Finding Breeders of Miniature Aussies
With the same characteristics of the full sized Aussie, Miniature Australian Shepherds have been specially bred to a standard of 14″ to 18″ in height. As smaller versions of the lovable dog they are gaining popularity amongst suburban owners as a more pocket sized version with all the great traits of the Australian Shepherd.
You might be tempted to think that these dogs are a cross between Australian Shepherds and smaller dogs (Chihuahuas perhaps?). However, the miniature Australian Shepherd was first bred in the late 1960’s by breeding with the smallest dogs of the litter. Ultimately, this produced a consistently small breed that is being even further bred to even smaller toy and teacup varieties. Creating this miniature version of the breed was done to obtain a well-behaved herding type dog with the coat variations found in the Australian Shepherd, but more suited to living in the suburbs and cities.
If you’re looking to obtain a miniature Australian Shepherd, there are several things you should look for to ensure that you find a good breeder. Firstly, the breeder should be able to demonstrate that the dogs have been bred down from champion standard Australian Shepherd lines. Why? This helps to maintain the good bone structure and characteristics of a working dog. You also need to check whether the breeder is testing their dogs for any genetic faults and is ensuring the integrity of the breed by having their breeding dogs’ eyes certified, as well as their elbows, hips, patella’s, and thyroids checked for problems before breeding with them. They should also do MDR1 Drug Sensitivity testing and send their breeders in for genetic problem evaluations.
Good miniature Australian Shepherd breeders should also be asking you questions to ensure that their dogs will be loved, happy, and appreciated at their new home. Even though they are Miniatures, these dogs still need attention and lots of exercise. A good breeder will want to be certain that you can provide these things before they sell you a puppy. Like their larger standard family members, miniature Aussies are very intelligent and can become bored easily if they aren’t given enough exercise and attention. They can become excessive barkers, diggers and chewers.
And just because they’ve diminished in size, their herding instinct hasn’t diminished. Miniature Aussies will be attracted to chasing and herding livestock and in the absence of such may even try to herd people by nipping at their heels. You need to have the time and patience to train these dogs properly to prevent these types of incidences and socialize the dogs appropriately. Regular, daily exercise is also an important consideration – you need to have an active lifestyle and be prepared to include your dog.
However, for anyone looking for a loyal, energetic, lovable companion that’s a good size for a smaller yard, then Miniature Australian Shepherds are the way to go.
|
Yes! I Want a Happy, Healthy Australian Shepherd Send Me My Free “Secrets to a Healthy Australian Shepherd” Email Course Today! You Will Receive the First Lesson in Your Inbox Immediately. 100% Spam Free! I Value Your Email Privacy. |
