Breed Characteristics of Mini Aussies
The Australian Shepherd, a lean, tough ranch dog, is one of those ‘only in America’ stories: a European breed perfected in California by way of Australia. Fixtures on the rodeo circuit, they are closely associated with the cowboy life. The Australian Shepherd, the cowboy’s herding dog of choice, is a medium-sized worker with a keen, penetrating gaze in the eye. Aussie coats offer different looks, including merle (a mottled pattern with contrasting shades of blue or red). In all ways, they’re the picture of rugged and agile movers of stock. Aussies exhibit an irresistible impulse to herd, anything: birds, dogs, kids. This strong work drive can make Aussies too much dog for a sedentary pet owner. Aussies are remarkably intelligent, quite capable of hoodwinking an unsuspecting novice owner. In short, this isn’t the pet for everyone. But if you’re looking for a brainy, tireless, and trainable partner for work or sport, your search might end here.
Health
Miniature Australian Shepherd are generally healthy dogs, and responsible breeders test their stock for health conditions, communicating with other dedicated breeders to work together for breed health and preservation of the breed’s unique qualities. Regular visits to the vet for checkups and parasite control help to ensure the dog a long, healthy life.
Recommended Health Tests From the National Breed Club:
- Hip Evaluation
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
- NAD – Neuroaxonal Dystrophy (Miniature Australian Shepherd Type) DNA Test
- Multidrug Sensitivity (MDR1) – DNA Test
- HSF4 – Hereditary Cataracts (Australian Shepherd Type) – DNA Test
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy, PRCD (PRA-prcd, PRCD) – DNA Test
Grooming
The Miniature Australian Shepherd has a double coat, with a longer outer coat and a wooly undercoat. The breed sheds a fair amount, even more so during shedding season, which can occur once or twice a year. Weekly brushing’daily during shedding season’will help to remove dirt and loose hairs and keep the dog looking his best. Mats or tangles can be worked out with a slicker brush or metal comb. As with all breeds, the nails should be trimmed regularly, as overly long nails can cause the dog discomfort.
Exercise
Miniature Australian Shepherd are active and athletic, and they need a moderate amount of exercise but are also very adaptable to their family’s way of life. They do well as city dogs as long as owners provide sufficient exercise. They enjoy outings with their people that will occupy both their mind and body. They enjoy and excel in many canine events, including obedience, agility, and tracking.
Training
As with all breeds, early socialization and puppy training classes are recommended and help to ensure that the dog grows into a well-adjusted, well-mannered companion. Intelligent and willing to please, the Miniature Australian Shepherd is highly trainable and will reach his best potential as a companion when taught at least basic obedience.