Miniature American Shepherd
Male: 11-18 kg, Female: 9-15 kg
Males: 35.5-46 cm; Females: 33-43 cm at the shoulder.
12-15 years
United States of America
About the Miniature American Shepherd
The Miniature American Shepherd (MAS) is a highly intelligent and versatile herding dog that originated in California during the late 1960s. Developed from small, unregistered Australian Shepherds, the breed was refined to maintain the intelligence and spirit of a working dog in a more compact size. Despite their smaller stature, they possess the same 'can-do' attitude as their larger ancestors, making them exceptional competitors in dog sports such as agility, flyball, and herding trials. In the home, the MAS is known for being a 'Velcro' dog, forming deep bonds with their family members and often following them from room to room. They are keenly observant and alert, making them excellent watchdogs without being overly aggressive. Because of their high intelligence and energy levels, they require consistent leadership and mental engagement to remain happy and well-adjusted members of the household.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
The Miniature American Shepherd should exhibit an alert, attentive, and intelligent expression with almond-shaped eyes that may be brown, blue, hazel, or amber. In the ring, their movement is effortless, balanced, and ground-covering, displaying agility and sudden changes in direction with ease. Their structure is slightly longer than tall, providing a sturdy yet refined silhouette that emphasizes functional athleticism over bulk.
In Australia
The Miniature American Shepherd was officially recognized by Dogs Australia (ANKC), with this recognition becoming effective on July 1, 2024. Upon this date, the breed was added to the Working Dog Group (Group 5).
Bred For
Herding smaller stock such as sheep and goats, and serving as a versatile, smaller-sized working companion.
Temperament
Intelligent, energetic, loyal, and biddable with a strong desire to please.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
, , (-prcd), Hereditary , Iris Coloboma, Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), , and Multi-Drug Resistance (MDR1) gene mutation.
Grooming Needs
Moderate; requires weekly brushing to manage the double coat and more frequent grooming during seasonal shedding periods.
Living Suitability
Adaptable to various environments including apartments if exercise needs are met, but thrives best in homes with a small to medium yard and active owners.
Good with Kids
Generally good with children, especially when raised with them; they are playful but can sometimes display herding instincts like nipping at heels.
Good with Other Pets
Usually good with other dogs and can live with cats if socialized early, though their herding drive may lead them to 'gather' other household pets.
Trainability
Highly trainable; they are exceptionally smart and eager to learn, making them one of the easiest breeds to train for complex tasks.
Coat & Colours
Double coat with a medium-length, straight to wavy weather-resistant outer coat and a dense undercoat.. Black, Blue Merle, Red (liver), and Red Merle; with or without white markings and/or tan (copper) points.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Prospective owners should be aware that the Miniature American Shepherd is more likely to carry the MDR1 (Multi-Drug Resistance) gene mutation, which can cause life-threatening sensitivities to common medications like certain flea treatments and anesthetics—this doesn't mean every MAS will have it, but DNA testing is essential for safety. As a double-coated breed, they are prone to moderate shedding and will 'blow' their undercoat twice a year, requiring extra vacuuming and grooming during these times. Their high intelligence means they can be prone to boredom-induced behaviors like digging or excessive barking if not mentally stimulated; however, they are wonderfully responsive to training games. Being 'Velcro dogs,' they can be susceptible to separation anxiety if not taught independence from a young age. Their herding background can manifest as a drive to chase moving objects or nip at heels during play—this is a natural instinct that can be easily redirected into toys and sports. While generally healthy, they are more likely to experience hereditary eye conditions and hip dysplasia, so purchasing from health-screened parents is a must. They are also prone to dental disease if their small mouths become overcrowded, so regular dental care is vital. These traits are simply part of the breed's vibrant personality and are easily managed by an engaged, active owner.
Feeding Guide for Your Miniature American Shepherd
Healthy Weight
9-18 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
225-450 grams
For a Miniature American Shepherd, a fresh or raw food diet should be calculated at approximately 2-3% of their ideal adult body weight daily. For an average 13 kg adult, this equates to roughly 325 grams per day. Adjust portions based on individual activity levels and metabolic rate to maintain a lean, athletic condition.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-protein, nutrient-dense diet suited for an active herding breed. They thrive on fresh, whole-food diets that support cognitive function and joint health.
An ideal raw diet for a Miniature American Shepherd focuses on lean, high-quality proteins available from Majestik Pet Food such as Kangaroo, Beef, and Lamb. Given their predisposition to eye health issues, the inclusion of antioxidant-rich vegetables like blueberries and spinach is highly beneficial. For active working MAS, ensure adequate fat content for sustained energy while monitoring weight closely.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Miniature American Shepherd Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Miniature American Shepherd? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
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Made in Two Wells, South Australia
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Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
2-6 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.