Toy Australian Shepherd is a relatively new breed developed in the 1970s by crossing Mini Australian Shepherds with Standard Australian Shepherds, resulting in a much smaller version of their ranching counterparts.
Like their full-sized cousins, Australian Shepherd Toy is a highly intelligent, loyal companion with a spunky attitude. The Toy Australian Shepherd is a herding dog breed gaining popularity for its intelligence, energy, and loving nature.
Despite their name, Australian Shepherds are not from Australia but from the United States. It is still a mystery how this breed earned the title “Australian Shepherd,” but many think their resemblance to Basque Shepherds from Australia sparked Americans to give them this name!
We’ll explore Toy Australian Shepherd, uncover its distinct characteristics and why these pups are unique, and discover why it might be the perfect pet for you. Read on to find out more about these wonderful furry friends!
Toy Australian Shepherd History and Origins
The history of Toy Australian Shepherds dates back to the early 1800s when Basque shepherds from the Pyrenees Mountains migrated to Australia with their sheep and dogs. These dogs were bred with other working breeds like the Collie and Border Collie to create a new breed known as the Australian Shepherd.
The Toy Australian Shepherd was created in the 1960s by breeding smaller Australian Shepherds selectively. These smaller dogs were then bred with other smaller breeds, such as the Corgi and Sheltie, to create a new, smaller version of the Australian Shepherd.
Toy Australian Shepherds are relatively new, but their origins can be traced back to their working ancestors. As mentioned, the breed was created in the 1960s by selectively breeding smaller Australian Shepherds.
Toy Australian Shepherds were originally bred as companion animals and not used for herding. However, they still retain their intelligence and willingness to work. In addition to excelling in dog sports like obedience, agility, and flyball, they also make excellent family pets.
Toy Australian Shepherd Features
| Height | 10 in – 14 in |
| Weight | 7 lbs. – 20 lbs. |
| Lifespan | 12 – 13 years |
| Coat Type | Slightly Wavy or Straight & Medium Length |
| Temperament | Affectionate, Playful, Intelligent, Loyal, Friendly, Protective, etc. |
| Shedding | Average |
| Breed Group | Herding |
| Breed Size | Small |
| Energy Level | Hyper |
| Colors | Black, Red, Red Merle, Blue Merle, Tri-Color |
| Suitable For | Families, Homes with Yard |
| Other | Easy to Train, Easy to Groom, High Prey Drive Athletic, Good Hiking Companion |
What Does a Australian Shepherd Toy Look Like?
Toy Australian Shepherd Size & Life Span
Toy Australian Shepherds usually stand between 10 – 14 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh anywhere between 7 lbs. – 20 lbs. when fully grown. These pups are considerably smaller than their full-sized counterparts, making them perfect lapdogs who love to cuddle.
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A Toy Australian Shepherd’s average lifespan is between 12 – 13 years. This breed enjoys spending time with their owners as they are loyal and clingy.
While life expectancies vary depending on the health and lifestyle of each pup, with proper diet, exercise, and medical care, owners can help ensure their beloved pet lives full life expectancy.
Australian Shepherd Toy Coat and Color
The Australian Shepherd is a highly sought-after dog breed and comes in various gorgeous colors. From classic tri colors to red and merle patterns, these canines are a delight to admire. It’s not hard to understand why they’re popular pooches!
Most coat color shades fall into the categories: Black, Red, Red Merle, and Blue Merle. Within these main categories are several different variations in shades or markings. Some also boast white patches or a mixture of different colors.
The coat of the Toy Australian Shepherd is one of its defining characteristics. Their coat is similar but smaller and more delicate for their size. This breed has two basic types of coats: a straight coat, which is short and close to the body, and a medium-length coat with a wavy texture.
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Their double coat has an outer layer of dense fur and an insulating layer that’s softer and downy in quality. This combination makes them surprisingly warm and cozy in winter yet cool during summer. You’ll find one that catches your eye regardless of which color or coat type you choose!
Toy Australian Shepherd Facial Features
Toy Australian Shepherds have beautiful and distinct facial features that make them instantly recognizable. The stand-out feature on their face is the black nose and almond-shaped eyes, which come in various colors, including blue, brown, amber, or hazel.
Their ears are usually smaller than average, adorably framing their face. The ears are generally triangular and stand erect at attention most of the time. Both ears typically stand up at once but flop over when relaxed or playing.
Their muzzle tapers down to a pointed nose, and they boast a strong jawline perfect for the herding skills these energetic pups are known for. Curly fur around the cheeks and chin gives them an even more outgoing personality.
Toy Australian Shepherds have a gentle and loving expression despite their alertness, another defining feature of this breed. Toy Australian Shepherds make excellent pets, and their unique facial features are charming.
