The Miniature American Shepherd, or “MAS” as it is sometimes called, is a diminutive herding dog that combines the intelligent, energetic, and trainable nature of its larger counterpart, the Australian Shepherd, with a smaller, more moderate, frame. Known for its agility, loyalty, and affectionate nature, the breed is both a versatile working dog and a devoted companion. These dogs possess a keen intellect, strong herding instincts, and a profound eagerness to please, making them excellent candidates for various dog sports and activities that demand a lot from a dog. Despite their small stature, they are hearty and robust, displaying a work ethic and vigor that belie their size.
AKC Group
Herding
Height
13 – 18 Inches
Weight
20 – 40 Pounds
Lifespan
12 – 13 Years
Highlights
Country of Origin
United States
Bred For
Sheep & Goat Herding, Guarding, Companionship
Known For
Loyalty, Intelligence, Versatility
Popularity
High
Temperament
Devoted, Intelligent, Persistent
Activities
Herding, Running, Hiking, Watchdog, Conformation Shows, Dog Sports
History of the Miniature American Shepherd
The Miniature American Shepherd has a rich history that underscores its popularity and versatility as a breed. Originating in the United States, the MAS was developed from Australian Shepherds that were bred to maintain that breed’s herding abilities, intelligence, and high energy levels but in a smaller package.
In the 1960s, enthusiasts sought to create a compact herder that possessed the agility and drive necessary for effective livestock management. This led to the intentional breeding of smaller Australian Shepherds, a breed renowned for its herding prowess and intelligence. The result was the Miniature American Shepherd, a unique breed that encapsulated the desirable traits of its larger counterpart, but in a dog of more manageable size.
The breed’s popularity quickly grew, especially among equestrian enthusiasts who found the MAS to be an excellent companion for horseback riding activities, given its small size and agility. This affiliation with the horsey set helped to bolster the breed’s popularity across the United States.
In terms of official recognition, the Miniature American Shepherd achieved a significant milestone in 2011 when it was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) within the registry’s Foundation Stock Service, a critical step towards full breed recognition. The breed ultimately achieved full recognition in the Herding Group in 2015.
The Miniature American Shepherd ’s attributes have also seen it gain popularity outside of the United States, with recognition and interest growing in various countries. The breed’s intelligence, agility, and affectionate nature have cemented its status as a beloved companion, both in family settings and competitive arenas around the world.
General Appearance
Height & Weight
Adult male Miniature American Shepherds range from 14 to 18 inches tall at the shoulders, while females are slightly smaller, standing between 13 and 17 inches.
In terms of weight, Miniature American Shepherds typically weigh between 20 and 40 pounds.
Proportion & Substance
The Miniature American Shepherd is slightly longer than it is tall, with a balanced and athletic build that’s fit for function. These dogs possess moderate bone, neither too heavy nor too fine, which supports both agility and stamina. The overall impression is one of a sturdy, resilient dog that has nimble reflexes and is capable of the quick movements that are essential traits of a herding dog. The substance and proportion of a MAS reflect its heritage and the ability to perform the demanding tasks required to herd a variety of livestock.
Coat Texture, Colors & Markings
Texture: The Miniature American Shepherd sports a double coat that is weather-resistant, insulating, and of medium length. Like the dog itself, the coat is moderate, featuring a somewhat wavy to straight outer layer that stands up to various weather conditions. A frill and mane, and feathering on the backs of the forelegs and breeches of the hindquarters, give this hard-working herder a somewhat stylish appearance. The guard hairs are coupled with a soft and dense undercoat that insulates the dog and adapts it seamlessly to both warm and cold environments. This dual-layered coat equips the breed splendidly for a range of outdoor activities.
Miniature American Shepherd Colors
Standard Color
Black
ee
Blue Merle
ee
Red
ee
Red Merle
ee
A Note About Color: The MAS is a particularly colorful breed, appearing in black or red and blue merle or red merle, with or without tan and/or white markings. No preference is given to color and/or markings, and asymmetrical markings are acceptable. Tan may appear around the eyes and on the muzzle, chest, and under the neck. White markings often appear as a blaze on the head and on the muzzle, neck, chest, belly, and legs. Ticking may be present on the white areas.
