The Australian Shepherd (North American Miniature Australian Shepherd) has a medium-length coat. It comes in blue or red merle, red or black tricolor, all with white and/or tan markings and has three distinct sizes, the Toy Australian Shepherd (Aussie), Miniature Aussie, and the Standard Aussie as described below:

Expected Adult Weight:
Toy: 7 to 20 lbs.
Miniature: 15 to 35 lbs.
Standard: 40 to 65 lbs.

Expected Adult Height at the Shoulder:
Toy: 8 to 14 inches.
Miniature: 14 to 18 inches.
Standard: 18 to 23 inches.

Expected Life Span:
Toy: 12 to 15 years.
Miniature: 12 to 15 years.
Standard: 12 to 15 years.

Australian Shepherds are easygoing, perpetual puppies that love to play. Courageous, loyal and affectionate, they are excellent children's companions that are great with active children.

A devoted friend and guardian. Very lively, agile and attentive, they are eager to please with a sixth sense about what the owner wants.

The Australian Shepherd has a medium-length water-resistant coat to keep him comfortable in rain and snow. Aussies in cold climates have a heavier undercoat than those who live in sunnier areas.

Trim nails on a regular basis to prevent painful splintering. If you can hear the nails clicking on the floor, they're too long.

Regular Grooming Frequency: Weekly Brushing and seasonal professional grooming needed.

Home Grooming Tools Required:
Metal comb and soft slicker.

The Australian Shepherd is not only an easily trainable dog, but can be a wonderful family companion if his intelligence and energy are channeled into dog sports or activities!

Another great thing about the Aussie (Nickname) is their lack of potential mouthiness.

This energetic dog needs plenty of vigorous exercise to stay in shape, or better yet, some real work to do!

The Australian Shepherd will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised!