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Miniature american shepherd

Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog miniature american shepherd!

Here, you will find all the useful information about miniature american shepherd. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.

Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.

Overall description of the breed

The Miniature American Shepherd is nothing more than a miniature Australian Shepherd. It all began in the 1960s with the selection work carried out by a few enthusiastic breeders. They started crossing small-sized Australian Shepherds which, after several generations, produced fairly satisfactory results in terms of the morphological criteria they were looking for.

After several years of meticulous selection, the breed's initiators decided to stop mating miniature models with standard-sized dogs, in order to define a true bloodline and a truly distinctive breed... the Miniature American Shepherd Dog was born.

The aim was to produce a small dog, while retaining the shepherding skills and jovial character for which the Australian Shepherd is renowned. Recognition of this new breed is very recent, with the AKC (American Kennel Club) only officially recognising it as a breed in its own right in 2011, classifying it as a shepherd dog.

Although it is not yet recognised by the FCI, it is highly likely that it will appear in the coming years if the official American Kennel Club so requests. Far from remaining confined to the United States, the American Shepherd is slowly gaining in popularity in Europe, arousing the interest and enthusiasm of many amateurs and professionals.

Miniature American Shepherds have a gentle, docile character that makes them easy to train. They embody all the characteristics of the perfect companion dog, just like their close cousin, the Australian Shepherd.

They are very active, playful dogs that are very attached to their owners. They can easily adapt to city life, but will need to exercise every day, as their boundless energy needs to be channelled for their well-being.

Although they can be wary of strangers, once they have been introduced they make ideal, loyal daily companions. Their height at the withers is between 33 and 45 cm (13" to 18"), and their weight generally varies from 14 to 20 kg (30 to 44 lb).

Origins

The Miniature American Shepherd, also known as the Miniature American Shepherd, originates from the United States. This breed is a derivative of the Australian Shepherd, selected in the 1960s for its smaller size while maintaining the working abilities and character traits of its larger sibling. Breeders sought to create a versatile and compact working dog, suitable for herding but also for family life. The result is an intelligent, energetic dog that is very attached to its owners. Today, the Miniature American Shepherd is appreciated for its convenient size, lively intelligence, and friendly temperament.

History

The history of the Miniature American Shepherd begins in the 1960s in California, where breeders passionate about Australian Shepherds began selecting smaller individuals to create a more compact and adaptable version. Initially called Miniature Australian Shepherd, the breed quickly gained popularity due to its practical size and unchanged working skills. In 2011, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed as the Miniature American Shepherd, thus distinguishing this new variety from its ancestor. Since then, the Miniature American Shepherd has won the hearts of many dog lovers, both for its working abilities and its role as a family companion.

Standard

The standard of the Miniature American Shepherd breed, as defined by the American Kennel Club (AKC), describes a medium-sized dog, well-proportioned and balanced. The head is clean and dry, with a slightly rounded skull and a medium-length muzzle. The eyes are almond-shaped, and can be brown, blue or amber, and may be two-colored. The ears are triangular and of medium size, set high and falling forward or to the sides. The body is muscular and compact, with a deep chest and well-sprung ribs. The tail may be naturally short or docked. The coat is of medium length, straight or wavy, with a dense undercoat. Colors include blue merle, red merle, black and red, with or without white and tan markings.

Physical characteristics

The Miniature American Shepherd is a medium-sized dog, generally measuring between 35 and 46 cm at the withers and weighing between 9 and 18 kg. Its body is compact and muscular, with a strong bone structure and an agile appearance. The head is clean and well-proportioned, with a slightly rounded skull and a moderately long muzzle. The eyes are almond-shaped and can be brown, blue, amber, or heterochromatic. The ears are medium-sized, triangular, and set high, falling forward or to the sides. The coat is of medium length, straight or slightly wavy, with a dense undercoat. Coat colors include blue merle, red merle, black, and red, with or without white and tan markings.

Character

The Miniature American Shepherd is known for its intelligent, energetic and affectionate personality. It is extremely devoted to its family, showing great loyalty and a constant desire to please. It is sociable and friendly, but can be reserved with strangers, making it an excellent guard dog. Its lively and playful nature makes it an ideal companion for active families and dog sports enthusiasts. The Miniature American Shepherd is also highly adaptable and gets along well with children and other pets. Its high intelligence and desire to learn make training easy, making this breed versatile and capable of excelling in various roles and activities.

