Description: The Miniature Australian Shepherd (which is now known as the North American Shepherd) is a small-medium sized dog that stands 14-18 inches in height and weighs 17-35 pounds. There is also a Toy Australian Shepherd but the only difference is they are smaller. They are a working dog and are best when given a job to do, they are not happy lazing around. The jobs you can give can be quite simple as long as the dog is trained properly. They have a weather resistant coat of a medium length that is wavy and not harsh to the touch. They are a muscular fit dog that has quite powerful back legs. The tail can be docked, in countries that allow it, but is often left natural. They are deep chested and their body is slightly longer than they are tall. The front legs are straight from the well muscled shoulders. Their head is in proportion to the body with the muzzle being half the overall size. The Miniature Australian Shepherd teeth meet in a level or scissor bite. The medium sized eyes are oval shaped and dark in coloration. The ears are triangular and high set with rounded tops. There are several coat colors which are liver, blue, merle, red, and black they can have white markings or tan and even a mix of the two.

History: It is believed that the Australian Shepherd, from which this breed started, was first seen in the Pyrenean Mountains between France and Spain (not Australia, as the name would suggest). They were refined in the US and then bred down in size to obtain the Miniature Australian Shepherd. They have been used for many tasks in the past and are still very good as scent dogs, guard dogs and make excellent companions.

Temperament: With the Miniature Australian Shepherd we have a breed that is truly laid back, mostly happy, and has an excellent demeanor. They are courageous and clever whilst being affectionate and lively. They are intuitive and eager to please with an attentive trait. The dog can be a different animal, when working, as they were bred to guard herds originally and excel at the task with a ferocious vigilance. They require a good deal of exercise and although they can be quite independent they require good consistent exercise and mental stimulation. It is vital the Miniature Australian Shepherd sees you as the pack leader and obeys, or behavioral problems can occur. With kind but firm training they will be content and be a joy to have around. They can have a tendency to nip ankles, in an attempt to heard people; this should be trained out of them, as it is only funny to see the family herded for a short time.

Health issues: The Merle colored dog can suffer blindness or deafness, but not the other colors. The whole breed can suffer other eye issues and spinal, skeletal, problems. The Miniature Australian Shepherd normally lives 12-15 years.

Grooming: Whilst an average shedder the Miniature Australian Shepherd needs only an occasional brushing to keep their coats looking good.

Living conditions: The Miniature Australian Shepherd needs space and exercise they need at least a large yard or garden and will not do at all well in an apartment.