The Mini Ausidoodle: An Energetic Little Dog

The Mini Ausidoodle is a relatively new mixed breed that is growing in popularity within the United States. This little dog combines the athleticism of the Miniature Australian Shepherd with the wit and drive of the Miniature or toy Poodle. In this article, we will be explaining everything that dog lovers need to know about the Mini Ausidoodle. 

What is a Mini Ausidoodle?

A miniature Ausidoodle is a cross between the Miniature Australian Shepherd and either a Miniature Poodle or a Toy Poodle. This cross creates a dog that is relatively small in size and lively in spirit. Though when and where the first Ausidoodle was bred is unclear, the breed is believed to have been first created at some time in the 1990s. Here we will be explaining a bit more about the Mini Ausidoodle’s parent breeds. 

The Miniature or Toy Poodle 

Either the Miniature Poodle or the Toy Poodle is used for breeding Mini Ausidoodles. The two breeds are incredibly similar in temperaments, but the Toy Poodle is smaller than the Miniature Poodle. As a result, smaller-sized Mini Ausidoodles typically have a Toy Poodle in their lineage, while larger Mini Ausidoodles are more likely to have a Miniature Poodle parent. 

The Miniature Australian Shepherd 

Also called the Miniature American Shepherd, the Miniature Australian Shepherd was created in the 1960s by selectively breeding smaller purebred Australian Shepherds until they reached the smaller size seen today. Today, the AKC accepts the Miniature American Shepherd as its own breed separate from the Australian Shepherd. 

What was the Mini Ausidoodle Bred For? 

The Mini Ausidoodle was bred to be a dog that will excel in agility and obedience competitions while also being a good family and companion dog. Today most Mini Ausidoodles can be found living as a companion to their owners. 

What Does a Mini Ausidoodle Look Like? 

The Mini Ausidoodle has a unique and beautiful appearance that takes characteristics from both the Miniature Poodle and the Miniature American Shepherd. Here is a description of what the Mini Ausidoodle is supposed to look like. 

The Mini Ausidoodle’s Coat 

The Mini Ausidoodle has a coat that is either wavy or curly in texture, and the more Poodle DNA that a Mini Ausidoodle has the more likely they are to have a curly coat. The coat on a Mini Ausidoodle can come in a wide range of colors and patterns ranging from solid black to blue merle. Other variations of blue and black coats are available as well along with variations of red, white, brown, silver,  and grey. 

Are Mini Ausidoodles Hypoallergenic? 

Many people will consider curly-coated Mini Ausidoodles to be hypoallergenic. This is because these curly coats do not shed as much as other types of dog hair. However, there is no such thing as a purely hypoallergenic dog, so it is always a good idea to spend some time with Mini Ausidoodles before getting one if you are worried about allergies. 

Similarly, Mini Ausidoodles with wavy or more straight hair are technically more likely to trigger an allergic reaction in those with dog allergies than curly coated Mini Ausidoodles. This is because wavy-haired Mini Ausidoodles tend to shed much more than curly-coated Ausidoodles. 

Other Unique Characteristics 

The Mini Ausidoodle can have eyes that are either brown or stunning blue. This blue-eyed gene comes from their Mini Australian Shepherd parent. Additionally, Mini Ausidoodles will have short floppy ears and a muzzle that is proportionate to their head. Their body shape will also be of a proportionate size with a long tail that either curl over the dog’s back or lies straight behind them.  

How Big Does a Full Grown Mini Ausidoodle Get? 

Mini Ausidoodle Height 

Mini Ausidoodles’ height can range from 12 to 28 inches at the shoulder. Mini Ausidoodles with a Miniature Poodle parent tend to be taller than Mini Ausidoodles with a Toy Poodle parent. There is not much difference in height between males and females. 

