|
The Miniature Australian Shepherd (a.k.a. North
American Miniature Australian Shepherd or North American
Shepherd) resulted from a breeding program that was begun in
1968. They originated in California with two small
studs of Australian Shepherd registry. The aim was to produce
a scaled down version of the Australian Shepherd using the small
progeny of Australian Shepherd lines. The smaller dogs
were to be under 18", and exhibit the same intelligence,
temperament and instinct to herd of the larger dogs, but be
small enough to travel easily and be a "house" dog. The "toy"
Australian Shepherds are to be under 13". They also retain the
intelligence, temperament and instinct of the larger dogs, but due
to the much smaller bone structure, they are considered more of
a companion pet than working
dog.
Colors of the mini
aussie include black, blue merle, red and red merle.
All of these coat colors can also include copper points and
white markings. Faults are white areas around eyes and ears,
and white body or splashes of white throughout the
coat.
The head
should be clean cut with the top of the skull of equal length
and width to the muzzle, which tapers to the
tip.
Eyes can be
brown, blue, amber, green or any combination of the four,
including flecked or marbled. Often one eye will be
different from the other.
The MAS needs
regular exercise, which can include outdoor play, walks, runs, or
indoor fetch games. The smaller the dog, the less area it
needs to play. They are a sensitive breed, responding to the
tone of voice of the owner/family. They are good
guardians, and are devoted to their families. They do well
with other pets and children as long as they are socialized at a
young age. They are often reserved at first, among
strangers or in strange situations, but will warm up once they
recognize there is no threat. Aggressive behavior in a mini is
not to be tolerated, and is a breeding
fault.
Miniature
Australian Shepherds have excelled in many
performance events including fly ball, obedience, agility and
herding. Although they cannot be shown at AKC events, there
are many local events for them to compete
in.
MAS can
be registered in the National Stock Dog Registry (NSDR),
North American Miniature Australian Shepherd Club
of America (NAMASCUSA) Miniature Australian Shepherd Club
of America (MASCA).
| 
