![]() ![]() In the early days, when the breed was still coalescing, they were known by many names including Spanish Shepherd, Pastor Dog, Bob-Tail, Blue Heeler, New Mexican Shepherd and California Shepherd. Because, in American minds, anything from Australia was “Australian” and the dogs herded sheep, the resulting dogs were misnamed Australian Shepherds. ![]() The dogs we now know as Aussies developed from interbreeding those Basque dogs with equally talented American farm dogs of no particular breed. They still communicate in their own dialect. where they live in trailers – now motorized – that resemble the horse-drawn caravans their ancestors used. Descendants of those herders still work with sheep in the far western U.S. In the 1800’s, when Australian sheep were exported to the United States, some of the shepherds and their dogs went along. Some of the herders traveled to Australia to care for sheep and the dogs went with them. The Basques were, and still are, excellent shepherds, and they developed dogs to aid them in their work. The Australian Shepherd’s roots reach back to the Basque region of the Pyrenees Mountains that lie between France and Spain. She had a favorite type of ball and she would play all day! Ruby and Rio produced a litter of puppies and “River” was the pick of the litter. Ruby was a beautiful deep red tri with the most wonderful playfulness. The Mini Aussie still has the temperament, herding instinct and are healthy, hardy dogs that make great companions, just like the standard size, only in a smaller package!Īfter much research on pedigree’s, health, genetic issues, temperament and conformation, I decided on a lovely red tri and named her “Ruby”. I liked the idea that the Mini was smaller, Approximately 30lbs. ![]() I decided to get another Aussies, but this time I wanted a “Mini”. Megan lived to be about 15 years old… and I missed her so much. She kept the horses and the goats in line! She had a natural ability to understand commands and her boundaries, along with a sweet disposition. I had a small farm with horses and 2 goats, that actually belonged to the neighbor. My first Aussie Experience, Megan! “In 1991, I purchased a Blue Merle pup. ![]()
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