| Breed |  Australian Shepherd |  Miniature American Shepherd |
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| Origin | United States | United States (California) |
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| Group | Pastoral | Pastoral |
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| Size | Medium | Small |
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| Coat | Medium length, weather resistant double coat | Medium double coat, often merle |
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| Weight | 14 to 30 kg | 9 to 18 kg |
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| Height | 46 to 58 cm | 33 to 46 cm |
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| Lifespan | 12 to 15 yrs | 12 to 13 yrs |
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| Exercise need | 9/10 | 8/10 |
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| Affection | 8/10 | 8/10 |
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| Grooming needs | 6/10 | 5/10 |
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| Barking | 6/10 | 6/10 |
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| Good with children | 7/10 | 7/10 |
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| Good with other dogs | 7/10 | 7/10 |
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| Trainability | 9/10 | 9/10 |
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| Prey drive | 6/10 | 5/10 |
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| Copes alone | 3/10 | 4/10 |
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| Drool | 2/10 | 1/10 |
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| Shedding | 7/10 | 5/10 |
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| Flat fit | 3/10 | 7/10 |
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| Running cost | €130 / month | €74 / month |
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Australian Shepherd verdict
An intelligent, high energy pastoral dog that requires a dedicated job to thrive.
Get one if
- · Active individuals who enjoy daily hiking or running
- · Owners interested in competitive dog sports like agility
- · Families who can provide structured training and tasks
Think again if
- · Sedentary households with minimal activity levels
- · Owners who are away from home for most of the day
- · Families expecting a calm dog with no training requirements
Miniature American Shepherd verdict
A pocket herding dog with a full-size brain and work ethic.
Get one if
- · Active owners who enjoy training and dog sports
- · Families with older children
- · Flats and smaller homes with committed daily exercise
Think again if
- · Owners wanting a couch-potato small dog
- · Households out all day every day
- · People bothered by seasonal shedding
