The Miniature American Shepherd is a small herding breed recognized by the AKC in 2015 and placed in the Herding Group. Compact, agile, and exceptionally intelligent, the MAS delivers the full working capability and mental sophistication of a herding breed in a size that suits a wider range of households. MDR1 gene mutation is a critical health and safety consideration: affected dogs can have severe or fatal reactions to commonly used veterinary medications. DNA testing and veterinary awareness are mandatory for every MAS owner.
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Miniature American Shepherd
Lifespan13 - 15
Average Price$1,500 - $3,500
Weight9 - 189 - 16
Height36 - 4633 - 43
PedigreeYes
Health tests availableOFA Hip Dysplasia Evaluation (AKC CHIC requirement), OFA CAER Eye Evaluation (AKC CHIC requirement), DNA test for Multi-Drug Resistance Gene (MDR1) mutation — critical for veterinary safety, DNA test for Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), DNA test for Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)
NicknamesMAS, Mini American, Miniature Australian Shepherd (former name)
Pros
AKC-recognized herding breed (2015) with full working intelligence in a compact, practical size
Exceptional trainability — consistently excels at AKC herding trials, agility, obedience, and canine sports
Long lifespan of 13 to 15 years
Compact size suits smaller homes while retaining full working-breed intelligence and drive
Cons
MDR1 gene mutation is a life-threatening safety concern — DNA testing and veterinary awareness are non-negotiable
Very high intelligence and herding drive require significant daily mental stimulation and exercise
Herding instinct toward children, other pets, and moving objects requires consistent management
Coat sheds moderately and requires regular brushing
The Miniature American Shepherd traces its origins to the small Australian Shepherds that appeared at rodeos and horse shows across the American West in the 1960s. Breeders selectively developed these compact Aussie-type dogs, registering them as “Miniature Australian Shepherds” before seeking AKC recognition under the name “Miniature American Shepherd” in 2015. The Miniature American Shepherd Club of the USA is the AKC parent club.
The Miniature American Shepherd is a small to medium dog standing 33 to 46 cm at the shoulder and weighing 9 to 18 kg. The coat is medium-length and can be straight to wavy, with Aussie coloring: black, blue merle, red, and red merle with white and copper markings. Striking merle patterns are among the breed’s most visually appealing features. Natural bob tails occur in the breed.
The Miniature American Shepherd is intelligent, alert, and deeply responsive to its handler — a herding breed’s character in full. These dogs form close bonds with their families, are reserved but polite with strangers, and have herding instincts that will express toward children and other pets without consistent training management. They are energetic, engaged, and genuinely stimulating companions for active owners.
The MAS is one of the most trainable small breeds in the AKC registry. MDR1 DNA testing at or before purchase is critical: all treating veterinarians must be informed of the dog’s MDR1 status before any medication is prescribed. The breed excels at AKC herding trials, agility, obedience, and rally.
The MAS is generally good with children in its own family when properly socialized. Herding instinct means some individuals will attempt to nip at or circle running children during excited play; consistent training from puppyhood manages this effectively.
The MDR1 gene mutation is the most critical health consideration for the MAS. Affected dogs experience severe or fatal neurological toxicity from ivermectin, certain anesthetics, and other commonly used veterinary drugs. DNA testing is essential and results must be communicated to all veterinary providers. CEA and PRA DNA tests, OFA hip evaluation, and OFA CAER eye examination are required by AKC CHIC. A healthy MAS typically lives 13 to 15 years.
The MAS thrives in active households with daily mental and physical engagement. MDR1 status management — testing, documenting, and communicating to all veterinary providers — is the most important ongoing care responsibility.
Medium coat requires brushing two to three times weekly and professional grooming every ten to twelve weeks. Bathing every four to six weeks. The coat should not be shaved. Ear cleaning, nail trimming, and teeth brushing complete the routine.
60 minutes of vigorous daily exercise plus structured mental activities. Herding sports, agility, and obedience competition provide the combined physical and cognitive challenge this breed needs. Off-leash exercise in safely enclosed areas only.
High-quality diet for small active breeds, fed twice daily. Lean body condition supports working performance. Fresh water always available.
Miniature American Shepherd puppies from AKC-registered, CHIC-compliant parents typically cost $1,500 to $3,500. MDR1 DNA test results for both parents are strongly advisable alongside CHIC certification. Lancaster Puppies features MAS listings from established US breeders.
Request CHIC certification, MDR1 DNA test results for both parents, CEA and PRA DNA tests, and OFA hip and CAER evaluations. Contact the Miniature American Shepherd Club of the USA for responsible breeder referrals. Lancaster Puppies is an excellent resource for finding family-raised MAS puppies across the United States.
