Are you considering getting a Mini Australian Shepherd? These pint-sized pups are a miniature version of the beloved Australian Shepherd breed. They make fantastic companions for individuals who prefer a smaller dog with big personality. In this article, HowPetCare will dig into everything you need to know about Mini Australian Shepherd growth and size.
When Do Mini Australian Shepherds Stop Growing?
Mini Australian Shepherds typically stop growing between the ages of nine and ten months. However, some may continue to grow until they reach 18 months. While they may be physically fully grown by one year old, their brains are still developing until around two or three years of age. It's during this time that they learn the characteristics of being an adult dog and mature mentally and emotionally.
Mini Australian Shepherd Weight Chart
Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for your Mini Australian Shepherd's well-being. To help you keep track of your puppy's weight, refer to the Mini Australian Shepherd weight chart. It is important to ensure that your pup stays within the healthy weight range for their age and gender. Regular visits to the vet and monitoring their growth using the chart will help you maintain their optimal weight.
At four months old, your Mini Aussie should weigh between 16 and 22 pounds. By six months, their weight should be between 22 and 30 pounds, and at 12 months, they should weigh between 35 and 40 pounds.
Mini Australian Shepherd Size Chart
Age | Weight Female | Weight Male | Height Female | Height Male |
---|---|---|---|---|
2 months | 8 – 10 lbs | 10 – 15 lbs | 6 – 7 inch | 7 – 8 inch |
3 months | 14 – 16 lbs | 16 – 18 lbs | 8 – 9 inch | 9 – 10 inch |
4 months | 16 – 18 lbs | 18 – 22 lbs | 9 – 10 inch | 10 – 11 inch |
5 months | 18 – 22 lbs | 22 – 25 lbs | 9 – 10 inch | 10 – 11 inch |
6 months | 22 – 25 lbs | 25 – 30 lbs | 10 – 11 inch | 11 – 12 inch |
8 months | 25 – 30 lbs | 30 – 36 lbs | 11 – 12 inch | 12 – 13 inch |
10 months | 30 – 35 lbs | 36 – 40 lbs | 12 -14 inch | 13 – 15 inch |
12 months | 35 – 40 lbs | 40 – 45 lbs | 14 – 16 inch | 15 – 17 inch |
24 months | 40 – 45 lbs | 45 – 55 lbs | 16 – 18 inch | 17 – 20 inch |
It's important to note that Mini Australian Shepherds have slight variations in size. Females typically stand between 12 and 16 inches tall and weigh between 20 and 40 pounds. Males, on the other hand, are slightly larger, measuring between 14 and 18 inches in height and weighing between 30 and 50 pounds.
Best Dog Food For Mini Aussie Puppies (2022)
- Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy Dog Food (Editor’s Choice)
- IAMS Puppy Dry Dog Food (Runner-Up)
Choosing the right food for your Mini Aussie puppy is crucial for their growth and development. High-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or prepared at home with the guidance of your vet, will provide them with the essential nutrients they need to thrive. Be mindful of their calorie consumption to prevent weight issues.
Mini Australian Shepherd Puppy Development Stages
Understanding the developmental stages of your Mini Australian Shepherd puppy is essential for their overall well-being. Here's a breakdown of the key stages:
Birth – 2 Weeks
During this stage, your puppy's eyes and ears are not fully developed. However, their sense of taste and touch has developed. They rely on their mother for warmth, as they cannot regulate their own body temperature. Towards the end of the second week, their legs grow stronger, and their weight doubles.
3 Weeks – 12 Weeks
This period is marked by significant growth changes. Their teeth start growing, they begin to see clearly, and they can start socializing. Weaning usually takes place around eight weeks old, and they can be ready to move to their new homes. House training can begin at around 12 weeks old.
4 Months – 9 Months
At this stage, your Mini Aussie starts looking less like a puppy and more like an adult dog. It's important to introduce them to short walks and play with toys to provide them with exercise. However, be cautious not to overexert them, as their joints and bones are still developing. This is also the ideal age for spaying or neutering your Mini Aussie and ensuring proper socialization and training.
10 Months – 18 Months
By this stage, your Mini Aussie will reach their adult weight and height, and their physical growth will stop. However, they are not mentally mature yet and will continue to mature over the next few years. This is also the time to transition them from puppy food to adult dog food.
Adult
As an adult Mini Aussie, it's important to keep them mentally stimulated and physically active. Regular walks and engaging in competitive sports can help keep them happy and healthy. Ensure they are fed a balanced diet of adult dog food to meet their nutritional needs.
How Big Do Mini Australian Shepherds Get?
The size of your Mini Australian Shepherd as an adult can be estimated by looking at their parents. The physical characteristics of the parents are usually passed down genetically. If you don't have access to the parents, a DNA test can provide insight into your pup's adult size. Additionally, you can observe the size of their paws. If the paws are unusually large, they are still growing and will eventually fill out their frame. Conversely, if the paws are proportional to the body, they have likely reached their adult size.
Male vs Female Mini Australian Shepherd Size Chart
There are some differences between male and female Mini Australian Shepherds. Here are the main distinguishing factors:
- Females are generally smaller in size compared to males.
- Females have a lower length and coat thickness than males.