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Australian Shepherd Toy Temperament
The Australian Shepherd Toy is renowned for being a friendly breed that loves people, especially children. This pup loves people of all ages, making it an ideal family pet in any household setting. Due to their small size and energetic personality, they make great lapdogs too!
They also get along well with other dogs and animals, although they may bark at strangers or unfamiliar dogs if they feel intimidated or threatened. Australian Shepherd Toys are also excellent watchdogs that alert you when someone approaches your home. When it comes to their owners, these sweet little pups are always ready to give lots of love and attention!
They are incredibly loyal and will bond closely with their family members. These little dogs are affectionate, faithful companions who will follow their beloved humans around the house all day, so be prepared for some serious cuddle time!
Australian Shepherd Toy is highly intelligent and eager to please its owners, making training easy. With positive reinforcement techniques such as treats or praise, they will learn commands quickly and respond well when given consistent structure and routine in their daily lives. Early socialization is essential to ensure the pup becomes comfortable around other dogs and animals.
Check this amazing video for more training tips for your Toy Australian Shepherd:
The Australian Shepherd Toy has moderate energy levels but requires regular exercise. About 30 minutes per day should suffice to stay healthy and happy. However, providing interactive toys or engaging in puzzles is important to keep them mentally stimulated and physically fit.
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They also enjoy playing games like fetch or tug of war with their humans or other home pets. They’re also friendly and social, making them excellent therapy dogs for those needing emotional support during tough times.
Australian Shepherd Common Health Problem & Care
Health
Toy Australian Shepherds are known for their beauty and unique personalities but may be prone to specific health issues like other pups.
Hip dysplasia is one of the most common health problems in Toy Australian Shepherds, mainly because they are such an active breed. This condition occurs when the hip joint does not fit into the socket correctly, causing pain and stiffness in the dog’s joints. To reduce the risk of this condition, keep your Toy Australian Shepherd healthy and provide plenty of exercises to stay active and limber.
Toy Australian Shepherds are also prone to eye problems such as cataracts, Distichiasis, and Corneal Dystrophy. These conditions can cause vision loss or blindness if left untreated. Talk to your vet about having your Toy Aussie’s eyes checked regularly to catch any signs of eye disease early on so you can take steps to prevent more severe complications from developing.
Fortunately, there are treatments available for many of these conditions if owners stay current on veterinarian checkups and take preventive measures like providing proper nutrition, exercise, and rest. By doing so, Toy Australian Shepherds can live a long, healthy life full of the love and loyalty they bring to their owners.
Care
Taking care of a Toy Australian Shepherd is rewarding but requires effort. Taking care of a Toy Australian Shepherd should be taken seriously. Those who own this breed of dog should also consider having them evaluated for any genetic diseases or medical issues that can arise from living in a household environment.
Plenty of toys, exercise, and mental stimulation will ensure your Toy Aussie stays mentally and physically fit. Additionally, due to their dynamic nature, it’s essential to provide them with an outlet for their energy. Whether through puppy classes or long walks around the neighborhood, maintaining an active lifestyle is necessary for these small dogs.
Providing quality food and regular veterinary checkups is vital to keep them healthy. You ensure the overall well-being of your pup’s mind and body with reasonable care, enriching its life expectancy.
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Toy Australian Shepherd Grooming
Does Toy Australian Shepherd Shed?
Yes, Toy Australian Shepherds do shed, but the amount of shedding varies from dog to dog. Some may shed more than others due to genetics, health, and environment. Generally, Toy Australian Shepherds have a medium-length double coat, which means they have two layers of fur. The top layer comprises coarser guard hairs that protect against moisture and dirt, while the bottom layer comprises softer strands that provide insulation.
During shedding season, which usually occurs twice a year, Toy Australian Shepherds will shed their undercoat to prepare for the upcoming season. Shedding season usually lasts for a few weeks, when you can expect your dog to shed a lot of fur.
Brushing
Toy Australian Shepherds have a double coat that requires regular brushing to stay healthy. If they have a short coat, you can get away with brushing them once a week. However, if they have a longer coat, you may need to brush them more frequently, up to three or four times per week.
Brush toward hair growth using a slicker brush or pin brush designed specifically for dogs with a double coat. For daily combing, use a wide-toothed or a flea comb that works great on sensitive areas like around their eyes and ears. Make sure you use the right brush for their particular coat type; ask your vet for advice if in doubt.
Bathing
Toy Australian Shepherds should be bathed every four to six weeks (or more frequently if needed). If you bathe your pet too often, it can strip the natural oils from their fur, damaging it over time. To ensure your pup is squeaky clean, brush their coat to remove any tangles or knots before bringing them into the tub or sink.
