aussie v.s mini aussie

[BamaBball3697]

hello i am 5'4 and 121 lbs i want the dog to sleep in the bed with me and i have a full size bed umm and i am 14 and i have kidney problems i am on dialysis right now i am gone 3 days a week monday wensday and friday from 8:00 am to 7:00 p.m is a aussie the dog for me should i get a mini or a regular size aussie i love the way they look and when i was in the hospital they had a aussie there for pet therapy and i fell in love with it umm i want a dog that will sit with me when i go fishing and will play frizzbee and will be a good dog for pet therapy and be good to take to the hospital for ppl to see and pet is a aussie the dog for me how much does a aussie usually cost

[Pharlane]

(BamaBball3697
ferret for sale in tuscaloosa alabama

hello i am 14 and i got a ferret for sale i cant take care of it i have kidney problems and i am on dialysis 3 days a week [monday,wensday,friday]

Why did you email me yesterday about if I had any pups for sale.If you can't take care of a ferret you will not beable to take care of any dog.Aussie needs a lot of outside time or walks.
If you read our website it has alot of good info on aussie.But I would not sell you any of mine plue we don't ship.

[PAWZnHOOVES]

australian shepherds are herding dogs, meaning that they are bred to work all day herding cattle, sheep, etc. therefore, they have high energy. altho i have seen a lot that are more laid back, an australian shepherd would not be the dog for you. they require high maintenance with walks, grooming because of their thick long coat, and cannot be left home alone then simply sit in bed with you all day. and...i agree with pharlane...if u can't take care of a ferret, how are you going to take care of a dog?? i think you should maybe get a cat...it will cuddle with you and it doesn't have to be taken outside to relieve itself and can pretty much entertain itself during the day. i don't know what kind of dog can stay in your environment, but it defiinitely won't be a australian shepherd. try a smaller breed (except for terriers which have high energy). good luck!

[Pharlane]

australian shepherds are herding dogs, meaning that they are bred to work all day herding cattle, sheep, etc. therefore, they have high energy. altho i have seen a lot that are more laid back, an australian shepherd would not be the dog for you. they require high maintenance with walks, grooming because of their thick long coat, and cannot be left home alone then simply sit in bed with you all day. and...i agree with pharlane...if u can't take care of a ferret, how are you going to take care of a dog?? i think you should maybe get a cat...it will cuddle with you and it doesn't have to be taken outside to relieve itself and can pretty much entertain itself during the day. i don't know what kind of dog can stay in your environment, but it defiinitely won't be a australian shepherd. try a smaller breed (except for terriers which have high energy). good luck!
Thanks for backing me up there she also want's a horse....

[Kayl]

I've never heard of a mini Aussie...

*runs thru list of Aussie breeds*

Aussie Shepherd...Aussie Cattle Dog...Aussie Terrier...

Nope, don't remember a mini-Aussie.

[Pharlane]

I've never heard of a mini Aussie...

*runs thru list of Aussie breeds*

Aussie Shepherd...Aussie Cattle Dog...Aussie Terrier...

Nope, don't remember a mini-Aussie.
There are mins http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/miniatureaustralianshepherd.htm

[Pippin]

One of my friends recently got 2 mini aussies, they are sooo adorable. But they come with a high price tag also ;) .

[Clarzoo]

Mini Aussie's are one of the many breeds that have come from new trend of making breeds smaller and charging more. With that unfortunately comes many health problems.

I have seen a few mini-aussies, and they were cute- but just because they are smaller does not mean they have any less energy than a standard Australian Shepherd.

It looks as if you aren't quite sure what type of pet to get. I would recommend doing a lot more research, and since you are only 14- your parents will need to support what ever choice you make 100%.

If you are stuck on getting a dog- go adopt one from the shelter. That way you can get a slightly older dog and completely skip the challenges of having a young puppy.

[Me007gold]

yes with you being so young, and not at the house too often ide recomend not getting an aussie. i have(had moved and they still live with my parents) two of them. they are great dogs, and very affectionate but they need a LOT of exersise. you have to remember they were bred to be hurding dogs.

[Spatx]

i want a dog that will sit with me when i go fishing and will play frizzbee and will be a good dog for pet therapy and be good to take to the hospital for ppl to see

Based on how my Aussie is.. he does none of the above!

1) He won't sit still. He has far too much energy. If I were to bring him fishing he would throw sticks at me to play with him.. and bark and bark until I did.

2) He plays frisbee, but doesn't find it that much fun. He prefers to play with tennis balls - So I got him into flyball. For exercise I have to walk him for 2 hours, throw the ball until my arm drops, and then practice agility in the backyard later in the day.

3) Many Aussie's are very reserved. My aussie is very wary of strangers. He would freak out if he was to be a therapy dog. I know a few other aussies as well.. none of them would do well as therapy dogs because they are too energetic, and too wary of strangers.

