Profile of the Miniature Australian Shepherd and Toy Australian Shepherd Breed

Answers to commonly asked questions…

Group or type:
Stock Dog/Herding/Working

Primary Function:
Herding Livestock/Family Companion

Sizes:
Miniatures 14? to 18?
Toys 10? to 14?
Micros under 10?

Lifespan:
12 to 16 year

Coat Type:
Double-coat, under coat with coarser guard hairs

Grooming:
Moderate shedding, mostly seasonal;  requires occasional brushing

Personality:
Affectionate, loyal, enthusiastic, intuitive, exuberant, protective, territorial (may consider strangers and drop in company as an intruder)

Intelligence:
Extremely clever and eager to please

Activity Levels:
Most require daily exercise and play time, some less than others. Daily exercise can be a game of ball or Frisbee up to a real job of herding.

Family:
Good with children and other pets, but some can show aggression to other dogs they don’t know.

Best Owners:
Active, with time to invest in training, exercise and play, Aussies are not suited to being stuck in a yard and ignored. They are people dogs and need your attention.

Best Homes:
Large yard or rural setting with a fenced yard with plenty of room to play (due to the herding instinct they can be car chasers).