It’s important to use shampoo designed specifically for dogs that won’t dry out their skin or strip away natural oils from their coat. After bath time, use an absorbent towel to remove as much water as possible before allowing them to air dry completely.
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Consider using conditioner when bathing your pup, especially during heavy shedding periods. The conditioner will help keep the coat soft, silky, and tangle-free. With regular bathing and coat care, your Toy Australian Shepherd will look and feel their best!
Trimming Nails & Ear Cleaning
Nail trimming is another crucial part of grooming your Toy Aussie puppy, or adult dog, as long nails can cause indoor and outdoor damage due to excessive scratching or digging. It can even lead to joint pain if left untreated for too long!
The frequency of nail trimming depends on how quickly the nails grow. Some pups may require nail trims every few weeks, whereas others may only need them every few months. If you don’t feel comfortable trimming your pup’s nails yourself, consider taking them in for regular nail trims at your local pet groomer or veterinarian’s office.
In addition to nail trimming, cleaning your pup’s ears regularly using ear-cleaning wipes explicitly formulated for pets (avoid cotton swabs) is essential. Keeping ears clean will help prevent infections caused by wax buildup and allergens like pollen or dust mites from getting trapped inside the ear canal.
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What Does Toy Australian Shepherd Eat?
When selecting food for your Toy Australian Shepherd, it’s essential to consider their life stage. Puppies need more calories and fat than adult dogs to support their growth and development.
Adult dogs need fewer calories and fats than puppies but need adequate proteins and nutrients to stay healthy. Understanding your pup’s life stage can help you select the best type of food for them. Look for excellent food specially formulated for small-breed dogs like the Toy Australian Shepherd.
Toy Australian Shepherds have specific nutritional requirements to consider when planning their diet. They require a high-quality protein source such as beef, chicken, or lamb and carbohydrates such as rice and vegetables for energy and fiber. Combining these two food groups will ensure your pup gets all the essential vitamins and minerals for optimal health.
In addition to regular meals, consider supplements to ensure your pup gets all the nutrients from its diet. Consider supplementing with specific vitamins or minerals if necessary. Some common accessories include omega-3 fatty acids. Be sure to consult with a veterinarian before giving any supplements.
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Your Toy Australian Shepherd will also enjoy occasional treats like any other pup! You can give them treats made specifically for dogs or some human foods like cooked eggs or peanut butter. However, it is important not to stuff them with treats as this can lead to obesity and other health issues.
Your Toy Australian Shepherd will stay happy and healthy for years with proper nutrition and care!
How Much Should You Feed a Australian Shepherd?
Feeding your Toy Australian Shepherd the right amount of food is essential to maintaining its health and vitality. Depending on size, age, lifestyle, and other factors, it may need anywhere from 1/4 cup to 2 cups of high-quality dry dog food daily.
With so many variables in play, discussing your pet’s needs with a veterinarian is important before determining an appropriate ratio. Additionally, ensure you avoid overfeeding as Toy Australian Shepherds are prone to obesity which can lead to serious health issues.
Lastly, always keep their food bowl filled with fresh water throughout the day so they can stay hydrated and healthy. You can keep your Toy Aussie in great shape for years with proper monitoring and precise portions.
Is a Toy Australian Shepherd Right for You?
If you’re looking for an intelligent and loyal companion that’s great with children and other pets, a Toy Australian Shepherd might be the right choice for you. Firstly, it’s essential to understand that despite their small size, Toy Australian Shepherds are high-energy. Their original purpose was to herd livestock, so they need plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy. Daily walks, runs, or playtime in a fenced yard are necessary to meet their exercise needs.
Toy Australian Shepherds are susceptible to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and eye problems. Health tests should be performed on dogs purchased from a reputable breeder. They’re unsuitable for apartment living and require a large yard to run and play in. Toy Australian Shepherds are highly intelligent and can become destructive if they don’t receive enough attention and mental stimulation.
Pros and Cons of Australian Shepherd Toy
Before bringing a Toy Australian Shepherd into your life, ensure all the pros and cons are considered for having such an intelligent breed.
| Pros | Cons |
| Loyal | Territorial |
| Intelligent | High Prey Drive |
| Natural Guard Dogs | Destructive Behavior |
| Highly Trainable & Adaptable | Require Regular Grooming |
Toy Australian Shepherd Price
A Toy Australian Shepherd puppy can range from $500 to $2,500 depending on different factors such as age, gender, bloodline, size, and color. Additionally, you can expect a higher price tag if you want to buy these pups from Reputable Breeders.