In Conclusion - Do not get an aussie just because you like the way they look. Just because you've met one that makes a good therapy dog, doesn't mean they all do. I would look into another breed with less energy requirements because you are away from the house a lot. I take my aussie out once a day for at least an hour, we have flyball and agility practice once a week, plus agility practice in the backyard. We also are never away from home for more then about 2 hours. Usually in a week, our aussie is never home alone.

[Pharlane]

Based on how my Aussie is.. he does none of the above!

1) He won't sit still. He has far too much energy. If I were to bring him fishing he would throw sticks at me to play with him.. and bark and bark until I did.

2) He plays frisbee, but doesn't find it that much fun. He prefers to play with tennis balls - So I got him into flyball. For exercise I have to walk him for 2 hours, throw the ball until my arm drops, and then practice agility in the backyard later in the day.

3) Many Aussie's are very reserved. My aussie is very wary of strangers. He would freak out if he was to be a therapy dog. I know a few other aussies as well.. none of them would do well as therapy dogs because they are too energetic, and too wary of strangers.

In Conclusion - Do not get an aussie just because you like the way they look. Just because you've met one that makes a good therapy dog, doesn't mean they all do. I would look into another breed with less energy requirements because you are away from the house a lot. I take my aussie out once a day for at least an hour, we have flyball and agility practice once a week, plus agility practice in the backyard. We also are never away from home for more then about 2 hours. Usually in a week, our aussie is never home alone.
Your dog sound like all of my aussies

[Pharlane]

I've never heard of a mini Aussie...

*runs thru list of Aussie breeds*

Aussie Shepherd...Aussie Cattle Dog...Aussie Terrier...

Nope, don't remember a mini-Aussie.
Standard aussies males are 20 to 23 inches
females are 18 to 21 inches
Minis male are 14 to 18 inches
female or 14 inches up to but not including 18 inches

[Spatx]

Your dog sound like all of my aussies

Hehe, good to know that he's normal then! Lol. :D

[Pharlane]

Hehe, good to know that he's normal then! Lol. :D
I just went out side with my 9 aussies to play.They all thought it was fun to go jump in the pound it's is raining here in washington state..
aussie do what they want to do.

[Kayl]

Aussie Shepherds ain't the only ones *gives Aussie Cattle Dog a lovingly exasperated look* Muddy paws on my new clothes again?

[Pharlane]

Aussie Shepherds ain't the only ones *gives Aussie Cattle Dog a lovingly exasperated look* Muddy paws on my new clothes again?
LOL. I had a cattle dog about 5 years ago and a B/C
I love them aussie shepherds.Once you get one you need 8 more LOL

[Shahoa]

I had a ACD cross (mostly ACD) but she recently had cancer and had to be put down): She always wanted to be out side. Someday I may get another but right now I have a pretty full house:)

[geannmarie]

While I don't know if a Australian Shepherd is the best choice for your situation because of their energy level, I thought I could clear up a few points on Miniature, Standard, and Toy (yes toy) Aussies.

I own what is considered a toy aussie. Riley is 5 months and 6lbs now and I adore him.

Standard Aussies are 18 inches or more
Miniature Aussies are 14-18 inches
Toy Aussies are 10-14 inches

If you have your heart set on an aussie (and I can understand why) then I would suggest a toy. Riley will grow to be around 12 inches and 12lbs. This is similar in size to many other toy dogs.

Our toy aussie is high energy like a standard aussie and maintains the "herding" instinct but because of his size he is able to be a well adapted apartment dog. He loves to go on long walks and play frisbee just as much as he loves to cuddle in my lap for hours and watch TV. He will lay in my arms like a baby and sleep on my pillow at night (all night). He also loves people and is very well socialized. He will run up to strangers to be petted and "ooohed and ahhed" over.

We have "litter box" trained Riley and he goes only indoors. With a toy aussie, if you live in a decent sized house or even apartment they can get a lot of the exercise they need running around it. But they still need to get outside everyday for a little walk or fetch.

All puppies no matter the breed require a huge commitment. But if you have the time and energy to make sure you train and socialize your puppy while they are young they can make wonderful companions and therapy dogs.

Aussies do have traits that you have to consider. Riley likes to nip a little (as most puppies do) and when he is excited will bounce around and jump on you. If he isn't given attention or toys to play with his energy level will be really high. We control this by giving him plenty toys and playing games with him. We even play fetch in our apartment because his is so small.

Here are some links to breeders who have miniature and toy aussies for sale. On a lot of these links you can find out more about the breed and by of course calling the breeders.

And of course Toy Aussies can be very expensive. Hope this helps...

http://www.puppyshop.com/caninebreeds/ads/miniaustralian.htm

[Soleil]

I don't think that this person is ready for ANY animal. As Pharlane stated earlier, the kid is trying to find a new home for his ferret- and now he wants a DOG?! Here's a dog that I think that this child can handle (and it will sleep for long periods of time on the bed!!)

