Breed Profile
Harrier
- WEIGHT: 40 to 60 lbs
- HEIGHT: 19 to 21 inches
- COLOR(S): Usually black, tan and white, but all hound colors are acceptable. The are usually tricolor.
- BREED GROUP: Hound
Breed Profile
Australian Shepherd - Miniature
WEIGHT: 20 to 40 lbs
HEIGHT: 13 to 18 inches
COLOR(S): Black, red, blue merle, red merle with or without white markings and/or tan points.
GROOMING NEEDS:
EXERCISE NEEDS:
GOOD WITH DOGS:
WATCHDOG ABILITY:
DESCRIPTION
The Miniature Australian Shepherd is a well balanced, athletic, and alert breed. The breed is sensitive, easily trained, a good guardian, confident, and devoted to their families. North American Miniature Australian Shepherds make fine companions and will also enjoy working small stock. They are used in search and rescue and as therapy dogs. They also have a playful side, and love to be around children. Mini Aussies are an exact replica of their larger counterpart, the Australian Shepherd, except for size. Some people consider the Australian Shepherd to have three separate sizes: Standard, Miniature and Toy. Other consider the Toy and Miniature to be in the same category. Regardless, they are all identical save for size. Mini Aussies have sturdy bodies with medium length covering the entire body, with markings and colors of blue merle, black, red, merle, totally red with or without white, with or without tan points. They are compact, quaint dogs with triangular drop ears. Their eyes can be of several different colors, including brown, blue, amber, or any combination of the three. Friendly, fun loving and hard working, the Miniature Australian Shepherd makes an excellent companion and friend.
TEMPERAMENT
Miniature Australian Shepherd are highly trainable, and a versatile family dog and companion. They are wary with strangers but never aggressive. Mini Aussies are very playful and affectionate with their owners, and get along well with children. They have a high prey drive, however, and are not trustworthy with smaller animals. They do, however, get along well with other dogs. They are very intelligent, with a strong instinct to herd and guard. They have high problem solving abilities, and are very obedient when trained. They actually enjoy obedience classes. Mini Aussies are enthusiastic dogs.
GROOMING
Double coat is medium length and straight to slightly wavy. It can be moderately harsh, with a dense undercoat.Regular brushing once or twice a week will help to minimize shedding of the North American Miniature Australian Shepherds' coat and keep the skin and coat healthy.
HEALTH
Eye disorders such as Collie Eye Anomaly and PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), hip dysplasia, and allergies. Other than these, they are a relatively healthy breed.
EXERCISE
As with any herding dog exercise is essential to maintain a healthy, well-balanced dog. Daily walks, obedience training or giving them a job to do is excellent exercise for this breed.
TRAINING
An intelligent breed, they enjoy obedience training. Obedience should come easily. Early socialization is a must, however.