History
The Miniature American Shepherd, also known as the Mini Aussie, originated in the United States in the 1960s and 1970s. Breeders wanted to create a smaller version of the Australian Shepherd suited to urban life. Through selective breeding of the smaller specimens of the Australian Shepherd, the Miniature American Shepherd was born.
In 2015, the breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and given "Breed in Development" status. Since then, the popularity of the Miniature American Shepherd has continued to grow, not only in the United States, but also worldwide.
Character
The Miniature American Shepherd is known for its intelligence, friendly nature and high energy level. This breed is very loyal to its owner and gets along well with children and other pets. However, due to their high energy levels, they do need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent them from engaging in destructive behavior.
The Miniature American Shepherd also makes an excellent watchdog because of its watchful nature and warning bark. However, they are not aggressive by nature, making them not a suitable watchdog for those looking for an aggressive guard.
Health
In general, the Miniature American Shepherd is a healthy breed with an average lifespan of 12-15 years. However, as with all dog breeds, health problems can occur, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems. It is therefore important to have your Miniature American Shepherd checked regularly by a vet and to ensure they lead a healthy lifestyle.
Care
The Miniature American Shepherd has a double coat that sheds moderately to heavily. To prevent tangles and clumps, they should be brushed regularly. In addition, the nails should be trimmed and the ears cleaned regularly to prevent infections.
The breed has a high energy requirement and therefore needs sufficient exercise and mental stimulation. Long walks, active play sessions and obedience training are all excellent ways to keep your Miniature American Shepherd active and healthy.