6541 County rd 21, RR#2
Alliston Ont
L9R 1V2
705-424-2423
The height of the Mini Aussie ranges from 14 - 18 inches at the shoulders.
The eager working attitude of the Mini Aussie makes them easy to work with, but their high level of intelligence means that obedience training is a must. The Aussie of any size was bred to herd and guard the flock, because of this they bond quickly with their families, thay also make good watch dogs and companions. As with any dog, early socialization to people , animals, and surroundings is of utmost importance. Even moreso with an Aussie.
The Mini Aussie excells in many activities. Owners and dogs have had much pleasure working together in conformation, obedience, herding, agility, flyball, and disc competitions. They do very well working on ranches and as working dogs for the deaf and disabled.
Mini Aussies are also very athletic. This makes them great companions for the outdoor enthusiast. They do well when included in activities such as sailing, biking, hiking, and camping. As long as the Mini Aussie is spending time with his family, the Mini enjoys just about any task put forth for him.
Mini aussies are generally a healthy breed of dog. However certain issues should be discussed with the breeder to lessen the chances of anything occuring in your puppy. Aussies tend to have eye problems and should be CERF'd annually. Hip dysplasia has also been found in the mini aussie, as well as luxating patella's. All dogs of age should be checked and have hips rated good or better.
Mini's can be wonderful with children. This requires that both dog and children be well trained and supervised at all times. Both kids and dogs have big hearts and may forget to be as gentle as required. Adult supervision will make their relationship a safer one. Always remember that dogs need their space. When they have had enough play, remove the children fromthe equation. Mini's are also a herding breed. While this may be good in some ways, remember that they may be inclined to chase after, even nip at small moving children.
Most Mini's are excellent watch dogs and will allert the family when someone is approaching. Being a vocal breed, they need to be taught when to bark and when not to. An untrained and unattended Mini may be overly vocal. This may pose a problem if you live with neighbours close by.
Guarding is very different from watching. Mini's should bark to let you know someone is approaching. They should NEVER show signs of aggression towards strangers. Mini's may be cautious around new people and may be a bit reserved, but should NEVER show any sighn of aggression.
While a mini may be a small breed of dog, they are high energy and require quite a bit of exercise to burn off energy. A mini does not do well left alone every day all day long, unless your time home revolves around exercising your dog. Being left in a yard and short walks are also not adequate exercise for a mini. They require a place to run full out. They enjoy swimming, and love to chase a ball. They require more exercise than the average dog. If you do not exercise your mini and stimulate his brain, he will find his own way to occupy the time and you may not like what he chooses as a pastime.
Mini's require regular brushing of their coat. The lenght of coat will determine how often it needs brushing. Some mini's will have more coat than others. Males tend to have more coat than females. They require minimal bathing, but do require their toe nails trimmed weekly to biweekly depending on the surface they exercise on.
Mini Aussies come in the same color as the larger size aussie. They can be Blue Merle, red merle, solid black or solid red. All with or without white markings and copper points.
