Miniature American Shepherd vs Miniature Australian Shepherd
In your quest for a Miniature Australian Shepherd (or Mini Aussie), Toy Australian Shepherd or (Toy Aussie), or Miniature American Shepherd (or Mini American), you might have come upon both these names referring to what seems to be the same adorable dog. Have you wondered about the differences and how the name might sway your choice? Let's explore the history behind how all of this came to be, and I will try to keep it simple and straight forward.
Though the names may not be quite the same, these cute furry companions are essentially the same breed with a shared history. The breed name used will depend on the kennel club they are registered with, with many being dual registered as both Miniature American Shepherd and the size variations of Miniature Australian Shepherd or Toy Australian Shepherd. Stud books are open between the two breed names until January 2025.
Within the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the United Kennel Club (UKC,) these dogs fall under the breed name Miniature American Shepherd. However, in various other registries, including the American Stock Dog Registry (ASDR) and Miniature Australian Shepherd Club of America (MASCA) they are recognized and registered as Miniature Australian Shepherds or Toy Australian Shepherds, depending on size. The similar yet different names reflect historical decisions and preferences within various breeding and kennel clubs.
The tale of two names starts back in the day with the OG Aussie clubs, National Stock Dog Registry (NSDR) and Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA.) The very first Australian Shepherd to be registered with ASCA and NSDR was Hart's Panda, and she is rumored to have been roughly 15-16 inches at the withers. To this day, within the Australian Shepherd breed itself, there is size variation, though ASCA decided to keep the name "Australian Shepherd" regardless of size, emphasizing a preferred height while prioritizing overall quality. On the other hand, the NSDR leaned towards size delineation. Over time and amidst various disagreements, new registries were born. Today, we have a number of registries for both the Australian Shepherd and size classifications within the breed.
When the decision was made to incorporate the Miniature Australian Shepherd ( Mini Aussie ) and Toy Australian Shepherd ( Toy Aussie ) into the AKC, the AKC had already set a rule against allowing additional breeds with the same name to retain a name under different size categories. Adding to the complexity, the politics between USASA and ASCA came into play. Both organizations were a bit possessive about the name "Australian Shepherd," preferring to keep all size variations under one umbrella, as well as noting the potential for other small breeds having been bred into minis and toys to help bring size down at a faster pace than selection alone. To carve out a clear identity for the two breeds, AKC accepted the name "Miniature American Shepherd," a nod to where the breed originated. The AKC officially recognized Miniature American Shepherd as a breed in 2015. Today, many breeders maintain dual registration, as well as participation within clubs that accept either breed name. AKC stud books are scheduled to close as of January 2025.
All of that said, how does this doggy drama impact you? Well, it all comes down to your personal goals. If you're seeking a companion or if your focus is on participating in various sports and you have no intention to breed, the registration politics may not mean much. In choosing your breeder, focus on the essentials: choose a breeder who's serious about health testing – hips, eyes, genetic panels, and the latest Neuroaxonal Dystrophy test at minimum regardless of registry. Healthy age appropriate socialization should be a priority, and ensure your breeder provides a solid post-purchase health guarantee and lifelong support.
If your goal is a breed prospect, it's important to ensure your chosen breeder follows breed recommended health testing while also aligning with your goals regarding the kennel club community and the specific venues for shows or trials you hope to participate in. It's worth noting that ASDR events have some geographical limitations across the USA. AKC mandates that dogs not registered with AKC must be sterilized to compete in any AKC-sanctioned event.
This has been a quick, though not necessarily thorough, peek at what is behind the names of this breed. If you have more questions or need some clarity, just shoot us an email. We are happy to offer more clarity or steer you in the right direction if we do not have the answer. While navigating breed politics can be daunting, don't let it put you off you from finding your perfect furry family member.
Check out our available Mini Australian Shepherd Puppies and Toy Australian Shepherd puppies here! Our Mini Aussies puppies and Toy Aussie puppies are dual registered AKC Miniature American Shepherd.
