Breed History
While there seem to be many theories as to the origin of the Australian Shepherd, the breed as we know it today was developed exclusively in the United States. The Australian Shepherd was given its name because of their association with the Basque sheepherders who came to the United States from Australia in the 1800's. The Aussie rose rapidly in popularity with the boom of western riding after World War II, becoming known to the general public via rodeos, horse shows, movies and television. Their inherent versatility and trainability made them useful on American farms and ranches. The American stockmen continued the development of the breed, maintaining the versatility, keen intelligence, strong herding instinct and eye-catching appearance.
The Miniature Australian Shepherd was started as a breed in 1968 from a group of small select Australian Shepherds. The size and conformation was achieved over 10 years of breeding, crossing the smallest standard size Australian Shepherds. The ideal Miniature Aussie is the mirror image of the "Standard Australian Shepherd," only in a small package.
Size ranges from 14" to 18" tall, measured at the top of the withers. It is in the "Herding Group" and is seen in the Breed and Obedience Ring, as well as in the home as a supremely devoted companion and pet.
A Miniature Australian Shepherd has all the attributes of the larger Aussie but the advantages of a smaller dog, weighing between 15 to 35 pounds at maturity. They come in coat colors of blue merle, red merle, black or red tri or bi. All come with or without copper/tan and white trim. Their eyes maybe blue, brown, hazel (amber) or one blue, one brown, and flecked or marbled. Their tails are sometimes naturally bobbed or they have long tails.
The Miniature Aussie's temperament is that of the larger Aussie - sensitive, easily trained, excellent natural guardians of the home and possessing strong herding instincts. They are calm and confident, but suspicious of strangers. They are entirely devoted to their master and will go to great lengths to please. Their unique size makes them great traveling companions and housemates.
Today, the Mini Aussie serves humanity in every imaginable way: as a working stock dog, guide dogs for the blind, hearing dogs for the deaf, therapy dogs, search and rescue, drug detection, bomb detection, alert dogs, not to mention they are one of the greatest all time family and children dogs. Their devotion and loyalty to their families is unsurpassed. They are truly magnificent dogs. Once you have owned an Aussie, you’ll never own another breed.
Characteristics
A small Australian Shepherd with the Aussie's attentive, energetic temperament, high intelligence and reserve, but never shyness, towards strangers.
The Miniature Australian Shepherd's eager attitude means that working with the mini Aussie is a joy, but their intelligence means that obedience training is highly recommended. The ownership of any dog, especially one of an intelligent breed, should not be taken lightly. Because the Aussie was developed both to herd and guard the flock, the mini Aussies are entirely devoted to their family and make excellent watch dogs and companions. As with all breeds, early socialization is crucial.
He is well balanced, slightly longer than tall, of medium size and bone, with coloring that offers variety and individuality. He is attentive and animated, lithe and agile, solid and muscular. He has a coat of moderate length and coarseness. He has a docked or natural bobbed tail.
Size
STANDARD: Preferred height (male and female) is 18 inches up to 23 inches at the top of the withers.
MINIATURE: Preferred height ( male and female) is 14 inches up to 18 inches at the top of withers.
TOY: Preferred height (male and female) is 10 inches up to 14 inches at the top of the withers.
Hair
Hair is of medium texture, straight to wavy, weather resistant and of medium length. The undercoat varies in quantity with variations in climate. Hair is short and smooth on the head, ears, front of forelegs and below the hocks. Backs of forelegs and britches are moderately feathered. There is a moderate mane and frill, more pronounced in dogs than in bitches. Non-typical coats are severe faults.
