: Are Mini Aussies really that hyperactive? Yes – but don't let that scare you away! A hyperactive dog is not necessarily a bad thing, as long as you can meet their needs.
Your Mini Australian Shepherd might seem like the most anxious dog in the world, but if they become distracted by a lot of affection, a favorite toy, or some tasty rawhide, they aren't dealing with severe anxiety. Many owners provide their somewhat nervous dogs with calming treats to help anxious dogs relax.
Most Australian Shepherds should begin calming down at two years of age. At this point, they're considered mature dogs who can better regulate their energy.
They are not overly stubborn or spiteful, but can become that way if you don't give them enough attention or if they get bored. There is no such thing as too much activity or training with an Aussie; they can handle more than you are able to throw at them.
The Aussie's desire to cuddle
Dogs in general are known for being happy, cuddly, sweet, and soothing for a human to pet. Some breeds are, by nature, more affectionate than others. While the Aussie will typically reserve cuddling for one person or a group of trusted people, sometimes he won't want to cuddle at all.
Yes! Like most dogs, Aussies (and Mini Aussies) are active and outdoorsy, but still best suited to indoor living. Medium-large-sized homes with gardens are best, but they can do well in smaller homes, too. Just so long as they get everything they need to be happy and healthy!
A female does not have the density or thickness as well as the length of the coat as the male. It is suggested that females are also more sensitive and laid back. Because of this, they are said to have an easier personality to deal with.
All shepherd breeds are naturally very active because of the herding work that they were originally bred for. That is why, today, Aussies are regular competitors in dog sports. A lot of hyperactivity in Mini Aussies stems from not meeting their needs for physical and mental exercise.
Common Health Problems
But they are still prone to some hereditary health issues1, including: Progressive retinal atrophy and other eye issues. Drug sensitivity due to a mutation of the MDR1 gene. Hip dysplasia.
Just as humans stare into the eyes of someone they adore, dogs will stare at their owners to express affection. In fact, mutual staring between humans and dogs releases oxytocin, known as the love hormone.
The energetic Miniature Australian Shepherd temperament means that this breed is not well-suited to living in an apartment. Even though they are smaller than their larger Aussie counterparts, do not be fooled by their small size. They still need a lot of room to run.
An Aussie doesn't want to be everyone's best friend.
They have to be socialized as puppies so they'll tolerate meeting new people, but they won't approach just anyone for kisses. Though some are friendlier than others, they're generally very attached to just one or two family members.
Miniature Australian Shepherds are easygoing, perpetual puppies that love to play. Courageous, loyal and affectionate, they are excellent children's companions that are great with active children. A devoted friend and guardian.
With that said, on average, most Mini Aussies are intelligent dogs that are relatively easy to train. One way to help the training process go more smoothly is to begin training the day you bring your dog home.
Keep in mind the average Australian Shepherd tends to bark a lot, making it a little more challenging to get him to stop barking unless you give him the 'speak' command or there is a situation in which he needs to bark to alert you.
Interestingly, while small dogs typically have longer life expectancies, mini Australian shepherds, which the AKC recognizes as the miniature American shepherd, have a life expectancy of just 12-13 years.
If your Aussie hasn't calmed down by two years old, you need to work to meet their needs with lots of activity, excitement, work, and fun. Keeping your Aussie engaged with a variety of positive activities will help calm them down and keep them away from negative activities.
Male dogs are usually more affectionate than females, and some positively crave human attention.
Female dogs tend to be easier to housebreak, easier to train, and more connected with their owners—but in certain circumstances they can be more demanding of attention. Aggression can be a problem in any dog of any breed, however it is usually more apparent in non-neutered males.
And while Australian Shepherds are some of the most trainable dogs, they are also one of the most stubborn and moody breeds. Part of this depends on their individual personalities, but part of it is also attributed their breed.
Caring for Your Miniature Australian Shepherd
They need at least 30-60 minutes of exercise daily, and a job to do to be entertained at all times. They love going for walks or even hikes but should be kept on a leash as they have high chasing instincts. These dogs shed a lot, so they need to be groomed regularly.
Provide lots of exercise and mental stimulation.
To be at their best and minimize behavioral problems and anxiety, Mini Aussies need to spend lots of time with their family, 30-60 minutes of exercise every day, and daily mental stimulation with food puzzles, training, and problem solving.
The Australian Shepherd is not bred to dig and will only resort to digging if he is not stimulated enough to satisfy his need to be busy and involved with his owner.