The Miniature American Shepherd is an intelligent and energetic breed developed for herding and companionship. They are medium sized dogs that have a double coat and require daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Origin and Purpose
Developed in the United States as a smaller version of the Australian Shepherd for herding small livestock and companionship.
Appearance
Dimensions
Gender
Height
Weight
Female
13 to 17 inches
20 to 40 pounds
Male
14 to 18 inches
20 to 40 pounds
Coat
Attribute
Notes
Color
Black, blue merle, red (liver) merle, and red (liver), all with or without white markings and/or tan (copper) points.
Type
Double
Length
Medium
Care
Attribute
Notes
Shedding
Moderate to heavy
Grooming
Regular brushing
Drooling
Low
Body
Attribute
Notes
Head
Clean-cut, proportionate to the body
Skull
Slightly domed or flat
Ears
Triangular, of moderate size, set on high
Eyes
Brown, blue, amber, or any combination, including marbled
Nose
Black on blacks and blues, liver on reds and red merles
Muzzle
Tapered
Teeth
Scissors bite
Neck
Moderately arched, strong and in proportion
Forequarters
Well-laid back shoulders
Fore Legs
Straight and strong
Hindquarters
Moderately angulated
Hind Legs
Straight and strong
Feet
Oval, compact, with well-arched toes
Tail
Naturally bobbed, or docked (when allowed in country of registry); may also have a longer tail
Gait
Smooth, free, and effortless
Temperament
Intelligent, eager to please, loyal, and devoted, but can be reserved with strangers.
Social
Attribute
Notes
Affectionate with Family
Very affectionate
Good with Children
Good, with supervision, especially with herding instincts
Good with Dogs
Generally good
Good with Cats
Good, if properly introduced
Openness to Strangers
Can be reserved
Playfulness Level
High
Protective Nature
Moderately protective
Adaptability Level
Adaptable to various living situations
Working Roles
Herding livestock, agility, obedience, therapy, and companion dog.
Exercise Needs
High; requires daily physical and mental stimulation.
Health
Generally healthy, but some may be prone to hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and cataracts.
Additional Notes
Originally registered as Miniature Australian Shepherds, they were renamed in 2015 to Miniature American Shepherds by the AKC.
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