Mini Ausidoodle Weight 

The Mini Ausidoodle can vary greatly in weight, and they can weigh anywhere between 15 and 35 pounds. Like with their height, Mini Ausidoodles with a Miniature Poodle parent tend to weigh more than those with Toy Poodle parents. There is not much of a difference in weight between male and female Mini Ausidoodles. 

How to Take Care of a Mini Ausidoodle 

Like with any other type of dog, there are some things that you are going to need to know about taking care of a Mini Ausidoodle before you welcome one into your family. Here is everything that prospective Mini Ausidoodle owners need to know about taking care of this breed hybrid. 

How Much Exercise Does a Mini Ausidoodle Need? 

The Mini Ausidoodle is a high-energy dog that requires around an hour of exercise each day. Mini Ausidoodles love to engage in athletic activities like hiking and agility, so this dog could be a great fit for those who would like to regularly do dog sports or exercise with their dog. An under-exercised Mini Ausidoodle is more likely to engage in undesired behaviors such as chewing and tearing up objects or running around the house. 

Do Mini Ausidoodles Need Grooming? 

Mini Ausidoodles have coats that also require daily brushing in order to stay tangle and mat free. You can brush out a Mini Ausidoodle’s coat using a pin brush and a deshedder brush. This will get rid of tangles and also get rid of shedding hair. 

In addition to brushing your Mini Ausidoodle’s coat daily, you will also need to brush your dog’s teeth every day as well. This will keep the teeth clean and prevent dental disease. Keeping your Mini Ausidoodle’s nails trimmed will also keep them healthy and comfortable. 

Of course, it is also important that you keep your Mini Ausidoodle’s ears clean as well. Due to the fact that Mini Ausidoodles have floppy ears, they may be more likely to harbor debris and ear infections. As a result, it is always a good idea to check your Mini Ausidoodle’s ears regularly and clean them out with an ear cleaner made for dogs when necessary. 

What is the Best Diet for Mini Ausidoodles? 

Mini Ausidoodles need around two cups of food per day. It is best to feed this portion in two one-cup meals in order to prevent complications like bloat. 

Mini Ausidoodles can also develop food allergies. These food allergies are often to cheap dog food fillers like corn, wheat, and soy products. However, artificial colors and flavor additives can also trigger a Mini Ausidoodle’s food allergies as well. 

Are Mini Ausidoodles Easy to Train? 

Mini Ausidoodles are considered to be fairly easy to train when it comes to teaching them tricks and basic obedience commands. Additionally, Mini Ausidoodles tend to excel at agility training. However, basic obedience training and proper socialization are still very important when it comes to owning a Mini Ausidoodle. An untrained and unsocialized dog is much more likely to develop serious behavioral issues. 

Are Mini Ausidoodles Easy to Potty Train? 

When it comes to potty training, Mini Ausidoodles are known to be fairly easy. This is especially true when Mini Ausidoodle owners establish a potty schedule early on and stick to it as much as possible. 

What is the Mini Ausidoodle’s Temperament?

The Mini Ausidoodle has a playful and energetic temperament. These dogs truly love to run around and play. Mini Ausidoodles are also known to be open to strangers and get along with just about anyone when properly socialized. Here is some more information about the Mini Ausidoodle’s temperament. 

Does the Mini Ausidoodle do Well With Children? 

The Mini Ausidoodle is known to do very well around children of all ages. This is because Mini Ausidoodles tend to be playful dogs that love attention, making this breed a good fit for active families with kids. Additionally, Mini Ausidoodles tend to be sturdy enough that they are not as easily harmed by children as more tiny dogs are. 

Does the Mini Ausidoodle do Well With Other Pets? 

Mini Ausidoodles tend to behave well around cats and other dogs, especially when well socialized to them from an early age. However, Mini Ausidoodles may have the urge to chase cats. While this behavior is usually harmless, it may mean that Mini Ausidoodles do not make a good fit for some families with cats. 

Are Mini Ausidoodles Aggressive? 

