Breed Library

The miniature australian shepherd was developed directly from the australian shepherd. Throughout the history of the aussie, small dogs can be seen in historical photographs.

Spike was purchased by Doris Cordova in 1978. In 1980 Doris was able to get Spike registered as the first Miniature Australian Shepherd of record National Stock Dog Registry (NSDR).

These pictures are of 'foundation' mini aussies, ones that are found in the earliest pedigrees. The majority of the photos are from the personal collection of Kathy Munson (Destiny kennel).

In 1962, Ms. Sandy Travis, of Norco, CA, acquired a very small, unregistered bitch - Travis Puppy, of rough Australian Shepherd type. This bitch was bred to an unregistered Australian Shepherd.

Between 1978 - 1980, Doris Cordova began to acquire some of Sandy Travis’ dogs, embarking on a program to specifically create the miniature version of australian shepherd.

Chas Lasater - horseman is a California, mini aussie breeder. He became interested in breeding miniature shepherds at about the same time as the spouses Bob and Doris Cordova.

Despite the almost complete absence of at least some information about Susan Sinclair and the Wanna'be kennel on the modern Internet, her contribution is invaluable and very important.

Taycin kennel - are a four-generation (just recently became a four-generation) family dedicated to raising quality dogs. Kennel are located in Santa Ynez Valley, California, Santa Barbara County.

The Miniature American Shepherd is a small size herding dog that originated in the US. He is slightly longer than tall with bone that is moderate and in proportion to body size and height without extremes.

In 1980 the National Stock Dog Registry allows Cordova’s Spike to register as the first Miniature Australian Shepherd. The small size quickly gains popularity throughout the USA.

At the moment, several books on the breed of a miniature American Shepherd and Australian Shepherd have been released. You can order them online with delivery or buy in bookstores.

Miniature Australian Shepherds are easy going, perpetual puppies that love to play. Courageous, loyal and affectionate, they are excellent children's companions that are great with active children. A devoted friend and guardian.