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What is a Toy Aussie?
A Toy Australian Shepherd (often abbreviated as Toy Aussie) is an Australian Shepherd that is very small. Since “toy” refers to the size, these dogs are sometimes registered as a Mini Aussie, Mini American Shepherd, or simply an Australian Shepherd.
They maintain the typical characteristics of a standard Aussie - highly intelligent, loyal, friendly, and energetic - and the long coats that come in a variety of colors and merle patterns. However, their adult height and weight will be significantly smaller than that of their mini and standard counterparts.
Per American Stock Dog Registry standards, their measurements are:
Standard Aussie: 18 - 23 inches tall (about 40 - 65 lbs)
Mini Aussie: 14 - 18 inches tall (about 20 - 40 lbs)
Toy Aussie: 10 - 14 inches tall (about 6 - 20 lbs)
Toy Aussies may be referred to as Micro or Teacup Toy Aussies on the smaller end of this scale.
Personality Traits
At any size, Aussies are a herding dog breed in need of frequent exercise, mental stimulation, training, and attention. They are excessively loyal to their family (often called a “velcro” dog) and want to be involved in everything you do. They are not usually aggressive, but can be shy around large dogs. They are generally quiet but will alert you of strangers, and express their lively personalities with a variety of growls, whines, and howls when they want something.
Benefits of a Toy Aussie
The toy size will give you a loyal companion eager to hike by your side but in a smaller package. They can be better situated for travel (under your seat on an airplane) and living in smaller accommodations (such as a city apartment). They’ll take up less room on the couch, use smaller supplies, and can be picked up and carried around.
Who is the Toy Aussie best suited for?
An individual or family with an active lifestyle and a flexible schedule who includes the dog in their everyday lives.
Who is the Toy Aussie less suited for?
A busy household that cannot provide daily exercise and is often away from their dog. Toy Aussies can be prone to separation anxiety and destruction if left alone or not exercised enough.
More Info
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