Mini Ausidoodles are not known to be innately aggressive. However, any dog could technically develop aggressive behaviors if they are mistreated or unsocialized. 

What Environment is Ideal for the Mini Ausidoodle? 

Mini Ausidoodles are small dogs that can do fine in an apartment setting as long as their exercise needs are regularly met. That being said, Mini Ausidoodles do need a lot of exercise, so they tend to do better in rural and suburban environments. 

When it comes to weather, Mini Ausidoodles are not known to be overly sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. However, they can be as susceptible to negative health effects from extreme heat and cold as any other dog breed. 

What is the Average Lifespan of a Mini Ausidoodle? 

The average lifespan for a Mini Ausidoodle is 12 to 15 years. This is fairly average compared to other dog breeds of a similar size. 

Mini Ausidoodle Common Health Issues 

Like most other dog breeds, the Mini Ausidoodle can be prone to some health issues that can be passed down genetically. Here are some genetic health conditions that have been seen in Mini Ausidoodles. 

• Hip Dysplasia 
• Patellar Luxation 
• Leg-Calve Perthes Disease 
• Von Willebrand’s Disease 
• Canine Cushing’s Disease 
• Addison’s Disease 
• Mitral Valve Dysplasia 
• Deafness 
• Cataracts 
• Retinal Dysplasia 
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) 
• Hypothyroidism 
• Epilepsy 

This list may seem extensive and frightening. However, the good news is that most of these medical conditions can be prevented and tested for through health and genetic testing. This also means that you are less likely to encounter the above conditions when you get your Mini Ausidoodle puppy from a responsible breeder. 

How Much Does a Mini Ausidoodle Cost? 

Most Mini Ausidoodle puppies from a good breeder will cost anywhere between $1,000 and $3,000, especially when bought as a puppy. Occasionally you can find Mini Ausidoodle puppies that are either above or below this price range. However, a cheap Mini Ausidoodle puppy from a breeder is usually a sign that the puppy has not been bred responsibly. 

Other Similar Dog Breeds 

Like the idea of the Mini Ausidoodle but are not sure about welcoming this breed hybrid into your home? Well, there are plenty of similar dog breeds to choose from! This includes the Mini Ausidoodle’s parent breeds the Miniature Poodle and the Miniature American Shepherd. Additionally, the Shetland Sheepdog is fairly similar to the Mini Ausidoodle in temperament and care needs. Here are some dog breeds that are similar to the Mini Ausidoodle! 

The Miniature Poodle 

The Miniature Poodle is one of the Mini Ausidoodle’s parent breeds, and they are pretty similar to their parents in appearance. The Miniature Poodle is around 10 to 15 pounds and stands a bit shorter than the Mini Ausidoodle. However, Miniature Poodles are also guaranteed to have that stunning curly coat. Like the Mini Ausidoodle, the Miniature Poodle also requires daily brushing and grooming. 

Unlike the Mini Ausidoodle though, the Miniature Poodle tends to be more manageable temperament-wise for most people. This is because the Miniature Poodle will usually have less energy and needs less exercise than the Mini Ausidoodle does. The Miniature Poodle will also lack the herding instincts that can occur in Mini Ausidoodles. Additionally, the Miniature Poodle is incredibly intelligent and easy to train. 

The Miniature American Shepherd 

The Miniature American Shepherd is the other parent breed of the Mini Ausidoodle, and they are a great option for those who like the temperament of the Mini Ausidoodle but do not want to do so much grooming. Like the Mini Ausidoodle, these dogs have a ton of energy and thrive when they get plenty of exercises and mental stimulation. They will also have a strong herding instinct as they are members of the herding group. 

Unlike Mini Ausidoodles though, you will only need to brush the Miniature American Shepherd’s coat out weekly. Miniature American Shepherds have happy-go-lucky energy that does great around children and other friendly dogs. These intelligent dogs are also pretty easy to train. 

