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The Miniature American Shepherd

Small in Size, Big in Heart

The Miniature American Shepherd (MAS)—often affectionately called the Mini Aussie—is a breed that offers the intelligence, loyalty, and striking beauty of the Australian Shepherd in a more compact, portable size.

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Whether you’re looking for a devoted family companion, a high-performance athlete for dog sports, or a loyal partner for life on the farm, the MAS is a versatile breed that fits seamlessly into your heart and home.

Breed Origins: From "Mini Aussie" to MAS

While they are often called Mini Aussies, the breed was officially recognized by the AKC in 2015 as the Miniature American Shepherd.

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  • The History: Developed in California in the late 1960s, the breed was created by breeding smaller-statured Australian Shepherds.

  • The Goal: To maintain the breed's legendary herding instinct and high intelligence while creating a dog that could more easily travel to horse shows and live comfortably in a family home.

Key Characteristics

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Size

Small to Medium.

Males: 14–18 inches.

Females: 13–17 inches.

Weight

Generally between 20–40 lbs (9–18 kg).

Coat

A medium-length, weather-resistant double coat that comes in Black, Blue Merle, Red, or Red Merle.

Eyes

One of their most famous traits! Eyes can be brown, blue, hazel, amber, or even "marbled" (flecked with color).

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Temperament & Lifestyle

The MAS is a "velcro dog"—they love to be wherever their people are.​​

Intelligence

They are exceptionally bright and eager to please, making them one of the easiest breeds to train. They excel in Agility, Obedience, and Herding trials.

Energy Level

They are active and athletic. While they love a good hike or a game of fetch, they also have a "switch" that allows them to settle down and cuddle on the sofa once their daily exercise is done.

Family Life

They are devoted and protective of their families. They are generally good with children and other pets, though their herding instinct might lead them to occasionally "nudge" or herd moving objects!

Is a Miniature American Shepherd Right for You?

The ideal MAS owner is someone who enjoys an active lifestyle and is looking for a dog that is as smart as they are beautiful. They thrive on mental stimulation—they don't just want a walk; they want a job to do!

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Breeder’s Note: We prioritize temperament and health in our breeding program to ensure that our puppies grow into well-adjusted, confident adults that are ready for any adventure.

Health & Heritage

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Exceptional Health & Heritage

Quality is the foundation of everything we do. Every breeding decision is made with a deep respect for the Miniature American Shepherd breed standard. We conduct rigorous genetic health testing—including OFA clearances for hips and elbows and DNA panels for breed-specific conditions—to ensure that your puppy is as healthy on the inside as they are beautiful on the outside. We aren't just breeding for today; we are breeding for a lifetime of vitality.

Raised with heart & Purpose

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Raised with Heart & Purpose

A confident puppy begins in the home. Our puppies aren't raised in a kennel; they are born and nurtured in the heart of our living space. Following proven socialization protocols, we introduce our litters to a variety of "real world" sights, sounds, and textures during their critical development windows. This careful handling ensures that when your puppy arrives home, they are curious, brave, and ready to bond with your family.

Breeder Support

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A Partner in Your Puppy’s Journey

Our commitment doesn't end at the front gate. When you bring home one of our puppies, you gain a lifelong resource. Whether you need advice on crate training in the first week or have questions about nutrition years down the line, we provide ongoing breeder support for the life of your dog. We take pride in the success of our puppies and love staying connected with our extended puppy family.

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