Life expectancy

The Miniature American Shepherd enjoys a relatively long life expectancy, typically between 12 and 15 years. This longevity depends on several factors, including a balanced diet, regular veterinary care, and an active lifestyle. Owners must be attentive to common health problems in this breed, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases, and certain genetic conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups and special attention to physical exercise and mental stimulation contribute to a long and healthy life for the Miniature American Shepherd. With proper care, these sturdy and energetic dogs can be loyal companions for many years.

Exercise and activity needs

The Miniature American Shepherd is an energetic and active breed that requires a significant amount of exercise to stay healthy and happy.

Recommended diet

The diet of the Miniature American Shepherd must be balanced and adapted to its high energy needs. A high-quality food, rich in proteins and essential nutrients, is recommended. Premium kibbles specially formulated for small and medium active breeds are ideal. An adult Miniature American Shepherd consumes on average between 200 and 300 grams of dry food per day, spread over two meals. The monthly cost of feeding varies between 30 and 60 euros, depending on the quality of the chosen products. It is crucial to monitor its weight and avoid overeating, as obesity can lead to various health problems. Dietary supplements may be considered to support joint and heart health, particularly omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine.

Training and obedience

The Miniature American Shepherd is an extremely intelligent and receptive breed, which greatly facilitates its training. It learns quickly and enjoys challenges, making it an ideal student for various types of training. Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praises, are particularly effective with this breed. Consistency and patience are essential, as although it is receptive, it can sometimes be a bit stubborn. Basic commands like "sit," "come," "heel," and "stay" should be taught from the beginning. Early socialization with other dogs and varied environments helps prevent undesirable behaviors and develop a well-balanced dog.

Behavior with children

The Miniature American Shepherd is often considered an excellent companion for children due to its gentle, playful, and protective temperament. It is generally very patient and tolerant with children, enjoying participating in their games and providing a reassuring presence. Its energetic and playful nature makes it an ideal playmate for younger children. However, it is important to supervise interactions between the Miniature American Shepherd and young children to prevent accidental incidents and ensure that the dog is treated with respect. Teaching children to handle the dog gently and respect its needs is crucial for a harmonious cohabitation. With proper socialization, this dog can become a loyal and loving companion for children of all ages.

Compatibility with Other Animals

The Miniature American Shepherd is generally very sociable and gets along well with other pets, including dogs and cats. Its friendly nature and lack of hunting instinct make it an excellent companion for households with multiple animals. It is important to socialize the Miniature American Shepherd from a young age to allow it to become accustomed to the presence of other animals. Introductions should be gradual and supervised to ensure smooth cohabitation. Due to its small size and gentle temperament, the Miniature American Shepherd is not aggressive and is often curious and playful with its four-legged companions. Positive socialization from the start helps strengthen the relationships between the Miniature American Shepherd and other animals in the household.

Grooming needs

The Miniature American Shepherd has a medium-length coat that requires regular maintenance to stay in good condition. Weekly brushing is recommended to remove dead hair and prevent knots and tangles. During shedding periods in spring and autumn, brushing should be intensified to manage excess hair. Baths are only necessary occasionally, or when the dog is particularly dirty, using a gentle dog shampoo. Ears should be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent infections, and teeth should be brushed frequently to avoid dental problems. Nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent injuries. Regular grooming helps quickly detect skin problems or other abnormalities, contributing to the overall health and well-being of the Miniature American Shepherd.

Health

The Miniature American Shepherd is generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, it can be prone to certain health problems. Some common conditions include hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, and some genetic disorders. It is crucial to choose a reputable breeder who tests their dogs for these conditions to minimize risks. Balanced diet, regular exercise, and periodic veterinary visits are essential to maintain their health. Owners should also be attentive to any signs of discomfort and regularly consult a veterinarian for health check-ups. With proper care, the Miniature American Shepherd can live a long and healthy life, with an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years.

