AKA: North American Miniature Australian Shepherd, Mini Australian Shepherd, North American Shepherd, Toy Australian Shepherd, Mini Aussie, Tea Cup Australian Shepherd

Description: The North American Miniature Australian Shepherd has a slightly wavy coat that is moderate in length. It has feathering on the back of its legs and a mane and frill around its neck. Its skull is flat and clean cut, and its upper jaw does not hang over the lower jaw.

Dynamics: The Miniature Australian Shepherd is an affectionate and playful dog. It is great with children and is courageous and very active. It is also attentive and is easy to train. This dog has to be given attention otherwise it becomes nervous and destructive. The Miniature Australian Shepherd is a dog that always needs to be doing something. Socialization is needed so that it will not grow up suspicious of strangers. The Miniature Australian Shepherd is not usually dog aggressive and can get along with other dogs.

Breed Group: Herding

Weight: 20-40 pounds (9-18 kg)

Height: 13 to 18 inches (35 to 46 cm)

Color: The coat of the Miniature Australian Shepherd comes in either blue or red merle, red or black tricolor, or all with white or tn markings. The hair around the ears and eyes should not be white.

Country of Origin: The Miniature Australian Shepherd was bred in the United States in 1968 using small Australian Shepherds.

Activities: The Miniature Australian Shepherd is an active breed and therefore needs to be regularly walked and exercised. This is a working dog and has to be always on the go.

Grooming: An occasional brush with a firm bristle brush is enough to groom the Miniature Australian Shepherd. Bathe only when necessary.

Other Info: The Miniature Australian Shepherd has a life expectancy of 12-13 years. This breed is prone to blindness and deafness as the gene for the merle combination carried this factor. This breed will be all right living in an apartment as long as it is sufficiently exercised.

Photo: Elf