Teacup Australian Shepherds

Teacup Australian Shepherds

Teacup Australian Shepherds have only recently begun to appear as part of the Australian Shepherd variety of dogs. Some 40 years ago they began to be bred from mating smaller Australian Shepherds together. They retain all the qualities and facets of their larger siblings only in a much tinier package. Today's family are finding them very endearing and combined with their high energy and tiny package they are becoming a popular favorite.

The teacup Australian Shepherd is considered among small dog breeds to be one of the most adorable and affectionate. Teacup Australian Shepherds are less than 10" at the shoulder and weigh on average between 4 and 9 pounds, and are occasionally mistaken as 'toy' or 'miniature' Australian Shepherds, though they are somewhat smaller and the smallest of the Australian Shepherd family. The same color markings black, red, or blue, are shared between all three types of Australian Shepherds but teacups have a visible variation. In the teacup these colors can be varied with white or tan markings. The long streak that extends from the back of the head to the snout is the only white that should be present on the face. The hair around their ears and head will be shorter in length while the hair around the neck and backs of their legs will be longer and billowy. The ears of a teacup are soft and hanging. These characteristics will be present to be viewed a true teacup Australian Shepherd.

Families with children looking for a peppy and affectionate small dog will welcome the teacup into their family. Getting them as a puppy and training them will help them feel at home with the people they will live with. Their working heritage produced in them a faithful devotion and instinctive protective desires. If they sense any danger to their smaller companions their protective valiant urge will be seen . In an attempt to corral small companions they may snip at the heels. This is a tendency from their working background. Acquiring them from a puppy and reasonably training them will help get rid of this tendency.

Teacups are really amazing intelligent and attentive animals having all the qualities and features of the larger Australian Shepherd and do execeptionally well at agility and obedience events. To help check their inherent urge to want to corral other creatures provide them with enough of exercise and instruction to keep their energy in control. Running with them, letting them get enough exercise and taking them on family excursions are some of the ways to help work off their energy. They thrive with the attention of their masters since they are very lively and giving dogs. When masters take time for them throughout the day they do their best. Since they are very social they do best when they can accompany the family and not left alone.

Most small dogs will try and take the alpha role. Teacups are no exception and need to be instructed on their position. It is important for the owner to establish the dominant leadership role or the teacup will try and take it. They will master the children if it is not set in place, and once established they become the most tender loyal companions.

Teacup Australian Shepherds make a fabulous addition to any family with their adorable loving ways. With the right training and direction these loving dogs will reward you with years of wonderful companionship.