Overview
The Toy Australian Shepherd Mix is a cross between a Toy Australian Shepherd and another dog breed. Because a mixed-breed dog can take on any combination of characteristics from one or both parents, it’s important to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix.
Should a Toy Australian Shepherd Mix take after their Toy Aussie parent, they will be a true companion breed that loves to cuddle. They’ll also be a small energetic dog with a big, playful personality that will fit right in with just about any family.
Temperament
Toy Aussies tend to be affectionate, loyal, and playful little lap dogs. They get along with children and other dogs. And, although they can be initially reserved with strangers, they tend to be friendly and open up quickly.
You should be able to expect something similar in a Toy Australian Shepherd Mix. The other parent breed could throw some other traits into the mix, so you do want to make sure you ask the breeder about them.
You can also meet the mother dog in person to get another idea of what temperament to expect. But, once you get your Toy Australian Shepherd Mix puppy home, it’s up to you to continue training and socialization to make sure they maintain a great temperament as they grow.
Adaptability
Due to their small size, the Toy Australian Shepherd is a highly adaptable dog breed. They do well in apartments as well as larger homes. They are also sensitive to heat, as with any dog breed. And, because they are small, they are also sensitive to the cold. But, bundling up with some winter dog products . will help them handle the cold.
Health
A mixed-breed dog can sometimes be healthier, but it’s not guaranteed. A Toy Australian Shepherd Mix can inherit the potential health conditions common to one, both, or neither of the parent breeds.
From the Toy Aussie side, the potential health concerns include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, eye disorders, blindness, or deafness. Deafness or blindness tends to be more common in puppies with the merle coat coloration, so testing sight and hearing for puppies with this coat is a good idea.
It’s also a good idea to test for the MDR1 gene. This is present in some herdings dogs and, should your Toy Aussie Mix inherit it, it can make them sensitive to certain medications.
Owner Experience
Toy Aussies tend to be highly intelligent, intuitive, and eager to please their owners. This makes them a great fit for dog owners of all experience levels including first-time dog owners.
As long as the other parent breed is also highly trainable, then you should be able to expect the same in a Toy Australian Shepherd Mix. Puppy training classes can also still be a good idea as they often provide opportunities to
Grooming
A mixed-breed dog can end up with a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is truly a blend of both. Should a Toy Australian Shepherd Mix take after their Toy Aussie parent, they will have a medium-length coat that sheds moderately all year.
There may be some heavier shedding as seasons change, but brushing a few times a week and the occasional bath as needed is enough to keep a Toy Aussie coat looking great. The other parent breed could increase or decrease coat care requirements.
Activity Level
Toy Australian Shepherds have a moderate activity level. They are energetic, but they are small dogs that can tire out easily. Daily walks plus some playtime are usually enough for this small dog.
The other parent breed could result in a lower or higher activity level in a Toy Australian Shepherd Mix. Asking the breeder about the other parent breed will give you a good idea of what range to prepare for in a Toy Aussie Mix.
Size
Toy Australian Shepherds usually stand 10-12 inches tall and weigh 7-20 pounds. The other parent breed could affect this, so it’s important to ask the breeder about them. Meeting the mother dog can also give you an idea of what size to expect in your Toy Australian Shepherd Mix.
Life Span
A Toy Australian Shepherd generally lives 12-13 years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span in a Toy Australian Shepherd Mix.