Miniature American Shepherd Markings
Standard Marking
Tan Points
ee
White Markings
ee
White Markings, Tan Points
ee
Head
Skull: The skull of the MIniature American Shepherd is flat to slightly rounded in shape, with a slight occiput. It tapers slightly towards the muzzle. The width and length are in proportion and there is a slight but definite stop.
Expression: The expression is alert, attentive, and intelligent. The eyes sparkle with a keenness and intensity that reflect the breed’s herding heritage and eagerness to work.
Eyes: The eyes are oval in shape and medium in size, set well apart, and neither protruding nor sunken. Eye color can vary and may be brown, blue, hazel, amber or any combination of colors, with flecks and marbling. The eyes can be of different colors, adding to the breed’s unique appearance. The rims of the eyes should be fully pigmented, matching the color of the coat.
Ears: The ears are triangular, set high on the head, and of moderate size. They break slightly forward or to the side, accentuating the breed’s keen attentiveness.
Muzzle: The muzzle is of medium width and length, tapering slightly towards a rounded tip. It is strong and well-developed, without appearing heavy, square, snipey, or loose.
Nose: The nose is well-pigmented, harmonizing with the color of the coat. Black and Blue Merle dogs have black noses, Red and Red Merle dogs have liver-colored noses. Solid pigmentation is preferred, but a nose that is less than half-pigmented is unacceptable.
Bite: The breed has a scissor bite, where the upper incisors closely overlap the lower incisors and are set square to the jaws. This kind of bite provides the robust grip that is essential for a herding dog.
Tail
The Miniature American Shepherd’s tail, or lack thereof, is a distinctive breed feature. The tail is set low on the body, following the natural line of the croup, and is straight. MAS can be born with either a natural “bobtail” or a long tail. When the tail is long, it reaches at least down to the hocks in a slight curve.
Some MAS have their long tails docked. The decision to do so is most often considered for dogs that are expected to work livestock, but some jurisdictions around the world prohibit the practice altogether. When docked, the tail should not exceed three inches in length. Naturally long tails are carried either straight or slightly curved, but they should never curl over the dog’s back.
The Miniature American Shepherd – What to Consider?
Embracing the Miniature American Shepherd as a companion means welcoming an intelligent, energetic, and affectionate dog into the home. This breed, with its agility and keen senses, is beloved by many who can provide the attentive care and engagement it requires. Prospective owners should be prepared offer an active lifestyle and be ready to invest time into training, exercise, and socialization that will nurture the best qualities in the MAS.
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals will vary. While some breeds may only show genuine warmth towards their owner, remaining standoffish with strangers, other breeds will treat everyone they meet as if they are their closest friend.
IndependentAffectionate
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed. Although supervision is always recommended during introductions, certain breeds tend to be inherently more or less sociable with other dogs, whether in a home setting or in public spaces.
Not RecommendedReliable With Other Dogs
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children, and its overall suitability as a family member, will vary. It is important to always supervise interactions between dogs and the kids in the house, as well as with children who are not accustomed to being around dogs.
Not RecommendedDependable With Children
Upkeep
Amount Of Shedding
The amount of hair that a dog sheds will typically depend on its breed. Heavy-shedding breeds require more frequent brushing, have a higher chance of activating specific allergies, and often necessitate more frequent use of the vacuum cleaner and lint rollers.
LowHigh
Frequency Of Grooming
The regularity with which a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming, or other forms of coat care is an all-important consideration. When evaluating the grooming effort required, consider your available time, patience, and budget. It is important to note that all breeds need routine ear, teeth, and nail care.
MonthlyDaily
Amount Of Drooling
The tendency of a breed to drool significantly varies from breed to breed. For those who prefer cleanliness or are particular about keeping things tidy, breeds that are likely to leave trails of drool on your arm or large slobbery marks on your clothing and furniture might not be the best fit.
LowHigh
Coat Type
smooth
wiry
hairless
rough
corded
double
curly
wavy
sikly
Coat Length
short
medium
long
Behavior
Acceptance Of New People
The likelihood of a breed to be friendly towards strangers will vary. While some breeds may consistently exhibit reserve or caution around unfamiliar people, regardless of the setting, others are often eager to greet and interact with any new person they meet.
