Australian shepherd minis need plenty of exercise to burn up their boundless energy. They love to take long walks, runs, and hikes. They also enjoy performing tricks and agility competitions. These high-intensity dogs are at risk for specific health problems like any dog. Learn about their genetic risk factors and how to prevent them.
Health
A Mini Australian Shepherd will thrive on a farm or other large piece of land but adapt well to apartments and homes with plenty of outdoor space. They have big brains and are natural learners. They enjoy games that keep their minds engaged and will work tirelessly to help their humans in any way they can. Their herding instinct makes them very active dogs. If a family isn’t prepared to channel their energy, these dogs can become bored and exhibit pushy behavior. Early training classes and socialization are essential. These dogs can be trained to perform moderate and even expert-level tricks. But they should never be forced to participate in activities that don’t appeal to them, which can lead to frustration and aggression. They will need to be walked daily for at least 90 minutes. This is especially important if you live in an apartment. In this case, you should teach your dog to respond to “call and response” commands to keep them from wandering off. They have a strong herding drive and should be supervised around livestock and children, whom they often consider part of their flock. Take your dog for monthly vet checkups and only buy them from reputable breeders who carry out all the necessary health tests. Feed your dog a high-quality commercial or homemade diet, depending on what your veterinarian recommends. Properly divide their daily ration into multiple meals and monitor their calorie intake to avoid obesity.
Size
If you’re interested in a dog that can do just about anything a standard Australian Shepherd can but in a smaller package, the Mini Aussie is an excellent choice. They’re affectionate and good-natured dogs that thrive on attention from family members and other pets. To keep them healthy, Australian Shepherds require ample exercise and mental stimulation, although less than their larger counterparts. They are also easier to manage due to their smaller size. It is important to note that they typically shed twice annually, necessitating daily brushing during shedding season and weekly brushing throughout the rest of the year to prevent tangling and matting. It would be best to keep their hair trimmed to avoid getting caught up in paw pads and between toes. Keeping up with nail trims and ear cleaning will keep these busy, active dogs looking and feeling great. Like all dogs, Mini Aussies need a balanced diet to stay at their ideal weight and not become overweight. This can be tricky because of their small size, so it’s essential to work with your vet to find a food that meets all their nutritional needs without causing them to gain excess weight. It’s also essential to ensure your Mini Aussie gets enough physical activity to burn off all that energy – if they don’t, they may act out in ways you don’t want them to, such as barking or chewing your favorite slippers.
Temperament
The Miniature Australian Shepherd, or MAS, is a smaller variety of this herding dog that’s still every bit the herder. This compact sporting dog stands 13 to 18 inches at the shoulder, weighs 20 to 40 pounds, and has a double coat in black, blue, red, or merle (with varying amounts of marbling, specks, or blotches). The MAS is an intelligent, eager-to-please dog with plenty of energy to burn. It responds well to training and enjoys outings that occupy both body and mind. It also adjusts well to a family’s lifestyle, making it ideal for active families with children. Early socialization and puppy training classes are recommended to ensure the MAS grows into a well-mannered companion. Like all dogs, the MAS needs plenty of exercise to burn off its boundless energy. A brisk hour-long walk or two will do the trick, as will a game of fetch or a trip to the dog park. It is wary of strangers and may try to herd or jump at them, so it’s important to socialize it from a young age. The MAS has a few health concerns but is generally a robust breed with a life expectancy of around 15 years. They are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, so keeping them at an ideal weight is essential. They can also suffer from progressive retinal atrophy, hereditary cataracts, and iris coloboma.
Training
Mini Aussies are eager learners and can reach their full potential as herding and agility dogs with proper training. They also make loving companions. They must be mentally and physically occupied, so early socialization is crucial. They can adapt to city life as long as they get enough exercise and spend time with their people. They love to play and practice obedience exercises with their people and are quick to pick up tricks. If they are not kept on task, they can become bored and turn to destructive behaviors like chewing and barking. Keep your Aussie on their toes by giving them small tasks throughout the day, like carrying a ball or finding a hidden toy. This will help keep their minds and bodies active and can also be a great way to burn extra energy. These pups can be wary of strangers and may nip or bark to herd them away as they see it as their job to protect their families. This herding instinct can be dangerous in an unfamiliar environment, and it’s essential to socialize them as puppies.