They are Mini Australian Shepherds, Tuxedo is 10 months and Scooter is 8 months. I just love that breed, Aussies are AWESOME with kids, they learn extremely fast and they really want to please. They are very devoted to their family. They do need a lot of exercise though otherwise they get bored and can get destructive.
Mini Aussies are a smaller version of the Australian Shepherd, fully grown they will measure up to 18" and weigh around 30 - 35 lbs. I like the size because it is easier for the kids to handle them, as well as it is easier for me to take them with me, wherever I go. Other than size they have the same temperament and traits as their larger cousins.
Scooter is our energizer bunny, but he does have an off-button. Tuxedo is more of a couch potatoe compared to Scooter. I think they balance each other out. I just love to see them run at the dog park and play together. They are terrific workout companions too. I take them for runs for about 1 hour, which was the reason I got Scooter in the first place, so I am forced to go for runs
I got both of them here in AZ from a terrific breeder that I found through the North American Miniature Australian Shepherd Club and the Miniature Australian Shepherd Club . Both have great websites with lots of info.
http://www.namascusa.com/ and
http://www.mascaonline.org/
I have seen a lot of puppies and met a lot of breeders before I got Scooter (who was my first Mini Aussie) and none of them came even close to the dogs that Kathy at Boldheart breeds in regards to temperament, looks and health. You can check her website at
www.boldheartminiaussies.com. She currently has new puppies - I saw them last Saturday when I picked up Tuxedo - VERY CUTE! She has pictures on her website. I should warn you though, they are not cheap, I paid $ 1,000 for Scooter but he was well worth it. I think you get what you pay for. I refuse to buy from a pet store / puppy mill.
There also is a Mini Aussie Rescue
http://www.miniaussierescue.org/avail-dogs/marsDogs.html
Tuxedo and Scooter have been a terrific addition to our family, we can't imagine our lives without them. But they are not a breed for everyone. Let me know if you have any questions or need further information.
Have a great day!
Carola
