The “breed standard” for a Miniature Australian Shepherd (Mini Aussie) outlines the ideal physical and temperament traits. Here’s a general guide to the standards that we strive for with each puppy: 

Size:

• Height: 13–18 inches (33–46 cm) at the shoulder.

• Weight: 20–40 pounds (9–18 kg).

Coat:

• Texture: Medium length, with a wavy or straight texture.

• Color: Merle (blue merle or red merle), solid black, red, or red tri (black or red with tan and white markings).

• Markings: White markings on the face, chest, and legs are common, as well as tan points.

Head:

• Shape: The head should be of moderate size with a balanced proportion to the body.

• Eyes: Almond-shaped, with colors ranging from blue to brown, or even one of each (heterochromia is common).

Ears (for Miniature Australian Shepherd):

• Shape: Triangular and of medium size.

• Position: Set high on the head, with a moderate fold near the top of the ear.

• Ear Movement: The ears should have a natural “fold” depending on the dog’s individual characteristics.

• Expression: The ears help convey the dog’s alert, intelligent, and expressive personality, and often perk up when the dog is curious or attentive. The ideal ear shape for a Mini Aussie is moderately folded, giving them a soft, alert, and expressive appearance. Pricked ears are not considered typical for the breed standard.

Pricked ears are not standard for Miniature Australian Shepherds (Mini Aussies) because they do not align with the breed’s ideal appearance, which is based on the working and herding heritage of the Australian Shepherd. The breed standard for Mini Aussies calls for triangular ears that are moderately set high on the head, typically with a moderate fold near the top to middle of the ear.

Body:

• Build: Medium, athletic, and compact with a strong bone structure. The body is slightly longer than tall.

• Tail: Typically docked, some may have a natural bobtail. However, we keep tails intact! 

Temperament:

• Personality: Energetic, intelligent, loyal, and hardworking. They thrive in active households and need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.

• Temperament: Good with families and children, but they may be reserved with strangers. However, Mini Aussies are generally social dogs that enjoy being part of family activities, making them great additions to family life.

For show standards, the breed is judged based on how closely these characteristics match the ideal form.

These features complement the Miniature Australian Shepherd’s overall alert and attentive appearance.

Overall, mini Aussies offer a combination of loyalty, intelligence, and affection that makes them well-suited for families who are active and ready to provide attention and care.

Pricked ears are more commonly seen in other breeds like the German Shepherd or the Siberian Husky, but for Mini Aussies, pricked ears would be an anomaly and not consistent with the breed’s established traits. Pricked ears don’t affect a Mini Aussie’s ability to be a great companion, but they do deviate from the breed standard and can raise questions about genetic lineage. Responsible breeders aim to maintain the breed’s traditional characteristics, ensuring Mini Aussies retain their classic look, temperament, and structure.

Mini Aussies are bred to be compact, agile, and functional herders, and their ear shape and positioning contribute to their expressive, alert appearance. The moderately folded or drop ear is part of the breed’s overall structure, which ensures they have the correct look and temperament. Having pricked ears would detract from the balance and proportion that is characteristic of the breed. Below are examples of Raised Right Pups with the correct ear form versus the pricked ears example on the right from a different breeder.