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Miniature American Shepherd

Overview

 In the 1960s, people in the US began breeding smaller versions of Australian Shepherds, using smaller dogs of that breed as well as other unregistered dogs who looked like Australian Shepherds. They wanted to develop an active and intelligent breed like the Australian Shepherd but in a smaller size. The dogs were originally called Miniature Australian Shepherds, but Australian Shepherd lovers were against it, so the name changed to North American Shepherd and finally to Miniature American Shepherd. They are herders, bright, self-motivated dogs who have an affinity for horses.

 

Common Health Conditions

  • Mini American Shepherds are prone to degenerative myelopathy (spinal cord disease) that causes weakness and poor nerve function in the hind legs.
  • Lymphoma or lymphosarcoma is a type of cancer that afflicts Shepherds more than other breeds.
  • Obesity can be a significant health problem in Miniature American Shepherds. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, or metabolic and digestive disorders.
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