The Miniature American Shepherd Dog is a relatively new breed that originated in the United States and is becoming increasingly popular. The Miniature American Shepherd was developed from crossing one or more of the herding breeds with smaller-sized Standard American Shepherds.
The Miniature American Shepherd Dog is a small to medium-sized dog with a sturdy build and is well proportioned. Height varies from 17 to 21 inches at the withers, or shoulder blades, and is briskly built. Its head is broad with erect ears. Its bushy tail is carried over its back. Its coat can be any color combination, but most often is black and white or brown and white with tan markings.
Are Miniature Australian and Miniature American Shepherd Dogs the Same?
A Miniature American Shepherd Dog is not to be confused with the Australian Shepherd. The two breeds are related, but there are both distinct physical and temperamental differences between them. It is a smaller version of the Standard American Shepherd which is its closest relative. While similar in appearance and behavior, the Dog is more energetic and playful than bigger European herding dogs. The Miniature Shepherd Dog should have an easy-care, weatherproof coat that comes in a variety of colors. It should be given weekly brushing to remove dead hairs. The Miniature American Shepherd Dog is an intelligent breed that responds well to training and enjoys learning.
The dog can live in an apartment or small home as long as it gets exercise regularly. It requires spending at least 15-30 minutes every day walking or jogging and playing, and thus is not well suited for lengthy apartment life. The Miniature American Shepherd dog has a high prey drive and should never be trusted with smaller pets such as rabbits or hamsters. It is naturally protective and makes a good watchdog.
How Big do Miniature Shepherds Grow?
A Miniature American Shepherd Dog is a medium-sized breed and can grow up to 21 inches at the withers and weigh between 30 and 50 pounds. Male Miniature American Shepherds are usually larger than females. They have a long lifespan of between 12-15 years.
The Miniature American Shepherd Dog is energetic, intelligent, protective, and devoted to its family. It is a good watchdog and makes a great pet. It does well in an apartment or small home and if it gets proper exercise daily it can grow healthy and strong. Miniature Australian Shepherds can also vary in height depending on the dog’s bloodline.
Are Miniature Shepherds Good Family Dogs?
The Miniature American Shepherd Dog is a great family dog. They are friendly, intelligent, and protective. Below are some reasons why Miniature Australian Shepherds are the best family dogs.
- Friendly to children, strangers, other dogs, and pets.
- Eager to please – they want to make you happy and are good at figuring things out.
- Protective – they will bark to alert you of any strangers at the door or unusual noise. They are watchful and will let you know if something is wrong.
- Affectionate – they are loving and affectionate to their family. They love to be petted and spend time with their family.
- They love exercise – they can spend hours with you jogging, playing ball or Frisbee.
- They are also good watchdogs – they will let you know when someone is approaching your house, but will not attack.
- Miniature American Shepherds are extremely intelligent and loyal. They are also naturally protective of their families and homes. Consequently, Miniature American Shepherds make great guard dogs. However, if they are properly trained and socialized from an early age, they can be gentle with children and other pets.
- Although Miniature American Shepherds are a herding breed, they do not require a large yard to exercise in. They can easily be walked or jogged around the neighborhood. They also enjoy playing fetch or Frisbee and love to swim in the summertime. However, Miniature American Shepherds should always be on-leash with their handlers when walking, jogging, or playing fetch.
- Amazingly, Miniature American Shepherds are just as happy lounging indoors with their families. They enjoy being a part of the family and will sleep with you or near you. They are content to just be with their family.
See also: Focus on the Miniature Husky Breed
And: Small Guard Dog Breeds to Protect You and Your Property
Are Miniature Shepherds Maintenance Costs High?
Not at all, Miniature American Shepherds are very easy to groom and maintain. They have short coats that only need brushing once a week. Miniature American Shepherds shed very little and they are considered to be average shedders. They only need to visit the veterinarian for checkups, vaccinations, and sterilization. You do not need to spend much money on grooming supplies – shampoo, conditioner, rubber brush, and a nail clipper.
They don’t require frequent bathing or trips to the groomers. The Miniature American Shepherds are an intelligent breed that responds well to training and loves learning. Therefore, they are eager to please their family members. This trait makes them easy to train and less costly. Miniature American Shepherds can live in an apartment or small home as long as they get to exercise regularly.
Generally, the cost of maintaining a Miniature American Shepherds is relatively low. The Miniature American Shepherd Dog can be very healthy with proper care and nutrition. They require spending at least 15-30 minutes every day walking or jogging and playing. The Miniature American Shepherd Dog has a high prey drive, and should never be trusted with smaller pets such as rabbits or hamsters. They are naturally protective and make a good watchdog.
Conclusion
The Miniature American Shepherd Dog is the ideal dog for any family looking for a loyal, loving companion. They are very intelligent and eager to please. They are also protective and will alert you to anything unusual. In return, the Miniature American Shepherd Dog needs a family that is willing to spend at least 15 minutes every day to exercise and play with them. The Miniature American Shepherd Dog is an excellent family dog that will love your children, even babies. Miniature American Shepherds are also easy to groom with low grooming costs.
Featured image: Miniature American Shepherd