Finding Toy Australian Shepherds at prices that fit any budget is possible. On average, these pups can cost between $650 to $850. With proper research, you can find a puppy from a reputable breeder on a friendly budget.
Additional Expenses
Owning a Toy Australian Shepherd can be a wonderful experience, but the financial costs associated with caring for your pup can add up quickly. Along with providing food, grooming, and love to your dog, it’s important to remember that there are additional expenses to consider when owning a Toy Aussie.
Not only will you need to pay for medical checkups and vaccinations to keep them healthy, but you should also consider the cost of items such as toys, beds, leashes, crates, treats, training classes, and grooming sessions are all necessary as well.
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You may also want to invest in some brushing supplies like dog brushes and nail trimmers if you want to give them proper grooming at home instead of paying extra for a professional service.
In addition to these regular expenses, you should also expect to shell out cash for unexpected veterinary emergencies or medications if needed. Moreover, if you plan to travel with your pup, you may have to purchase a doggy bag full of items like collapsible water dishes to ensure the comfort and hydration of your puppy on the road.
Fortunately, many options are available to help cover these expenses, such as pet insurance and crowdfunding campaigns. Being prepared financially prepares you ahead of time so that you can focus on providing your Toy Aussie Shepherd with unconditional love and support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Toy Australian Shepherds usually stand between 10 – 14 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh anywhere between 7 lbs. – 20 lbs. when fully grown, considerably smaller than their full-sized counterparts, making them perfect lapdogs who love to cuddle.
Yes, Toy Aussie is smaller than a Mini Australian Shepherd. They may look the same but differ in size. Mini Australian Shepherds are larger than Toy Australian Shepherds in height and weight. Mini Australian Shepherd is 4 inches taller than the Toy breed.
Teacup Australian Shepherd is a smaller version of the Standard Australian Shepherd offering the same loyalty, qualities, and loving personality.
No, Toy Australian Shepherds don’t bark a lot. These pups are usually quiet but may bark at strangers if they feel intimidated or threatened, making them good watchdogs.
Toy Aussies are pint-sized pups who usually weigh anywhere between 7 lbs. – 20 lbs. standing no taller than 14 inches at the shoulder when fully grown.
Toy Aussie was developed by crossing Mini Australian Shepherds and Standard Australian Shepherds, resulting in a much smaller version of their ranching counterparts.
Yes, Toy Aussie is renowned for being a friendly breed that loves people, especially children. They are incredibly loyal and will bond closely with their family members. They also get along well with other dogs and animals, making them ideal family pets.
Yes, Toy Aussies are naturally hyperactive like all shepherd breeds, have loads of energy, and require regular exercise to stay happy and mentally stimulated.
Toy Aussie puppies can range from $500 to $2,500 depending on different factors such as age, gender, bloodline, size, and color. On average, these pups can cost $850.
Toy Australian Shepherd is a smaller version of the Standard Australian Shepherd and is officially not recognized. Only Standard Australian Shepherds and Miniature Australian Shepherds that are significantly smaller are officially recognized.
Final Thoughts
Toy Australian Shepherd is a relatively new breed, quickly becoming famous for those looking for a smaller version of the Australian Shepherd. These pups bring plenty of energy into any home thanks to their intelligence and active lifestyle requirements plus, they look adorable while doing it too!
Not only are these little guys incredibly intelligent, but they’re also affectionate and loyal. They also excel in obedience and agility training and make exceptional watchdogs. As with any breed, they require proper socialization, plenty of exercise, and above all else, loads of love.
If you’re looking for a small but mighty pup who loves being part of a family dynamic, look no further than the Toy Australian Shepherd!
The Toy Australian Shepherd is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a loyal canine companion who loves spending time with their family. Whether you’re looking for an active playmate or a cuddly couch companion, they check off all boxes.
We hope this blog helped you decide whether Toy Australian Shepherd is a perfect fit for you. If you are ready to add a Toy Australian Shepherd to your crew, research and find a reputable breeder to get your new furry friend! Good luck & Happy Hunting!
Martin Shaw is a renowned wildlife author with over a decade of experience in the field. He has traveled to some of the most remote and exotic locations worldwide, studying and documenting the behavior and habits of various species.
Shaw’s passion for wildlife began at a young age when he would spend hours exploring the forests and fields near his childhood home. Later, Shaw began working as a field researcher for various conservation organizations, gaining valuable hands-on experience studying and observing wildlife in their natural habitats.
In addition to his research work, Shaw is a highly respected author, having published numerous Articles on animals. His writing is known for its vivid descriptions of the animals he encounters and the insights he has gained from years of studying their behavior. He is a dedicated advocate for conservation, and his work has inspired many others to join the fight to protect the earth’s precious wildlife.