mini australian shepherd pros and cons

Australian Shepherds are a herding breed. One of my favourite activities as a dog owner is exploring new trails with Atlas and he has definitely made me more active, which I appreciate. 5. The genes which are responsible for this color are also the genes that provide hearing and eyesight. Review their extensive grooming requirements and exercise needs before settling on this dog. Atlas is only 1 year and 4 months old but he knows over 30 tricks! So its crucial to be extra careful when purchasing a Mini Aussie. Their top coat is long and fluffy, and the underlayer is very dense and wooly. If you have ever owned one, you have probably felt their endless affection. Los Angeles, CA, United States, Mo-Fr: 8:00-19:00 As his name suggests, the Mini Australian Shepherd is adorably small. However, your kids must be old enough to handle its energy and exuberance. He can be quite overbearing if he is not given enough stimulation and exercise throughout the day. Miniature versions of large working breeds are also a better fit for apartments and urban homes than their full sized siblings. But the Australian Shepherd can range from police to being aloof with strangers. The largest meal should be given in the morning. They are substantially smaller than regular Australian Shepherds. Australian Shepherd Size and Weight Guide. There are both pros and cons of owning an Australian Shepherd. They share the same qualities as their larger counterparts but in a more manageable size. However, these pint-sized pets can be even more energetic than their larger relatives. If you have a question about your pet's health, please contact your veterinarian. It is impossible to have a bad day when you watch this hyperactive puppy run circles around the yard! In 1968 a lady named Doris Cordova decided to shrink the Australian Shepherd to a more compact size, but without compromising the qualities it already had. So, if you cant keep up with their shedding schedule, you may want to reconsider adopting one. They also tend to be vocal, so they may not be the best choice for people who live in quiet neighborhoods. Marvelous Dogs is the worlds best resource for dog owners who want to raise healthy and happy dogs. He would howl and bark whenever he thought he was alone, which was quite rough for me. Despite their high energy levels and exercise needs, Mini Australian Shepherds can be perfect for active families. However, the breed also possesses some unique characteristics. Its because an Aussie loves human companionship and thrives when providing a needed service for his owner. Fifth, keep your mini Australian shepherds away from other animals that may cause them to shed. Breeding the runts of standard sized Australian Shepherds litters for several generations has ensured that this dog will stay adorably puppy sized for its entire life. These puppies were then imported into the United States and called Australian Shepherds. Doodles Daily Goldendoodles and Australian Labradoodles, The Best Diabetic Dog Treats for Diabetic Dogs, Probiotics for Dogs Improving Gut Health: Pros and Cons, The Best Pet Owners Guide to the Frenchton, Aussiedoodle: Breed Information and Personality Traits, How to Train Your Goldendoodle on Everything, Few Useful Remedies For Your Labradoodle Ears, Autumn Accessories For Dogs That Will Keep Them Warm, 5 Reasons Why Your Dog Doesnt Respond to Its Name and What to Do, Standard Australian Shepherd (Taller than 18 in, 46 cm), Mini Australian Shepherd (14 to 18 in, 36 to 46 cm), The Mini Australian Shepherd was recognized by AKC in 2015 surprisingly in the name of Miniature American Shepherd.. Always keep your Aussie on his leash when you walk. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Mini Australian Shepherds eyes can be brown, blue, or amber. As Australian Shepherds naturally get very attached to their owner(s), they are a breed thats prone to separation anxiety. Consider what you're looking for in your Aussie and decide whether to purchase or adopt. These dogs have an irresistible impulse to herd anything that moves. Even Though the names suggest Miniature Australian Shepherd, the breed is actually from the United States. You need to provide your dog with opportunities to exercise, release energy, and do fun and exciting things. Herder. Having said that, you should always supervise an Aussie around kids because some members of the breed may succumb to an instinctive drive to herd children. Outside of Marvelous Dogs, he enjoys trail running and agility work with his working Labrador Retriever. This dog will enjoy snuggling with the people he trusts. However, males grow a tad bigger than females. This is part of their natural grooming process, and its something that you should expect. Australian Shepherds can develop genetically predisposed eye disease. These dogs can also become overweight quickly, which is another reason for the need for daily exercise. Australian Shepherds naturally choose someone to be their person and if you are lucky to be chosen then you can definitely count on lots of snuggles and attention from them. Alex had a word of warning to prospective Aussie owners who dont consider themselves to be active people. Female dogs are less expensive than males. Australian Shepherd appeared around the time of the 1840s Gold Rush, as we know it now in the western United States, mainly in Colorado. Also, Avoid getting a Mini Aussie if theyre white. He is friendlier than most other working breeds, as they all tend to be a bit more aloof. A Mini Aussie can keep an active family