The Miniature American Shepherd is, in a way, the little cousin of the Australian Shepherd, in the sense that it was created from the dogs of this small breed. First bred as a working dog – driving and guarding herds of sheep, then cattle – the Miniature American Shepherd has established itself as a family companion throughout the United States, then in other countries. Its many qualities make it a versatile dog, appreciated by shepherds, children and parents alike.
Breed History
The Miniature American Shepherd breed was born in the late 1960s in California, breeders having specifically selected, within the litters of Australian Shepherds, the puppies of smaller size. The goal was to obtain small dogs endowed with the qualities of the Aussie (intelligence, loyalty, protection, affection…) to excel both in driving and herding and in the role of pet.
Twenty years later, the Mini Aussie has become known all over the United States, thanks to exhibitions, but also by accompanying horse racing enthusiasts all over the country.
The MASCUSA (Miniature American Shepherd Club of the USA) is the first club of the breed, created in 1990. It is still today the official club, affiliated to the AKC (American Kennel Club) which recognized it in 2015.
The FCI (Federation Cynologique Internationale) recognized it in turn, on a provisional basis, in 2019.
In France, the official breed club affiliated with the SCC (Société Centrale Canine) is AFBAM (Association Française du Berger Américain Miniature).
Physical peculiarities
Smaller than the Australian Shepherd, the Miniature American Shepherd inherits a good part of its physical characteristics from the latter. He is naturally built for agility, endurance and work, possessing a moderate frame and displaying slender movements.
His coat: mid-long, double, coarse, straight to wavy and waterproof.
Its color: unicolor (black, red, liver) or merle, with or without white or copper markings. The undercoat is generally lighter than the topcoat.
Its head: as wide as it is long, the top being flat to slightly rounded. The stop is moderately marked, the muzzle tapers to its tip.
Its ears: triangular in shape, mid-length, set high, folded forward when active and awake.
His eyes: almond-shaped, brown, hazel, amber or any combination of these colors, even minnows.
Its body: slightly longer than high, firm and toned.
Its tail: can be naturally short, hanging while being slightly curved at rest. When the dog is in action, it is raised and frankly curved.
Feed
The best way to be sure of providing your Miniature American Shepherd with all the nutritional intake he needs is to opt for high quality kibble. By making sure, of course, to choose the range adapted to his age. This dog can be greedy, it is essential to be attentive to the quantities of treats given to him as rewards, both to please him and during his learning. He risks suffering from obesity if he receives an excess of it.
