BOONE'S MINIATURE
AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERDS
About Mini
Aussies
HIstory
A breeding program to develop the Miniature Australian Shepherd (North American Miniature Australian Shepherd) was begun in 1968 using small Australian Shepherds. Breeders bred them down in size to produce a smaller dog and today continue to strive to produce a mirror image of the Australian Shepherd in a size that fits well into today's lifestyle, without sacrificing instinct, ability or character.
Description
The Miniature Australian Shepherd comes in blue or red merle, red or black tri-color, each with white or tan markings. They also come in Bi-color lacking the third marking. Regardless of the rest of the coat, the hair around the eyes and ears should not be white in show dogs. The coat may be straight or wavy, but is of medium length. The hair on the head, front of the forelegs and on the outside of the ears is shorter than the rest of the coat, there should be a mane around the neck, and the back of the legs are feathered. Eye color varies - green, brown, or light blue eyes, as well as one eye green and brown, blue and brown, or green and blue.
Character
This breed is easy-going, loyal and affectionate. They are naturally protective and excellent guardians, but are also great with children. They love to play, and indeed need a great deal of exercise every day. They are highly intelligent, and easy to train, but if they are not kept occupied they may become destructive. They become very attached to their owners and can suffer separation anxiety if left alone for even a few minutes. They must be well-socialized as puppies, as they are suspicious of strangers. They have a strong herding instinct, and have a tendency to nip people's ankles in an attempt to herd them. They are usually not dog-aggressive, and they don't bark very much.
Stats
Dog Breed Group: Herding Dogs
Height: 13 - 18 inches
Weight: 15 - 35 pounds
Life Span: 12 to 15 years
