Livestock and herding dogs embody pride, bravery, and loyalty. The desire to keep their flock together, be it children, the cats, or sheep, can be frustrating to an owner. Their drive to work is bred into them and they need to have a job, be it agility, fetch and or retrieve, hiking or herding.

 
I find it interesting that the Standard Breeders feel so threatened by this. I grew up on a sheep ranch in Northern Idaho. As a small child, I hung out at the sheep camps most of the summers. The Aussies there were not nearly as large as what the Standard is today. Some of them had prick ears and more refined faces. These dogs came from the Spanish families that worked the sheep. Once the breed was discovered by the cattle industry, there was a huge push to increase the size of the breed. I believe they bred them to larger breeds to decrease the time it took to make them larger, which caused the current, fashion only, ear set. The ear set does not make them better or worse stock dogs.

My research has lead me to believe that the first people to try to preserve the smaller version started with some of the old stock that was untouched from the original breed that the sheep herders in North America developed.

My 12 mini’s and toys can all nap with me on the bed, at least 2 of them will sleep with my husband and I nightly. I show my babies, I can get all 12 in my Trail Blazer with no problem. They cost less to feed, they still work, play ball and Frisbee.

Look for a legitimate and reputable breeder, add to that, a knowledgeable breeder of these great little dogs. The problem is that the standard breeders don’t want these little guys competing with them. The truth of the matter is they don’t. Each size brings different abilities and serves different proposes much like the Poodle breed does.

Don’t overlook the smaller version of a great breed. Just understand, all Aussies are very active and intelligent. Left alone all day with nothing to do day after day makes them do things to entertain themselves you may not appreciate. They are people dogs and require human interaction, lots of exercise and mental stimulation on a regular basis. If you can provide that you will never find a more loyal and loving dog that will help you raise your kids, keep the critters in line or just herd you when ever possible. They are a joy to have around no matter what size you choose to live with you.