entertained for hours on end. Because so many people call these dogs Mini Aussies, we'll use that name here. Mini Australian Shepherds can only weigh between 20 to 40 pounds (9 and 18 kg), while the toy version weighs even less at around 12 to 17 lbs (5 to 8 kg). Separation anxiety is a chronic canine condition that can affect any dog irrespective of breed or mix. They are loving and loyal companions that can be easy to train and make excellent family pets. He will also need a secure, fenced in area to run around and play during the day. Other than obviously being significantly smaller, the mini is a bit longer than they are tall. If anything, mental stimulation is more tiring than physical exercise! Other health issues can consist of hip dysplasia, a malformation in some dogs hip socket. Responsibility disclaimer and privacy policy | Site Map. Merle-colored dogs tend to be much more expensive. An Aussie will alert you to incoming strangers or possible danger whenever it happens. Once deafness is diagnosed via a hearing exam, your vet can help you and your dog to manage the condition. By the 1960s, this herding breed had become a rodeo star. These dogs are intelligent and can hoodwink a novice owner. For example, a Golden Retriever and Miniature Poodle create a mini. These dogs will demand your attention, time, and want to be with you regularly. Having a stressful day at work is no problem; your Aussie will greet you at the door and put you in a cheerful mood instantly. Nothing satisfies a Mini Aussie better than a job well done. Source: https://spiritdogtraining.com/do-australian-shepherds-like-to-cuddle/. They are known for being affectionate with their owners and are often great with children. If you can provide them with a lot of outdoor playtime, that will be great, but they also need a lot of indoor playtime, as well. As a herding breed, these dogs need to have physical exercise, as well as mental stimulation in order to stay active. Use a comb to brush their hair in the direction you want it to grow. He is not sociable by nature, so you will need to train your dog to get along with other people and dogs. Adopting a mini in need is another option you may consider. Even though the AKC has named this breed the "Mini American Shepherd," because the breed was called the Mini Australian for so long, many people still incorrectly refer to these dogs as "Mini Aussies." Plus, improper wear and tear on the hip joint over time can cause arthritis and will sometimes require surgery for relief. This is common in most mini breeds, popular examples include the Mini Poodle and Miniature Husky. Some are eager to please their owners while others arent so eager. Best Dog Food For Sustainability USA 2023. As an active person myself, I love the fact that I can take Atlas out for hikes and trails, without worrying whether or not he can keep up. She is also very entertaining. May never get along with strangers. Our team of writers strives to provide accurate and genuine reviews and articles, and all views and opinions expressed on our site are solely those of the authors. Australian Shepherds bred for exhibition in the dog show ring are usually larger, stockier, less athletic and agile, with a more "luxurious" coat. They require regular exercise and if they dont get the chance to stretch their legs and work their intelligent brains, you should be prepared for the possibility of destructive and unwanted behaviours. I brush him every couple of days and only bathe him every couple of months. They are also great with children and can make excellent playmates. The Mini Australian Shepherd is all of the above but in a pint-sized body (which makes a big These smaller sized dogs were known by breeders as Mini Australian Shepherds until the 2010s. Miniaturization became a big trend in the 1990s thanks to adorable teacup dogs that are small enough to fit in your palm or purse. Australian Shepherds are a working breed of dog. Sometimes surgery is required. If fun and fitness is your style, this furry athlete certainly has you covered in that department! Other health problems that occur in this breed include: You should feed this dog the same type of food that you would give to a standard sized working breed, but in smaller amounts. An Aussie will have a tendency to bark if he is bored or doesnt have enough exercise. Even though they appear to be resilient little dogs, Mini Aussies are susceptible to several inherited health conditions. To be honest, youd be enraptured with their presence around you and your family, wouldnt you? Heart, bone, and joint problems are all particularly common in miniature and teacup dogs. Mini Australian Shepherds need a wide outdoor space to run with reckless abandon. Although these dogs like to work, they can also make excellent family pets with the right owners and in the right setting. In 2011, the breed was renamed to Miniature American Shepherd and accepted into the American Kennel Clubs Stock Foundation Service. One of the most common complaints owners have about their mini Australian shepherds is that they constantly shed.shedding is a natural process that every dog goes through, but there are a few things you can do to help reduce the amount of hair your dog sheds. What is the difference between the two dogs? However, this particular miniature dog was not a product of the teacup trend. You support us through our chosen links, which sometimes earn us an affiliate commission. Despite their small size, these dogs are bundles of energy, which means they have relatively high exercise requirements. A hard days work is how this little farmhand shows its love. Like most members of the Herding Group, Minis are highly intelligent. 