The attractive traits of the full-size Australian Shepherd can all be found in teacup Australian shepherds. As well as the teacup, there are miniature and toy Australian shepherds being bred. The sizes are differentiated by height and weight. They are not considered separate breeds by most authorities.
The miniature is specified as between 13 and 18 inches in height and 24 to 40 pounds in weight. The toy is 10 to 14 inches and 12 to 17 pounds while the teacup weighs less than 12 pounds. The teacup is about a quarter the size of the standard.
The coat is medium length in all the standard shepherd colors. Blue and red merle, black and red tri-color are all available with tan and/or white patches and markings. The dog has some feathering on the backs of the legs. The coat may be wavy. Grooming needs are minimal. A good brush with a firm-bristled brush and an occasional bath is all the attention they need. They shed a moderate amount.
Although merle dogs are attractive and popular there are problems when two merles are mated. Twenty-five percent of puppies from two merle parents will have hearing and sight problems and may be totally deaf and/or blind. A merle mated to a solid color will also result in some merle puppies but these will not be affected.
Other health problems include hip dysplasia and eye disorders. Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), conjunctivitis and hereditary cataracts affect some dogs. DNA tests can detect the latter. Some dogs carry a MDR1 mutation. This causes excessive sensitivity to certain drugs, including anti-parasitic types. Potential breeding dogs can and should be tested for a number of genetic problems.
In temperament, they are energetic and playful. They enjoy active children and make devoted pets. Like the 'big' version, they are easily trained but quickly get bored if not kept busy and stimulated. They will become destructive if not given enough to do.
They should be socialized well while still puppies. They retain herding instincts and may nip at people's heels in an effort to move them in a certain direction. Because of this instinct, they enjoy working small stock. Firm, consistent training will produce a happy, well-adjusted dog.
These little dogs may be short on size but they are big on energy and need to be kept busy and stimulated. Teaching them tricks or doing obedience or agility with them will satisfy their inherent need to work and be active. Long walks will be necessary if they are to be confined to an apartment most of the time. For anyone wanting an active, small dog, teacup Australian shepherds would be an ideal choice.
The miniature is specified as between 13 and 18 inches in height and 24 to 40 pounds in weight. The toy is 10 to 14 inches and 12 to 17 pounds while the teacup weighs less than 12 pounds. The teacup is about a quarter the size of the standard.
The coat is medium length in all the standard shepherd colors. Blue and red merle, black and red tri-color are all available with tan and/or white patches and markings. The dog has some feathering on the backs of the legs. The coat may be wavy. Grooming needs are minimal. A good brush with a firm-bristled brush and an occasional bath is all the attention they need. They shed a moderate amount.
Although merle dogs are attractive and popular there are problems when two merles are mated. Twenty-five percent of puppies from two merle parents will have hearing and sight problems and may be totally deaf and/or blind. A merle mated to a solid color will also result in some merle puppies but these will not be affected.
Other health problems include hip dysplasia and eye disorders. Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), conjunctivitis and hereditary cataracts affect some dogs. DNA tests can detect the latter. Some dogs carry a MDR1 mutation. This causes excessive sensitivity to certain drugs, including anti-parasitic types. Potential breeding dogs can and should be tested for a number of genetic problems.
In temperament, they are energetic and playful. They enjoy active children and make devoted pets. Like the 'big' version, they are easily trained but quickly get bored if not kept busy and stimulated. They will become destructive if not given enough to do.
They should be socialized well while still puppies. They retain herding instincts and may nip at people's heels in an effort to move them in a certain direction. Because of this instinct, they enjoy working small stock. Firm, consistent training will produce a happy, well-adjusted dog.
These little dogs may be short on size but they are big on energy and need to be kept busy and stimulated. Teaching them tricks or doing obedience or agility with them will satisfy their inherent need to work and be active. Long walks will be necessary if they are to be confined to an apartment most of the time. For anyone wanting an active, small dog, teacup Australian shepherds would be an ideal choice.
About the Author:
Learn about the fabulous Teacup Australian Shepherds available now! You can find the information you will need to choose and train Australian Shepherds more quickly and easily today.. Also published at Indulge Yourself With Teacup Australian Shepherds.
No comments:
Post a Comment