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Choose two breeds. You’ll see the same strip of citeable traits — not a winner, and not kids / apartment / shedding scorecards.

Temperament lines are short plate excerpts, not a verdict. Open each plate for the full entry.

Miniature American Shepherd

Miniature American Shepherd

Herding · United States

  • AKC group

    Herding

  • Size

    Small

  • Height

    33–46 cm (AKC)

  • Weight

    ~9–18 kg (AKC profile)

  • Energy

    High

  • Energy notes

    High. The standard calls the Miniature American Shepherd a highly versatile, energetic dog with the agility, strength and stamina to work over varied terrain, and the Kennel Club recommends one to two hours of exercise a day.

  • Trainability

    High

  • Coat

    The double coat is moderate in every way: medium in length and texture, straight to wavy and weather resistant, with an undercoat that varies with the climate.

  • Origin

    United States

  • Temperament

    The standard describes an intelligent, primarily working dog with strong herding and guardian instincts, and an exceptional companion that is versatile, easily trained and enthusiastic about its work. It may be reserved with strangers but should never be shy.

Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherd

Herding · United States

  • AKC group

    Herding

  • Size

    Medium

  • Height

    46–58 cm (AKC/FCI)

  • Weight

    ~18–29 kg (AKC profile)

  • Energy

    High

  • Energy notes

    High. The standards describe an active working dog with the stamina to work all day.

  • Trainability

    High

  • Coat

    The coat is of medium texture and length, straight to wavy and weather resistant, with an undercoat that varies with the climate.

  • Origin

    United States

  • Temperament

    Both standards describe an intelligent, active dog with strong herding and guarding instincts and an even disposition: good-natured, seldom quarrelsome, and a loyal companion, though it may be somewhat reserved when meeting people for the first time. The FCI adds that Australian Shepherds show an unsurpassed devotion to their families.