4. Copyright 2023 - raylexshepherds.com. Most small dogs have longer lifespans than larger breeds. Let us know what you want us to talk about next. You need to go over all the pros and cons if youre considering adopting an Australian Shepherd. However, these dogs can be headstrong, so begin training at an early age. Intelligent. The Miniature American Shepherd - also known as the Mini Aussie - does very well with children and other animals if exposed early in life. She is exactly like her larger counterparts, just in a tiny body. If the dog is well-trained, he can learn almost anything because an Australian Shepherd is one of the smartest dog breeds. Australian Shepherds were bred to be working dogs not simply pets to hang around the house or backyard. You have to take the time and effort into training to get a well-behaved dog. These dogs are smaller versions of the Australian Shepherd. Are Mini Australian Shepherds Good Family Dogs? Mini adult males stand between 14 and 18 inches tall, and this is six inches smaller than the standard size. He may look cute and cuddly, but he was born for hard work. is the new trusted website created to help pets and their owners enjoy a happy life together. Use positive reinforcement training techniques with your Mini Aussie for best results! In spite of his small size, he is perfectly capable of keeping livestock in line. 3. The following are pros and cons of this breed: Pros: Cons: Enjoy most activities with their family : Can become destructive if there isn't enough mental or physical stimulation : Mini Australian Shepherd: Personality & Characteristics. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. If your puppy does not respond to loud noises and has difficulty perceiving commands, he may be deaf in one or both ears. Hip dysplasia is a genetic malformation in the hip socket. It is unfair to keep large active breeds in small apartments. Remember that this breed isnt for everyone. While the Mini is often called the "Miniature Australian Shepherd," the breed's actual name, as registered with the American Kennel Club, is the Miniature American Shepherd. Australian Shepherds are excellent watchdogs because of their innate protective streak. They are also wary of strangers. Through the Petfinder platform, you can also search for adoptable dogs based on breed. Of course, there is no way you will invest their booming barking foreign constant activities they love being outdoors when you take them for a stroll now how is this a disadvantage of having them well if youre a busy pet parent you may not always have the time or energy to play with them so if you The Blue Buffalo adult dry dog food will be a healthy and nutritious food choice for your Australian Shepherd as their active doggos; just see how they jump around in delight. Please see our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy pages for more information. Described as remarkably intelligent by the AKC, the breed was ranked 42nd in the Intelligence Of Dogs. Mini Australian Shepherds may not be the most affectionate breed, but he is always eager to make you proud. This allows him to work well in different and cold climates. Providing enough socialization. These dogs excel at obedience competition, dog sports, agility, and even Frisbee. Australian Shepherds were bred to be herding dogs. By selectively breeding the smallest Aussies this miniature version was created. American Shepherd is just another name for the Australian Shepherd. Enrichment games, puzzle toys, or even interactive feeders can also be great for these busy dogs. Mini Australian shepherds are one of the most popular dog breeds on the market today. They also need a diet that is high in meat content, as they are high-energy dogs. Hip dysplasia is another common issue for this dog breed. This means that they require regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and shiny. A Miniature Australian Shepherd compared to the regular Australian Shepherds is virtually indistinguishable except for the size they come in. The history of the Mini Australian Shepherd begins with the history of the standard Australian Shepherd. If you're considering getting a mini, it's important to review their breed information to ensure this energetic dog is a good fit for your lifestyle. Starting your dog with the grooming process early will make the grooming process more manageable. In fact, theyre ranked 12th in terms of the most popular dog breed in the USA. Finally, every dog and Aussie needs a quality dog harness, so the Rabbit Go tactical dog harness can b I hope you have found this article insightful. Australian Shepherds are one of the smartest dog breeds and can easily pick up anything you try to teach them. First venturing into the freelance space in 2016, Saleema has since had case reports and peer-reviewed articles published in distinguished journals like The NAVTA Journal and Todays Veterinary Nurse, as well as several articles published at various digital publications. If youre a sedentary person, this breeds intense work drive will be too much dog for you. Today, they still herd smaller livestock, but are most often companion animals in households across the globe. They are high-energy dogs that need plenty of exercise. Get the latest news, information and updates from us, delivered directly into your email inbox. Every Australian Shepherd is different in temperament. Training a Mini Australian Shepherd is easy but requires more patience than most other