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Australian Shepherd and Miniature American Shepherd, courtesy JD Smith

Miniature Australian Shepherd

Quick Facts

Weight: 20 – 40 pounds
Height: 13 – 18 inches

The Look of a Miniature Australian Shepherd

Miniature Australian Shepherds are a hardy and rustic breed — a little longer than tall. They have slightly rounded heads, medium-length muzzles and almond-shaped eyes. Their ears are triangular and set high, their chests are deep and their tails are straight. They have a medium-length, weather-resistant coat that’s slightly wavy, creating a little bit of a mane. Like their larger cousins, Miniature Australian Shepherds can be found in black, blue merle, red merle, solid-red or red with white and/or tan markings. Overall, Miniature Australian Shepherds have a rugged but cuddly look.

Thumbnail: Photography by Kayla Bertagnolli, as captured at the 2018 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

Traits

Miniature Australian Shepherd Traits:

Calm
Playful
Trainable
Dependable
Protective
Intelligent

Ideal Human Companion

Who gets along with Mini Aussies?

Active singles
Outdoorsy types
Families
City dwellers

What They Are Like to Live With

Miniature Australian Shepherd. Photography by Kayla Bertagnolli, as captured at the 2018 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

If you’re an apartment dweller who loves boisterous Australian Shepherds, take a look at Miniature Australian Shepherds, which deliver all of the Aussie’s easygoing, dependable playfulness in a much smaller package.

When it comes to their love of play, Miniature Australian Shepherds never really outgrow the puppy stage. They are superb with children—the more active, the better. But they have a gentle nature that prevents playtime from ever getting rough. They are also eager to work: Give them a job and they’ll finish it with loads of energy to spare.

Miniature Australian Shepherds have excellent guarding instincts and a strong sense of loyalty to their families. They will definitely cause a ruckus if anything suspicious happens around the house.

Things You Should Know

Left alone indoors for too long, Miniature Australian Shepherds can go a little batty. Take them out for a long run as often as possible—the activity and mental stimulation will result in a very content Miniature Australian Shepherd.

A healthy Miniature Australian Shepherd can live as long as 13 years. Common health issues include hip dysplasia and cataracts. Some may be born deaf, so test puppies early. Do Miniature Australian Shepherds shed? Miniature Australian Shepherds don’t shed very much, and they only need occasional brushing.