Height and weight measurements for Mini Aussies differ between males and females:
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Female Mini Australian Shepherd:
- Height: 12 – 16 inches
- Weight: 20 – 40 pounds
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Male Mini Australian Shepherd:
- Height: 14 – 18 inches
- Weight: 30 – 50 pounds
You can measure your Mini Australian Shepherd's height at home using a tape measure. Make sure they are standing straight on a flat surface. Locate their withers, which is between the shoulder blades and the highest point. Place the end of the tape measure on the floor and extend it to the withers. This will give you their height measurement.
Will Neutering/Spaying My Mini Australian Shepherd Affect His Growth?
Spaying or neutering your Mini Australian Shepherd involves removing their reproductive organs surgically. Spaying is the removal of ovaries in females, while neutering involves removing testicles in males. These procedures should be done at the right time to prevent potential growth issues, as growth hormones are linked to reproductive hormones.
Spaying a female Mini Aussie should ideally be done before her first heat, while neutering a male Mini Aussie is typically done when they reach puberty. The recommended age range for spaying or neutering is between four and nine months. However, it's important to consult with your vet to determine the best timing for these procedures based on your dog's individual needs.
Australian Shepherd vs Mini Australian Shepherd Size
Mini Australian Shepherds are smaller than standard Australian Shepherds. Here's a comparison of their sizes:
Mini Australian Shepherd:
- Female Height: 12 – 16 inches
- Female Weight: 20 – 40 pounds
- Male Height: 14 – 18 inches
- Male Weight: 30 – 50 pounds
Standard Australian Shepherd:
- Female Height: 18 – 21 inches
- Female Weight: 40 – 55 pounds
- Male Height: 20 – 23 inches
- Male Weight: 50 – 65 pounds
Factors That Affect Mini Australian Shepherd Growth
Several factors can influence the growth of a Mini Australian Shepherd:
Genetics & Gender
Genetics play a significant role in determining the size of a dog, including Mini Australian Shepherds. If the parents of your puppy are larger than average, there is a higher chance that your puppy will also be bigger. Similarly, if the parents have a smaller body frame, your puppy will likely be smaller. Gender also influences size, with males generally being slightly larger and taller than females.
Nutrition
Feeding your Mini Australian Shepherd a balanced and complete diet is crucial for their growth and overall health. Whether you choose commercially manufactured food or prepare meals at home, ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients. Consult with your vet to ensure their calorie intake aligns with their needs. Avoid feeding them table scraps and be aware of which human foods are safe for dogs.
Physical Activity & Health
Mini Australian Shepherds are active and athletic dogs. They require a moderate amount of physical activity to keep them healthy and stimulated. Regular exercise, such as walks and engaging in canine sports like agility and obedience, will help maintain their well-being. Responsible breeders test their stock for any potential health conditions, so regular visits to the vet are essential to monitor your Mini Aussie's health.
How Much to Feed a Growing Mini Australian Shepherd Puppy?
The amount of food you should feed your growing Mini Australian Shepherd puppy depends on factors such as activity level, size, age, and the type of food you're providing. Refer to a Mini Australian Shepherd feeding chart to determine the appropriate portion sizes for your pup. Additionally, calculating their resting energy requirement (RER) can help you find their specific caloric needs.
When puppies are under four months old, they require three times their RER. Between five and 12 months, they need twice their RER. Adjust the amount as they grow older since their energy levels decrease.
What Are the Most Common Conditions to Be Aware of In Growing Mini Australian Puppies?
It's important to be aware of potential health conditions that can affect growing Mini Australian Shepherds. Here are some common issues:
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Eye Disorders: Mini Aussies are prone to eye problems such as iris colobomas, juvenile cataracts, and persistent pupillary membrane. Regular eye check-ups with a veterinarian are crucial to catch and address these issues.
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Orthopedic Disorders: Hip dysplasia and luxating patella are common orthopedic issues in Mini Aussies. These conditions affect the joints and may cause pain and discomfort. Regular vet visits and proper exercise can help manage these conditions.
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Allergies: Mini Australian Shepherds can develop allergies, including dry skin, chronic flea allergies, and sensitivity to certain medications. These allergies may cause various symptoms, so it's important to seek veterinary care for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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Other Health Conditions: Mini Aussies may also be susceptible to epilepsy, cancer, multiple drug sensitivity, and autoimmune diseases. Regular check-ups with a vet can help detect and manage these conditions.
Final Words
Ensuring your Mini Australian Shepherd maintains a healthy weight is vital for their overall well-being. With a balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper care, they will thrive as loving companions. If you notice any abnormal weight changes in your dog, consult with a vet to address any underlying health concerns. Mini Aussies bring joy to families and make excellent playmates for other pets and children. Keep their growth and size in mind as you provide them with the care they deserve.
Keys to Take Away:
- Mini Australian Shepherds stop growing between nine and ten months, although some may continue growing until 18 months.
- Monitor your Mini Aussie's weight using the weight chart to ensure they stay within the healthy range.
- Mini Aussies have different sizes based on gender.
- Genetics, nutrition, physical activity, and health play significant roles in Mini Australian Shepherd growth.
- Regular vet visits and proper care are crucial for maintaining a healthy weight.
- Be aware of common health conditions such as eye disorders, orthopedic issues, allergies, and other health conditions.
- Consult with a vet to determine the appropriate diet and feeding schedule for your Mini Aussie.
- Provide regular exercise and mental stimulation for your Mini Australian Shepherd's overall well-being.
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