The Miniature American Shepherd was started as a breed in 1968 from a group of small select Australian Shepherds. Their motivation was to create a dog with the characteristics that made the Australian Shepherd great, but in a package small enough to better allow them to be house dogs and easier travelers.

Sizes range from 13-18" tall, measured at the top of the shoulders, weighing between 15-35 pounds at maturity. It is in the "Herding Group" and is seen in the Breed and Obedience Ring., as well as in the home as a supremely devoted companion and pet.

They come in coat colors of blue merle, red merle, black or red tri or bi. All come with or without copper/tan and white trim. Their eyes may be blue, brown, hazel, amber or one blue one brown or have flecks or be marbled. Their tails are sometimes naturally bobbed and longer ones are docked.

BREED STANDARD by AKC

The Miniature American Shepherd is a small size herding dog that originated in the United States. He is slightly longer than tall with bone that is moderate and in proportion to body size and height without extremes. Movement is smooth, easy, and balanced. Exceptional agility combined with strength and stamina allows for working over a variety of terrain. This highly versatile, energetic dog makes an excellent athlete with superior intelligence and a willingness to please those to whom he is devoted. He is both a loyal companion and a biddable worker, which is evident in his watchful expression. The double coat of medium length and coarseness may be solid in color or merled, with or without white and/or tan (copper) markings. He traditionally has a docked or natural bobtail.