Miniature Australian Shepherds

[bckrazy]

I have noticed the same issues with domed skulls & bulging eyes in this breed, as well... but - again - I haven't seen ANY of that from dedicated working & show breeders of Mini Aussies. Primarily because reputable breeders do not deviate from the standard just to produce smaller dogs.

It really is sad that BYB's & PM's are treating the breed like simply an easier, more convenient version of Aussies... because they definitely are not. They just come in a smaller, more compact package that the AKC & Aussie Club of America consider out of standard. I honestly wish the standard for Aussies would instead be altered to include more compact dogs because, honestly, a 16" Aussie can do the same job as a 20" Aussie... and probably much more efficiently than a lumbering 22"+ 70 lb Aussie can.

These are pictures from a breeder that I've talked to a lot. Both dogs are very balanced, & fit the standard exceptionally well. The first dog is 16", the second is 17", and both excel in working. I was actually going to get a pup from the second girl.





These are examples of breeders going for size, with no regards to working or show ability... extremely domed skulls & bulging eyes, and overall poor structure. It's pretty obvious that these dogs are not 100% Aussie.

[Sevaede]

Thank you all much!

I agree, especially with the miniaturizing issue (in that I don't think that it's right to miniaturize all breeds). I think one of the things was some info that I have been reading for a while. It (the breed) was presented as being like how some folks related the Min Pin and Dobie. I have nothing against any of these precious pups, however. I just would feel like I was supporting the wrong thing (millers, etc).

I guess it's back to the drawing board! I can handle pretty much everything. The thing I was going for with a Mini Aussie is strength. I love the Aussie but I wasn't sure if I'd be able to keep up with one. But, plus, they're working and I don't plan on having cows or sheep or whatnot.

I have a lot of time and energy to spare and space is not an issue as we will probably be moving once more (in a couple of years, after I complete some schooling) and then probably buying a place hopefully with a quite a bit of yard (acres, I'm hoping and crossing my fingers for). I would like to get into showing and whatnot. (Affens, mayhaps. I love everything about them!)

Bckrazy, pretty pups! I understand the head/eye problem. It's incredibly aggravating that people are just doing things all willy nilly without giving any consideration towards anything (especially any potential repercussions).