Toy Australian Shepherd (Aussie)
The Toy Australian Shepherd has a life expectancy of 12 to 16 years.

Origin
The Toy Australian Shepherd is a bred down version of the Australian Shepherd. Although the name may imply differently, the standard Australian Shepherd was not developed in Australia, but North America. During the California Gold Rush of 1849, Australians traveled to America, bringing their sheep herding dogs with them. Farmers and ranchers bred the dogs and eventually created the Australian Shepherd to herd cattle and do other jobs.  Australian Shepherds became popular pets after they were featured as rodeos performers in the 1950’s, and later in Disney films such as ‘Run Appaloosa Run’.

A smaller version of the Australian Shepherd was first bred many decades later in the 1960s. A California-based woman received numerous Australian Shepherds from the rodeo circuit. The dogs were smaller than the Australian Shepherds she had previously seen. She worked with a local veterinarian to create a breeding program to retain the smaller stature, but preserve the temperament of the Australian Shepherd. Eventually they began producing Miniature Australian Shepherds. From the Miniature Australian Shepherd, various breeders continued to produce smaller versions of the dog until they had the Toy Australian Shepherd.

 

Size
The Toy Australian Shepherd weighs 12 to 20 pounds and measures 10 to 14 inches.

Grooming Needs
The Toy Australian Shepherd has a thick, weather-resistant double coat appearing in black, red, blue merle and red merle. Toy Australian Shepherds are average shedders that shed more heavily during the spring and fall. They should be brushed weekly and bathed only when necessary. Toy Australian Shepherds should also be blow dried following each bath due to their thick coats.

Like all dogs, the Toy Australian Shepherd also needs basic grooming. Brush their teeth, clean their ears and trim their nails on a regular basis.  

Character
The Toy Australian Shepherd is very intelligent, a loyal friend and protector.

Temperament
The Toy Australian Shepherd craves attention and thrives on lots of it from their family. The Toy Australian Shepherds grows quite attached to their family and always wants to be with them. They especially adore older children and get along well with other dogs and family pets. Toy Australian Shepherds are so devoted to their loved ones that they can develop separation anxiety if ignored or left alone for too long.

Although the Toy Australian Shepherd is affectionate and kind with their family, they can be shy with strangers and can be territorial. Toy Australian Shepherds are natural guardians and want to protect their family and home from any threat.

Training Needs
The Toy Australian Shepherd is eager to learn and eager to please. The Toy Australian Shepherd is also quite smart, which makes them fun to train and easy for them to pick up obedience training and go on to compete in activities like herding, Flyball and agility. As part of their training, the Toy Australian Shepherd needs *early socialization* to help them overcome any shy or territorial behavior.

Activity Level
The Toy Australian Shepherd thrives on an active lifestyle. The Toy Australian Shepherd needs mental and physical stimulation in the form of long walks, playtime, running around and games. Their herding instinct makes them a natural for fetching a ball or frisbee. They especially like having a job to do and are great for farm and ranch life where they can help with daily chores. However, there are many that live in cities. Aussies will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. No matter where you live, your Aussie will be happiest to live with you. Australian Shepherds do not do well living a sedentary lifestyle. They thrive on mental stimulation and most will not be happy as a kennel dog. They need social interaction with their owners. Toy and Mini Aussies make excellent house dogs with appropriate exercise.

 

Activity Level: Active

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Affection Level: Affectionate

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Kid Friendliness: Friendly

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