ReservedOutgoing
Protective Nature
The propensity of a dog to notify you of the presence of strangers is breed-dependent. Some breeds are more inclined to respond to any perceived threat, be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, most breeds are generally more accepting of strangers who are welcomed by their human family members.
Minimal InterestMaximum Vigilance
Playfulness Level
The likelihood of a breed remaining playful beyond puppyhood will vary. Certain breeds retain their enthusiasm for activities like tug-of-war or games of fetch well into their adult years, whereas others are more content to simply lounge on the sofa with you for the majority of time.
LowHigh
Adaptability Level
The ease with which a breed can adapt to changes in its environment can vary greatly. This adaptability encompasses how well a breed is likely to cope with alterations to its home and yard, noise levels, weather conditions, daily routines, and other fluctuations in everyday life.
LowHigh
Personality
Trainability Level
The ease with which a dog can be trained and its eagerness to learn new skills can depend on the breed. Some breeds are naturally inclined to please their owners and will readily accept training, while others tend to follow their own desires, often showing independence in how, when, and where they choose to do things.
StubbornEager
Barking Level
The frequency of vocalization, including barking and howling, will vary from breed to breed. Some may bark at each person who passes by and every bird in the sky, while others will typically bark only for a good reason. Additionally, a few breeds that do not typically bark will still be vocal, using different sounds to communicate.
QuietVocal
Energy Level
The level of physical exercise and mental engagement required will depend on the breed. High-energy breeds are always on the go. They are enthusiastic about their next activity and tend to be busy most of the time, running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. In contrast, low-energy breeds are akin to couch potatoes, content to just lounge around and take naps throughout the day.
Couch PotatoBusybody
Need For Mental Stimulation
The extent of mental stimulation needed to keep a dog content and healthy will vary by breed. Dogs bred for specific purposes may need tasks involving decision-making, problem-solving, and concentration. Without sufficient mental exercise, these dogs can resort to creating their own activities to engage their minds, resulting in unwanted behaviors like chewing, digging, and escaping.
Minimal EngagementIntensive Interaction
Miniature American Shepherd Health
The Miniature American Shepherd is generally a hardy and healthy breed, known for its stamina and resilience. However, as with all breeds and mixed breeds, they are not immune to certain health conditions. Being proactive and informed about the potential health risks is crucial.
Lifespan: The lifespan of a Miniature American Shepherd typically ranges from 12 to 13 years, although with proper care, regular veterinary check-ups, and a balanced diet some individuals can enjoy a longer, healthier life.
Potential Health Risks
The Miniature American Shepherd is a sturdy and agile breed, but like all dogs, individuals can be susceptible to specific health conditions. Here is a list of potential risks that owners should be aware of:
Hip Dysplasia: Tis is a condition where the thigh bone doesn’t fit snugly into the hip joint. Dogs with hip dysplasia may demonstrate pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, although some will not display any outward signs of discomfort.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): One of a family of eye diseases, PRA involves the gradual deterioration of the retina.
Degenerative Myelopathy: This is a spinal cord disorder that can lead to paralysis of the back end of the dog.
MDR1 Gene Mutation: This mutation makes the dog sensitive to certain drugs that are commonly used in veterinary medicine, which can lead to serious adverse reactions.
Epilepsy: This is a neurological condition that can cause seizures.
It is crucial for owners to maintain an open relationship with their dog’s breeder and to provide regular veterinary check-ups. These exams can allow for early detection and management of any health issue, contributing to a longer, healthier life for the dog.
Miniature American Shepherd Personality
The Miniature American Shepherd is renowned for its intelligence, agility, and affectionate nature, making it a delightful companion for active families and individuals alike. However, potential owners should be aware that this breed demands engagement and thrives in an environment where the dogs can exercise both their minds and their bodies.
While the MAS can be a good choice for novice owners, it is important to understand that this breed requires consistent training and socialization from the start. The intelligence of these dogs means they can pick up on commands quickly, but it also means they need mental stimulation to prevent boredom and the development of any undesirable behavior.
In terms of sensitivity, the Miniature American Shepherd has a responsive nature, one that is attuned to its owner’s emotions and to the environment. This sensitivity, while contributing to the breed’s trainability, also means these dogs prefer a stable, consistent living environment.
