Toy Australian Shepherd Breed Guide

Australian Shepherds are known for their energy and ability to work with cattle, but there's also another type of Australian Shepherd that has gained in popularity in recent years - the Toy Aussie

These smaller dogs have the same qualities as standard-sized shepherds such as agility and excellent obedience skills but they are just much smaller (and some would say cuter!)

Toys are between 10" and 13" at the shoulder and weigh between 10 and 16 pounds, while a miniature Australian Shepherd is typically 14" and 15" at the shoulder and weigh between 18 to 30 pounds.

All three types of Australian Shepherds have the same colours and markings, black, red, or blue, but these colours can be mixed with a tan or white marking.

The only white marking that should appear on their face should be in a long strip that extends from the back of the head to the snout area.

Just like their larger cousins they also have medium to long hair that is billowy and soft to the touch. The hair around their necks and on the backs of their legs should be slightly longer than the hair on their head or ear area.

The ears of the Toy Australian Shepherd are floppy and soft. A dog must meet these requirements to be considered a true Toy Australian Shepherd.

Behaviour and Training

Toy Australian Shepherds are affectionate and playful dogs, which makes them great companions for young children. However, just like standard Australian Shepherds, Toys will “herd” children if they are not properly trained - although this is one way of getting the kids to come when they are called!

As natural-born herders, Toy Aussie puppies may also try to bite the back of your heels when you walk by, but this is usually only gentle and playful.

Luckily Toy Australian Shepherds are very smart and usually easy to train this behaviour out of them. However, like any other breed of small dog, you must establish yourself as pack leader, in a firm but loving way. A lack of leadership could lead to bad behavior such as excessive barking, jumping, and even nipping.

Toy Aussies are loyal and very protective. So they will not only serve as playmates, these courageous dogs will defend their small owners if they feel they are in any kind of danger.

They are very intuitive when it comes to knowing what their owners want and tend to m a strong bond with a few humans and ignore most others. Aussies love to cuddle with their humans though, making them a great family pet

Exercise

But since they are so playful and energetic, they must have a way to release their energy.

If your teacup Aussie does not receive enough exercise, they tend to, invent ways to keep themselves amused and burn energy like chewing on shoes or tearing up furniture.

A scheduled walk, playtime, and training are good ways to provide your Aussie with exercise and stimulation.

Teacup Australian Shepherds

If a Toy Aussie is still a bit large, Teacups are a bit smaller still.

Teacup Australian Shepherds are typically under 10" at the shoulder and weigh between 4 and 9 pounds.