Okay, I must sound like a huge idiot but I'm not a very big Herding dog person. But are shelties and Aussies really that different in personality? If not, then I don't see a purpose to a "miniature" or "toy" aussie. And if shelties and aussies are actually quite similar in temperament (assuming both are properly bred and trained), then what would be the purpose of a "miniature" or "toy" aussie? Sorry, guys, I'm not a fan of downsizing or upsizing any breed. Besides, I'm a big dog person so an Aussie is actually pretty small to me
Aussies and shelties are extremely different in personality. And actually most mini & toy aussies Ive met are smaller than most shelties (though shelties come in such a wide size range too). I agree though, Im not a fan of up or downsizing a breed either. Especially since standard aussies already come in such a huge range of sizes. Brock is 65 lbs and 23 in tall for example and still within standard for height! And Ive seen plenty of 35 lb aussies as well. Personally I dont like the look of the toy & mini aussies, because they just look like toy dogs. Just my personal preference! lol