A Complete Look At The Teacup Australian Shepherd
The Teacup Australian Shepherd, otherwise known as the Miniature Australian Shepherd has been created by selectively breeding specific, smaller Australian Shepherds. These miniature Aussies are quickly increasing in popularity due to their adorable appearance and agility as well as their capability of excelling in obedience and herding.
Physical Characteristics
The Teacup Australian Shepherd has a moderate length coat that often has a pleasant wave to it. They come in red, blue or black tri-color. Regardless of the color, they all have either tan or white markings. The backs of their legs have a feathering appearance and their neck has a bit of a frill or a mane. This petite breed generally is less than 12 pounds at maturity.
Temperament
Courageous, affectionate, loyal, loveable and easy going are the most common words used to describe the Teacup Australian Shepherd. As a puppy, they love to play and they continue to maintain their active characteristics as they mature. They are a devoted friend, phenomenal guardian and are wonderful with children.
These dogs have sort of a sixth sense when it comes to knowing what their owners want and they absolutely love to please. The Teacup Australian Shepherd is agile, attentive and extremely easy to train. As soon as they figure out what it is that you want from them, they are happy to listen, obey and do whatever it takes to make you happy.
Being that they are incredibly smart and active, they require a lot of physical exercise and mental stimulation so it is important to walk them daily and play time should consist of mentally challenging games. Additionally, this is a breed that does not much appreciate being left alone too often or for extended periods of time or they can get very nervous and become destructive so if you do not have sufficient time to dedicate to your dog, this is not the one for you.
Teacup Australian Shepherds can be very suspicious of strangers and attempt to nip at their heels as if they are herding them if they are not properly socialized early. They need to learn that herding humans is not acceptable at an early age. On the other hand, if you have small livestock they are happy to work and they are quiet while working, not at all like other barking breeds.
To avoid Small Dog Syndrome and any human caused behavioral problems, be consistent and confident when training and be sure that you enforce that you are the leader.
Grooming
The coat on the adorable Teacup Australian Shepherd is very easy to groom and really only requires a moderate amount of attention. The outer coat is easy to brush if you use a stiff bristle brush or a pin brush. Pay close attention to brushing the feathering on the legs, the neck area and the rump as these are the areas that are prone to tangling and matting.
They shed an average amount through most of the year but will blow their coat in spring and fall but given their small size it is not really that much hair to be concerned about. This breed had natural oils that help to keep them dry even in damp or cold conditions so be sure to not over bathe and dry out their oils. A dry shampoo is helpful to use between baths to help to remove any dirt from their coat.
Training
The Teacup Australian Shepherd is a real treat to train. They are a breeze to housebreak and are incredibly clean and neat as well. This is a breed that responds the best to positive rewards, verbal praise and plenty of high fives.
They have an amazing ability to understand and respond to a large vocabulary and they should never be spoken to harshly as they can turn cowardly and timid if treated improperly.
This breed is very loyal and will bond with an entire household and even take commands from young children. Additionally, they are comfortable and get along well with other household pets. They make wonderful companions and are a perfect choice of dog to add to your family.