Miniature Australian Shepherd

Name: Andrea & Max Goforth
Address: 1130 N Cherry Dr, Pasco, Washington 99301
Phone: 509-266-4493
Email: info@southerncrosslandandcattle.com
URL: www.southerncrosslandandcattle.com
Club Affiliations and Registries: NSDR, TASAA

Southern Cross Kennels

We get many calls from folks all wanting to know about the Mini & Toy Aussie, in which we try to explain they are the same as the Standard Aussie only smaller! The Mini Aussie was developed directly from the Australian Shepherd. Throughout the history of the Aussie, small (under 18") dogs can be seen in historical photographs. The original Aussie was selectively bred larger as sheep ranching decreased and cattle ranching increased. Cattle ranchers preferred a larger dog to work the larger stock. Some Aussie owners have continued to prefer the smaller sized Aussie while others prefer the larger. We love the Mini and Toy! The second question we often hear is how big do they get? The size standard with the NSDR for both dogs and female dogs is 14 to 18 inches. Toys, which happen occasionally, are 10 to 14 inches, finer boned than the Mini, more of a house pet and/or working small livestock or fowl.

Other questions will pertain to temperament and if they are suitable as family pets. The Aussie is by heritage a herder and guardian. Sometimes their instinct to herd can be mistaken as aggressiveness when they are trying to herd other animals and/or children. Nipping at the ankles is not an uncommon trait in young Aussies with herding instinct, but is easily discouraged with appropriate correction. Properly trained and socialized, they do make wonderful companions and family pets. They are intelligent, loyal, affectionate and protective of their human family and property. But then again, they are not for everyone. Their high energy makes them serious candidates for lots of daily exercise and play. Just as being a wonderful ranch or cow dog, Aussies can excel in the show ring, in agility trials, in obedience as well as in Frisbee or Fly ball.

Miniatures and Toys do well with older children. With strangers, they can be aloof and show reserve but this should not be taken as shyness, they are generally just sizing up the new person making sure they are acceptable before making them a new friend. We have also been asked if Mini Aussies have many health problems. Reputable breeders will OFA for genetic hip problems and CERF for eye problems, their breeding dogs and without good results, should not be bred. Generally, a good diet and regular exercise along with regular vet checkups, vaccinations, and worming is what is necessary to keep your Mini in good health.

All our dogs are healthy and sound and come with health guarantees. We re-emphasize that a rural or suburban lifestyle is best for a mini Aussie and should include a large fenced yard. They should not be allowed to run free, their herding instincts will just get them into trouble if they are not kept in their own area. At Southern Cross Kennels, our dogs are our companions, they are not kenneled and are free to run and play within the confines of our ranch. Puppies are born, center stage, in our house and are lovingly handled and socialized from birth.

We do not ship by commercial air but would gladly assist in your arrangements to either come for the pup or have a courier hired to deliver. If you are new to the breed and considering a puppy, then we also recommend you spend some time researching the breed and talk to other breeders for additional information.

Please visit our website for info on our Aussie Posse, available puppies, prices and health guarantees. Look for litters of pups in the fall and spring of 2008/2009. We do not reserve or take deposits in advance, but would be happy to discuss with you the potential opportunity to give one our babies the perfect loving, forever home!

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Miniature Australian Shepherd Breed Profile

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