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 guard and herd the flock, because of this they bond quickly with their families, they also make good watch dogs and companions. As with any dog, early socialization to people, animals and surroundings is of utmost importance.
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 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 chance 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 along with Luxating Pattellas. All dogs of age ( 2 years) should have their hips exrayed and rated by OFA and or PENNHIP.
Mini Aussies can be wonderful with Children. This requires both dog and children to 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 dogs need their space. When they have had enough play, remove the children from the equasion. Mini's are also a herding breed, while this may be good in some ways, remember that they may be inclined to chase after and even nip at small moving children or cats.
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 to be quiet. An unattended mini may be overly vocal. This can cause a problem if the mini is to live in a neighbourhood with neighbours nearby or in an appartment.
Mini's do not make good guard dogs. Guarding is very different from watching. Mini's should bark to let you know someone is around but they should NEVER show aggression towards a stranger. Mini's may be cautious around new people and may be a bit reserved, but should never show signs of aggression.
While a mini may be smaller sized dog, they are high energy and require quite a bit of exercise to burn off their energy. A mini does not do well if left alone every day all day for long periodscof time, unless your time at home revolves around exercising your mini. Being left in a yard for short periods of time is also not adaquate for a mini. They require a place to run fullout, they enjoy swimming, and most love to chase a ball. They require more exercise than the average dog. If you do not exercise your mini and stimulate his mind, he will find his own way to occupy the time and you may not like what he chooses as a passtime.
Mini's require regular brushing of their coat. The length of coat will determine how often it needs to be brushed. Some mini's have more coat than others. Males tend to have more coat than females. Mini's need minimal bathing, but do require their toe nails trimmed weekly to bi-weekly depending on the surface they exercise on.
