If you love the Australian Shepherd and don't have room for him to roam, think about a Miniature. You'll love them. Remember though that the Mini Australian Shepherd requires lots of exercise just like the standard. Be willing to give of your time to run and play with your new found friend.
I have been studying the Miniature Australian Shepherd for several years and it has taken several years to find the perfect one's to pass on their gene's, as with any breed of animal I believe if you do not do the breed justice, why do it....We are Mini Australian Shepherd Breeders, we want everything the standard aussie has just downsized, their beautiful looks, their loving dispositions, their extreme intelligence and above all breed with excellent health.
Breed Standard for the Miniature Australian Shepherd
Head: Clean cut, top skull flat to slightly rounded; equal in length and with to muzzle which tapers slightly to rounded tip; well de-fined but moderate stop. Muzzle in balance and proportion to rest of head.
Lips: Snug and not hung below the line of mouth
Teeth: Lower incisors close just behind upper incisors
Eyes: Almond shaped, average size, well apart, not sunken or prominent. Eyes may be in any combinations which include flecks or marbling.
Ears: Moderate length, slightly rounded tip, breaking slightly forward to above base. Ears must be in proportion to to dog. Must have color.
Forequarters:
Shoulder blades long and lat, close set at withers.
Feet:
Oval and compact with well arched toes.
Neck & Body:
Neck in proportion with body, slightly arched, well set into shoulders. Body firm & muscular.
Top Line:
Broad and level.
Chest:
Deep & strong, ribs well sprung
Bottomline:
Moderately tucked up.
Croup:
Moderately sloping
Tail:
Straight, natural bobtail or docked not to exceed 3"inches
Hindquarters:
Width approximately equal to width of forequarters.
Hock Joints:
Moderately bent.
Stifles:
Clearly defined
Metatarsi:
Short perpendicular to ground and parallel to each other when slightly wavy, moderate length with undercoat. Quality of undercoat will vary with climate. Short and smooth on head, outside of ears, forelegs and blow hocks. Backs are moderately feathered; breeches moderately full. Moderate mane and frill which is more pronounced in males than females
Colors:
Blue Merle, Black Tri, Red Merle, Red with or without white marks. Tan or Copper points with no preference. Colors strong, clear and rich.
Patterns:
Vary from roan base splotches and bold patches. Each color
may be with or without white &/or copper markings
