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Lakeside's
Jazzy Jack of Applewood
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The ideal Miniature
Australian Shepherd is the mirror image
of the Australian Shepherd in a smaller package. Also known as the North
American Shepherd, these dogs were developed in the
late 1960s by breeding small Australian Shepherds. Originally developed to herd and guard their flocks, their smaller size make them perfectly
suited to our growing urbanization, as well as making them fine traveling
companions. These dogs have also been used in search and rescue work.

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The Miniature Australian Shepherd's preferred
height is 14 to 18 inches at the shoulder. He has a medium-length double coat that comes in blue
merle, red merle, black, and red all with
or without copper/tan and/or white trim. His eyes may be blue, brown,
amber or marbled. He has a naturally or docked bobtail.
Similar in respect to
their forebears, individual dogs may vary in degrees of their activity
level, and herding instinct. In general, they are very
athletic with a
very keen, intelligent mind. They are sensitive, easily trained, and
extremely devoted to their owners. These Shepherds are good with children
and other pets. They will go to great lengths to please. However,
they can be reserved with strangers and make good watch and guard dogs.
These Shepherds have all the attributes of the Australian Shepherd with the
added
advantages of smaller size. As working dogs, they are happiest if
they have something to do. They are seen in the conformation and obedience
rings. These
dogs are active in
agility, flyball, and various kinds of therapy work, as well as working
small stock. Early training and socialization is important. As with
other herding dogs, exercise is critical to maintaining their health and
mental well-being.
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