When it comes to being alone, the MAS values companionship and may not appreciate being left alone for extended periods. Engaging toys and activities, as well as regular interaction with family members, can help to mitigate any potential issues related to brief periods of being separated.
Regarding their interaction with other dogs, Miniature American Shepherds generally get along well with their canine counterparts, particularly when properly introduced and socialized from a young age. Their herding instinct, however, may come into play, and it is not uncommon for these dogs to try and herd other pets or even people.
In terms of the breed’s behavior with young children, the MAS can be a wonderful family pet, although its interaction with very young kids should always be supervised. Teaching children how to appropriately interact with the dog, and training the MAS to be gentle with kids, is crucial for a encouraging a reliable relationship.
While this breed can be reserved around strangers, proper socialization can help to ensure that the Miniature American Shepherd remains friendly and open to new experiences. The breed’s alert nature can make these dogs excellent watchdogs, although they should be taught to distinguish between normal and abnormal behavior to prevent wariness or excessive nervousness.
Miniature American Shepherd Feeding & Nutrition
Providing a balanced and nutritious diet is crucial for the overall health and well-being of a Miniature American Shepherd. This vibrant and active breed necessitates high-quality dog food that aligns with their age, size, and activity level.
When feeding a Miniature American Shepherd puppy, it’s crucial to provide them with a diet specifically formulated for puppies, particularly for medium-sized breeds. Puppies have different nutritional needs compared to adult dogs, and feeding them the right food is imperative for their growth and development. A puppy should be fed three to four times a day as they require a steady supply of energy for their playful and active behavior.
As they mature into adulthood, their feeding regimen should transition to two meals per day. Adult Miniature American Shepherds generally do well on a balanced diet of high-quality, commercially available dog food. However, the exact amount of food they require can vary based on their age, size, and activity level. On average, a Miniature American Shepherd might require between 1 to 1.5 cups of dry dog food per day, but this should be adjusted to maintain their optimal weight and health.
When figuring out the suitable portion sizes and feeding schedule for a Miniature American Shepherd, it is advisable to seek advice from a veterinarian. They can offer valuable recommendations tailored to the unique health condition of the dog, making certain that it receives the necessary nutrients in proper quantities
In addition to their regular meals, it’s important to monitor the amount of treats given, especially during training sessions. Treats are a helpful training aid, but they should only constitute a small portion of the dog’s daily caloric intake.
Lastly, always make sure that fresh water is readily available, providing them with constant hydration, which is crucial for their overall health.
Miniature American Shepherd Training
Training a Miniature American Shepherd, known for its intelligence and eagerness to learn, can be a gratifying experience. They typically respond well to training sessions, making them a suitable option for both novice and experienced dog handlers. However, it’s vital to start training and socialization early in their life to foster good behavior and adaptability.
With a high level of intelligence, this breed grasps commands quickly, but they also require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and the potential for unwanted behaviors. Incorporating games and activities that challenge their intellect can be beneficial. Puzzle toys and obedience training are excellent ways to keep their minds engaged.
When it comes to vocalizations, the Miniature American Shepherds have a tendency to bark, especially if they are trying to alert their human companion of something they deem important. Training them to understand when to bark and when to be quiet is crucial, especially if they reside in a community with close neighbors.
Exploring new environments and potentially wandering off can be tempting for a Miniature American Shepherd due to their herding instincts and curiosity. Therefore, training them to have a reliable recall and making sure that they have a secure area to play are vital for their safety.
Predatory behavior is not commonly seen in this breed, but it’s still important to monitor their interactions with smaller pets due to their herding instinct. Positive reinforcement techniques work well in training them to behave appropriately around other animals.
Miniature American Shepherd Exercise
Owning a Miniature American Shepherd comes with the commitment to meet their high exercise needs. This breed brims with energy and enthusiasm, requiring regular physical activity to maintain their health and happiness.
Exercise Expectations
Energy Level
High
Exercise Requirements
2 Hours/Day (Minimum), Daily Walks, Vigorous Running, Regular Exercise, Playing with Another Dog, Mental Stimulation
With a considerable energy level, Miniature American Shepherds benefit from a variety of exercises including walks, play sessions, and participation in dog sports. They exhibit an
