The Miniature Australian Shepherd has a trademark naturally or docked bobtail. It is a well-balanced, medium-sized agile dog. Ideally, males should be 14 to 18 inches tall at the withers; females, 14 through 17 inches.
Appearance. The average Toy Aussie is around 10-14 inches tall and weighs between 12-17 lbs depending on the gender of the dog.
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.
They're smaller than full-size Australian shepherds — 14 to 18 inches tall and roughly 20 to 40 pounds, versus more than 18 inches and 40 to 60-plus pounds — and have wide variation in the color of their eyes, which can be mismatched or marbled in shades of bright blue, brown, and hazel; and mottled coats, which can be ...
How big will a Miniature Australian Shepherd get? MAS dogs can vary quite a bit in size, weighing between 20 and 40 pounds. They shouldn't get any bigger than 18 inches tall, but they can also be as small as 13 inches. The females tend to be noticeably smaller than the males.
Australian Shepherds will bark at strangers, loud noises, and other animals as a way of getting rid of all that excess energy. More so, they can display the same type of behavior towards squirrels, thunderstorms, or even a passing car.
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!
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.
Forum Description. Mini Aussies are not particularly more difficult to potty train than any other dog their size. They are a bit more difficult to train than a larger Australian Shepherd, simply because of their smaller bladders. They will need to be taken outside more often and typically have more accidents indoors.
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.
Miniature Australian Shepherds are incredibly smart. These dogs will typically catch on to new tricks and commands in no time. However, this also means that you should be mindful of what you teach your dog and if you slip them any table scraps because your Mini Aussie won't soon forget.
Mini Aussies are similar smaller versions of Australian Shepherds. In many cases, they may not be much smaller at all. Their love for water will often be the same as a larger Aussie as well. For the most part, these dogs may love water if they are introduced to it at a young age.
Many have naturally short tails.
In addition to having a genetic predisposition for heterochromia, Aussies have a one-in-five chance of being born with a naturally bobbed tail,.
What is this? In general, small dog breeds finish growing faster than larger breeds. The Australian Shepherd is no different. A miniature Australian Shepherd dog will be fully grown in one year, while a standard size Australian Shepherd may take as long as 16 months to grow up.
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.
Are Mini Aussies always hyper? Mini Aussie dogs are active dogs for life, often well into old age. However, owners will notice a decrease in activity level in their dogs' older years. Their puppyhood will be extremely hyperactive until they are around two years old.
Mini Aussies are very loyal. Due to their heritage with full size Australian Shepherds, they constantly look back to make sure you are still walking behind them. Also similarly, they are extremely intelligent. They definitely need a lot of exercise, just like the full sized dogs.
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.
Dogs that have double or water-repellant coats, like Australian Shepherds, Siberian Huskies, Akitas, Labrador Retrievers, and Newfoundlands, may only need baths every few months. Bathing them more often than necessary can cause dry skin.
Start by letting him start barking, then when stops barking, say "Quiet" in a firm commanding voice and give him plenty of praise and a treat or two. Repeat until he associates the cue "Quiet" with stopping the noise and getting a treat.
An adult Mini Aussie needs at least one hour of exercise every day, but preferably closer to two. Their daily exercise should ideally be split into two walks per day. Things You Should Know A healthy Miniature Australian Shepherd can live as long as 13 years.
The only time you should shave or trim a Miniature Australian Shepherd is at your vet's recommendation, usually due to a health issue.