The Shetland Sheepdog 

Shetland Sheepdogs are fairly small dogs that range between 15 and 25 pounds in weight. These dogs are also famous for their easy trainability and high intelligence paired with a strong herding drive. So, if you are looking for a small herding dog that is also very smart the Shetland may be the dog for you! 

The Shetland Sheepdog has a long, straight double coat that requires around weekly brushing, which is lower maintenance than the Mini Ausidoodle’s coat. Shetlands are also fairly high-energy dogs. However, Shetlands tend to be much more manageable energy-wise than Mini Ausidoodles are. Shetland Sheepdogs also need less daily exercise on average. 

Finding the Right Breeder 

The Mini Ausidoodle is a dog breed that has risen in popularity within the United States fairly quickly. Unfortunately, this also means that you will need to be extra diligent about finding a good breeder and avoiding irresponsible ones that care more about money than the actual health of their puppies. Here are some signs of a good Mini Ausidoodle breeder along with some red flags. 

Things That Every Great Mini Ausidoodle Breeder Will Do 

There are some things that every good Mini Ausidoodle breeder will do, and these things are done in order to benefit the health and overall temperament of their dogs. Here are some signs of a good Mini Ausidoodle breeder. 

• All of their dogs receive health and genetic testing for health issues that commonly occur in both the Miniature Australian Shepherd and Miniature Poodle breeds. The breeder should be able to show you official proof of these tests. 
• All dogs are well groomed and kept in good health. 
• All dogs are up to date on preventative care like vaccinations and deworming. 
• All dogs are housed in humane living conditions, and you are allowed to see where the dogs spend most of their time. 
• The breeder is breeding their dogs for sound temperament and health, and not just the puppies’ appearance. 
• The breeder has a socialization plan in place for their puppies. (Puppy Culture and Avidog are great examples.) 
• The breeder is knowledgeable about the Mini Ausidoodle mix and is able and willing to provide information to new puppy owners. 
• All dogs are provided with the recommended exercise and mental stimulation. 

Mini Ausidoodle breeders that follow all of the above guidelines are generally considered to be both reputable and ethical. 

Signs of an Irresponsible Mini Ausidoodle Breeder 

However, many irresponsible breeders out there may be breeding Mini Ausidoodles due to their rise in popularity and demand. Here are some signs that you should stay away from a Mini Ausidoodle breeder. 

• The breeder is not giving their dogs health or genetic testing before breeding them OR they will not show you proof of this testing.
• The breeder is breeding many different types of dogs, not just Mini Ausidoodles and the related breeds. 
• Dogs are not kept healthy, are not well groomed, or are not housed in humane conditions. 
• The breeder charges more money for more “rare” or “desirable” coat types. (This is particularly seen for variations of merle coat patterns.) 
• The breeder knowingly or unknowingly breeds two dogs together that could produce puppies with severe health defects (like breeding two blue merle dogs together) 
• Knowingly breeding a dog that is unhealthy because they will produce cute puppies. (ie. breeding a double merle dog, etc.) 
• Puppies are sent to their new homes before eight weeks old. 
• The breeder does not socialize their puppies or will not explain how they do it.  
• You are not allowed to see your puppy’s parents or where the dogs are housed. 
• Your puppy has not been kept up to date on their recommended vaccinations and deworming. 

If a breeder that you are looking into is guilty of any of the above red flags, then this is a sign that you should turn right around and not get a puppy from them. Not giving irresponsible breeders your business is the right thing to do ethically, and it will also prevent you from purchasing a sick puppy or a puppy with severe genetic issues. 

Conclusion (Is the Mini Ausidoodle Right For You?)

The Mini Ausidoodle is a great dog for active families that have plenty of time to spend exercising with their dogs. Mini Ausidoodles also tend to be a great fit for families with children thanks to their playful and upbeat personalities. While Mini Ausidoodles can live in apartments when their exercise needs are met, they tend to better in rural and suburban environments where they can run around freely.