breeds due to its high intelligence. They are naturally protective of their family and will bark if they sense danger. Dog sports are a great way to fulfill both of these needs. This is very important if you want a happy, well-rounded dog. She plays basketball and puts her toys away by name. In conclusion, the Mini Australian Shepherd is a wonderful breed that has its pros and cons. The winter coat of an Aussies shed in the spring. EASY TO TRAIN. A very good watchdog. Australian Shepherds have a mind of their own. first and foremost, atopedia Australian shepherds are one of the most playful dog breeds out there. What else would you expect from such loyal and friendly dogs with a softer side? Can be trained to perform a wide variety of duties. They are a breed that requires a lot of physical activity to stay healthy and happy. as I taught him how to be calm through calmness training, which is something I recommend all owners that have a working breed to look into. If youre thinking about introducing an Australian Shepherd to a home with younger family members, the breed can excel with the right guidance and consistent training. Mini Black & White Australian Shepherds gets to a height of 13 to 18 inches (33cm to 45.7cm) tall at the shoulder and weigh between 30 and 40 pounds (13.6kg to 18.1kg) when fully grown. They love getting jobs to do or doing tricks for your entertainment. Second of all, its important to understand that a mini Australian shepherds coat is quite heavy. These dogs arent aggressive and make a great companion in a household thats active. However, the most sought after colors for this breed are red and blue merle. Owners who may find caring for a larger dog to be too much to handle will be delighted to find a slightly lower maintenance version of the same breed. These dogs can become destructive and start barking if not given enough stimulation. Four years later, it gained recognition under the herding group. The Miniature American Shepherd is often incorrectly called the Miniature Australian Shepherd, though at one time this was an appropriate name for the breed. They will however try herding children and smaller animals like cats, chickens and ducks. Plus, Aussies try to herd cats, which makes the family cats very unappreciative. If not, your dog will become bored and start constantly barking and begin destructive chewing. The Australian Shepherd is smart, agile, and full of energy. Reign in an easily distracted dog by making sure that training takes place in a quiet and secure area. Some Mini Aussies are born with a natural bobtail, whereas others are born with a long, feathery tail. Aussies have a lot of hair, which means youll be doing a lot of grooming. Start by brushing their hair away from their face and ears. A clean coat will help to reduce the amount of hair that is shed. 8. This is something that should be discussed with a veterinarian before bringing a Mini Aussie into your home. Also, Aussies tolerate both hot and cold weather. Fortunately Mini Australian Shepherds learn very quickly. These dogs strictly need plenty of mental stimulation, as well as physical exercise to stay happy. For more information, click the video below: https://thehappypuppysite.com/australian-shepherd-temperament/, https://facty.com/network/answers/things/what-are-the-pros-and-cons-of-an-australian-shepherd/, https://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/reviews/australianshepherds.html, https://www.thesprucepets.com/breed-profile-australian-shepherd-1117935, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rcESyhbP8E, 1818 N Vermont Ave Alex shared his experience contending with some initial separation anxiety issues when he first got Atlas (@miniatlasadventures). 2. You'll likely need to brush your mini daily during these shedding seasons, and at least weekly throughout the rest of the year to prevent tangles or mats. 9 Rare Mastiff Breeds That Are Large and in Charge. The AKC rate the Australian Shepherds affectionateness with the family as a three out of five on their website. Pros Excellent at farm work. Well, lets find out together as we dive into the Australian shepherd pros and cons. They are also wary of strangers. If you're searching for an energetic, affectionate companion, the Australian Shepherd could be the right breed for you! Hes such an affectionate cuddly sweetheart. Oh, these adorable Aussies are the best furry friends you can have, but have you wondered what the pros and cons of having them are? WebPros: Smart, athletic, low maintenance coat compared to many breeds, compact, loving Cons: Will need socialization efforts more than many breeds at a young age and through out their life to be a well balanced and sociable dog. A Mini Aussie is a lot of work, but he is wonderful company. He is better than full sized Aussies at herding smaller livestock such as goats and younger sheep. Some of them are quick-moving, hyperactive, and energetic. If you are an active person or family that is willing to commit to their exercise needs, then a Mini Aussie may be the perfect dog for you. The life expectancy for Aussies are 12-15 years. Australian Shepherds tend to be quite territorial so theyll be naturally suspicious of unfamiliar faces wandering into their home. This blue heeler mix is very high energy and expects to be put to work. When not exercised or given enough stimulation, these dogs can get into all kinds of trouble. At the same time, you can just take your Aussie for multiple walks a day and throw in some training sessions too.

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