Average price

The price of a Miniature American Shepherd can vary considerably depending on several factors, such as lineage, pedigree, breeder reputation, and geographic location. In general, the average price for a Miniature American Shepherd puppy ranges from 1,000 to 2,000 euros. Specimens from champion lines or with exceptional characteristics can cost much more, sometimes up to 3,000 euros or more. It is essential to choose a reputable breeder who respects health and animal welfare standards. Although this may mean paying a higher price, it often guarantees a healthy and well-socialized puppy. Prospective owners should also budget for additional expenses for veterinary care, food, accessories, and training.

Expenses

The monthly expenses for a Miniature American Shepherd can vary depending on several factors, including food, veterinary care, grooming, and accessories. On average, owners can expect to spend between 60 and 100 euros per month. Quality food, tailored to the specific needs of the breed, costs around 30 to 50 euros per month. Regular veterinary care, including vaccinations and parasite treatments, can add 10 to 20 euros per month. Grooming, although minimal, can cost 10 to 20 euros per month if done by a professional. Toys, treats, and other accessories can add an additional 10 to 20 euros. These costs can vary depending on the specific needs of each dog and the owner's choices.

Name ideas

Choosing a name for your Miniature American Shepherd can be a fun and exciting task. Here are some name suggestions that may suit the personality and charming appearance of this breed: Max, Luna, Rocky, Bella, Zeus, Daisy, Charlie, Maya, Rex, Ruby, Thor, Nala, Bruno, Athena, Oscar, Zara, Milo, Sadie, Ginger, Toby. When choosing a name, it is important to consider its pronunciation and make sure it does not sound too similar to basic commands to avoid any confusion during training. Take the time to observe your dog and choose a name that reflects their unique personality and adorable appearance.

Legislation and regulation

In France, the Miniature American Shepherd is not classified as a dangerous breed and is therefore not subject to specific restrictions. However, owners must comply with general regulations regarding dog ownership, including microchipping or tattooing for identification, and up-to-date vaccinations. It is also recommended to take out liability insurance to cover any potential damages caused by their dog. When traveling abroad, it is crucial to check the specific requirements of the destination country regarding health certificates and vaccinations. Always inquire about local and national laws to avoid legal issues and ensure a harmonious cohabitation with the Miniature American Shepherd.

Official recognition

The Miniature American Shepherd is recognized by several cynological organizations around the world. In France, it is recognized by the Société Centrale Canine (SCC). Internationally, it is recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in the United States, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), and the United Kennel Club (UKC). These organizations define the breed standards and organize dog shows where Miniature American Shepherds can be presented and evaluated. Recognition by these organizations also ensures that breeders adhere to health, temperament, and conformation standards, thus contributing to the preservation and improvement of the breed. Pedigrees issued by these organizations guarantee the purity and quality of the bloodlines.

Pedigrees

Miniature American Shepherds can obtain pedigrees recognized by various breed clubs around the world, ensuring their pure lineage and compliance with breed standards. In France, the Société Centrale Canine (SCC) issues pedigrees. In the United States, the American Kennel Club (AKC) offers pedigrees for Miniature American Shepherds. In the United Kingdom, the Kennel Club (KC) also issues pedigrees for this breed. Other organizations such as the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and the United Kennel Club (UKC) recognize and issue pedigrees for Miniature American Shepherds. These organizations verify the dogs' origins and certify that they meet the breed criteria, ensuring the quality and purity of the bloodlines.

Destination and usage

The Miniature American Shepherd is mainly bred as a working and companion dog. Thanks to its intelligence, agility, and versatility, it excels in various disciplines, including dog sports such as agility, flyball, and obedience. It is also used as a herding dog, although on a smaller scale than its larger counterparts. As a companion dog, the Miniature American Shepherd is appreciated for its affectionate and playful temperament, making it an excellent companion for active families. Its small size and adaptable nature allow it to easily fit into apartment or house life, bringing joy and energy to its home.

Prohibitions

In France, the Miniature American Shepherd is not among the dog breeds subject to specific bans or classified as dangerous. However, it is essential to comply with general regulations regarding dog ownership, especially in terms of identification, vaccination, and compliance with local laws concerning pets. In some countries, regulations may vary, and it is crucial to inquire about local and national laws, especially when traveling or moving, to avoid any violation. For example, some countries may have specific requirements regarding the importation of dogs, including health certificates and quarantines. Always check the current regulations to ensure a harmonious and legal cohabitation with your Miniature American Shepherd.

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