Smaller Australian Shepherds, popularly known as “teacup” or sometimes miniature Australian Shepherds are quickly increasing in popularity due primarily to their adorable appearance. While They have the same qualities as the Standard Australian Shepherd — such as agility and their capability of excelling in obedience and herding — they are much smaller in size.
Teacup Australian Shepherds are arguably one of the friendliest and cutest breeds of small dog. They are under 10″ at the shoulder and most often weigh between 4 and 9 pounds. Mistakenly known as “toy” Australian Shepherds or “miniature” Australian Shepherds, true teacups are even a bit smaller. Real Toy Australian Shepherds are between 10″ and 13″ at the shoulder and weigh between 10 and 16 pounds, while actual Miniatures are 14″ and 15″ at the shoulder and weigh between 18 to 30 pounds.
Typically, all three types of Australian Shepherds have the same color of markings. Their colors are blue, red, or black — but these colors can be mixed with a white or tan marking. The only white marking that should appear on their face should be in a long strip that extends from the back of the head to the area of their snout. These types of dogs also have medium to long hair that is billowy and soft to the touch. The hair on the backs of their legs and around their necks should be slightly longer than the hair on their ears or head. The ears of the teacup Australian Shepherd are floppy and soft. To be considered a true Teacup Australian Shepherd, a dog must meet all of these these requirements.
Teacup Australian Shepherds are playful, affectionate, and great companions for young children. They are also loyal and very protective. Not only will they serve as playmates, but these courageous dogs will defend their small owners if they feel they are in any kind of danger. However, it is important to remember that teacup Australian Shepherds are natural-born herders. As puppies, they may try to bite the back of your heels when you walk by. And, just like the standard Australian Shepherd, teacups will “herd” children unless they receive proper training and exercise.
Teacup Australian Shepherds are very smart and can be easy to train. They can be very intuitive when it comes to knowing what their owners want. But since they are so full of energy and playful, they must have a way to release their energy. A scheduled walk or playtime is a good way to provide your teacup Aussie with exercise. If your teacup Aussie does not receive enough exercise, they could become nervous, anxious, or start bad habits like chewing on shoes or tearing up furniture.
Teacups are very devoted and care deeply, but, just like any other breed of small dog, it is important to establish yourself as pack leader — in a firm but loving way. A lack of leadership on your part could lead to bad behavior such as jumping, excessive barking, and even biting. You need to offer your teacup Aussie a way to be a contributing member of the family. You can do this by taking him with you if you go hunting, fishing, or when you do any type of work outdoors. This will help curb his desire to dominate, and his attempts at that domination will decrease over a shorter period of time.
Teacup Aussies love to cuddle and are wonderful additions to any home. With proper training and exercise, these small, intelligent dogs will become terrific companions for anyone.
