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Brief Histories of Mini and Standard Australian Shepherd Dogs
The Miniature American Shepherd or Miniature Australian Shepherd is a small herding dog breed of the sub-type called North American herding dogs. The breed was developed in California in the late 1960s. It is a cross between the Australian Shepherd and the smaller Australian Shepherd-like dog breeds. The Miniature American Shepherd is bred to work stock, but is also a versatile companion dog and excels at agility, obedience, and other dog sports.
The Standard Australian Shepherd, also known as the Aussie, is a medium-sized, robust herding dog breed. Aussies are well balanced, slightly longer than they are tall, with a coat of medium length and coarseness. The breed is intelligent and eager to please, with a strong work ethic and great herding instinct. While they are not considered a separate breed from the Miniature American Shepherd, Standard Australian Shepherds are typically larger in size and have a more robust build.
Characteristics and Needs of Mini and Standard Australian Shepherd Dogs
While Mini and Standard Australian Shepherds are both herding dogs, there are some differences between the two. Standard Australian Shepherds are the larger of the two, standing at 18-23 inches tall and weighing 40-65 pounds. They are also the more active of the two, making them better suited for homes with large yards or acreage. Mini Australian Shepherds are, as their name suggests, smaller than their Standard counterparts. They stand 14-18 inches tall and weigh 20-35 pounds. They are less active than Standard Australian Shepherds, making them better suited for homes with smaller yards or less space.
Both Mini and Standard Australian Shepherds are intelligent, versatile, and loyal dogs. They are quick learners and are easily trained. They are good with children and other animals, and make excellent family pets. They are also protective of their family and home, and make good watchdogs.
Both Mini and Standard Australian Shepherds need plenty of exercise. They are active dogs who need space to run and play. A daily walk or play session is a must, as is access to a large fenced-in yard. They also need plenty of mental stimulation, and love to play games and work on puzzles.
While Mini and Standard Australian Shepherds share many characteristics, there are some differences between the two. Be sure to do your research to decide which size and level of activity is right for you and your family.
Are Mini and Standard Australian Shepherd Dogs Intelligent?
Yes, mini and standard Australian shepherd dogs are intelligent. They are ranked number 11 in Stanley Coren’s The Intelligence of Dogs, and are known for their high trainability.
These dogs were originally bred for herding, and their intelligence and Working Dog heritage make them excel at obedience, agility, and other dog sports. They are also excellent service dogs, and have been known to assist people with disabilities.
Mini and standard Australian shepherds are loyal and affectionate companions, and are good with children. They are active dogs, and need plenty of exercise. They are also known to be vocal, and may bark excessively if not properly trained.
Mini and Standard Australian Shepherd Dogs Behavior and Temperament Characteristics
When most people think of the Australian Shepherd, they picture a medium to large sized dog herding sheep on a farm. However, there is also a miniature version of this popular breed! Miniature Australian Shepherds are simply a smaller version of the Standard Australian Shepherd, and they inherit many of the same characteristics. Both Mini and Standard Aussies are intelligent, active, and loyal dogs who make great companions.
One of the most notable differences between Mini and Standard Aussies is size, of course. Mini Aussies weigh in at around 20-40 pounds, while Standard Aussies typically range from 40-60 pounds. But size isn’t the only difference in appearance – Mini Aussies also have proportionately smaller heads and legs.
While Standard and Mini Aussies share many personality traits, there are a few differences in behavior and temperament. Standard Aussies are typically more active and require more exercise than their Mini counterparts. They also have a higher prey drive and may be more likely to chase small animals. Mini Aussies, on the other hand, are typically a bit more laid back. They still need plenty of exercise, but they’re usually content with a few short walks or play sessions each day.
When it comes to training, both Mini and Standard Aussies are highly intelligent and eager to please, so they usually excel in obedience and other types of training. However, Standard Aussies may be more headstrong and independent, while Mini Aussies are typically a bit more easygoing.
If you’re considering adding an Australian Shepherd to your family, be sure to do your research to decide whether a Standard or Mini Aussie is the right fit for you. Both types of dogs make wonderful companions, but their differences in size, activity level, and temperament should be taken into consideration.
How Much Does a Mini and Standard Australian Shepherd Dog Cost?
Miniature Australian Shepherds are a smaller version of the popular Australian Shepherd. They are intelligent, hardworking, and loyal companions. They are also active and require plenty of exercise. Miniature Australian Shepherds are great with children and other pets.
The cost of a Miniature Australian Shepherd varies depending on the breeder, but on average, you can expect to pay between $600 and $1,200 for a puppy.
Standard Australian Shepherds are the larger version of the popular Australian Shepherd. They are intelligent, hardworking, and loyal companions. They are also active and require plenty of exercise. Standard Australian Shepherds are great with children and other pets.
The cost of a Standard Australian Shepherd varies depending on the breeder, but on average, you can expect to pay between $600 and $1,200 for a puppy.