Adopt Fluffy!! (http://www.petfinder.com/pet.cgi?action=2&pet=2690257)

S.

[Pharlane]

I don't think that this person is ready for ANY animal. As Pharlane stated earlier, the kid is trying to find a new home for his ferret- and now he wants a DOG?! Here's a dog that I think that this child can handle (and it will sleep for long periods of time on the bed!!)

Adopt Fluffy!! (http://www.petfinder.com/pet.cgi?action=2&pet=2690257)

S.
LOL. That's a good one.
Like I said in a past post she also want a horse if she can't give the ferret time I don't know why she thinks a horse would much easer to take care of.We have 4 horses I ride 3 of them and it's hard work.

[geannmarie]

I don't think that this person is ready for ANY animal. As Pharlane stated earlier, the kid is trying to find a new home for his ferret- and now he wants a DOG?! Here's a dog that I think that this child can handle (and it will sleep for long periods of time on the bed!!)

Oh, I apologize then. I was apparently under the false impression that these forums were a place where people could ask questions, hear about other people personal experiences, and learn more about what they were interested in. My mistake. I wasn't aware this was the place to hand out judgement and criticism. That you had a personal insight into this child's "pet taking" abilities I wasn't privy to. :headshake

He can't take care of his pet ferret. GASP :eek: Your absolutely right. That is a blinking neon sign that this young person shouldn't even begin to consider owning a dog. What normal child would? I mean its not every day that a child recieves a small pet as a gift (ferret, iguana, hamster) that turns out not to be exactly what they want. Please note my saracasm. Does this mean they are irresponsible pet owners. Aboslutely NOT. Will this ferret find a good home with another child. I would be willing to bet it will.

Thanks for backing me up there she also want's a horse..

Once again. My shock. :eek: What responsible pet owner would be interested in a horse AND dog, after deciding a ferret wasn't for them. I remember being 14 and wanting a whole zoo. Does this mean I got it. No. But if the internet would have been as popular then as it is now, you can be sure I would have been on forums asking questions. Why. Because I was interested in animals and had a big heart. Even after I had sold my pet iguana that wasn't all I had hoped for.

If you adults are foolish enough to think a 14 year old has the resources to go out and purchase dogs and horses without his parents knowledge then I am sorry. But I would at least hope you would have enough tact not to act like "high and mighty" pet owners who can judge who is and is not capable of loving and caring for an animal.

Besides, what better way for a child to learn responsibilty that by owning pets? Or are you against that too. Teaching responsibility? As a teacher I have learned to value and respect children and their ideas and questions. They learn how to become responsible adults by watching us. Keep that in mind. :idea1:

Why did you email me yesterday about if I had any pups for sale.If you can't take care of a ferret you will not beable to take care of any dog.Aussie needs a lot of outside time or walks.
If you read our website it has alot of good info on aussie.But I would not sell you any of mine plue we don't ship.

And Pharlane. Why would you take private information and post it on a public forum. The fact that BamaBball3697 emailed you and you decided that he wasn't fit to own one of your dogs is not anyone elses business but you and BamaBball3697. Or were you trying to publically embarass this child? And if that was the case, you are the type of breeder I would never buy from. Your "holier than thou" attitude is not conducive to encouraging responsible pet ownership.

I hope in the future respect is shown to everyone. Especially children. Children who have shown enough responsibility to get onto a pet forum and ask questions before they buy.

[Kayl]

He asked questions. He got answers. The reason
he gave for not being able to keep the ferret was the dialysis. People pointed out that if you can't take care of a ferret because of that, you won't be able to take care of a dog either. He didn't say anything about the ferret being a gift. Dogs take a lot more work. Had he merely asked questions about what they were like and how it was to take care of them that would be one thing. He didn't. He pointed out that he wanted one. People gave him their opinions. It doesn't mean we think he's an irresponsible pet owner, it just means the opinion is that he's not ready for a dog right now. He still got the information about the breed, and got it pointed out that what he wanted to do with the dog was incompatible with what an Aussie is like. He also pointed out that he met an Aussie in a therapy dog type situation, which means that he has the wrong idea of what Aussies are like.

If you adults are foolish enough to think a 14 year old has the resources to go out and purchase dogs and horses without his parents knowledge then I am sorry. But I would at least hope you would have enough tact not to act like "high and mighty" pet owners who can judge who is and is not capable of loving and caring for an animal.

Besides, what better way for a child to learn responsibilty that by owning pets? Or are you against that too. Teaching responsibility? As a teacher I have learned to value and respect children and their ideas and questions. They learn how to become responsible adults by watching us. Keep that in mind.

No one was high and mighty. If you come onto a forum, you get opinions, even ones you don't like. And if you're a teacher, then you should know full well that there are plenty of parents out there who indulge their children by getting them the animal they ask for without doing any research themselves.

I'm all for children having pets. I had my first gerbil when I was 8, and I was the one that took care of it and all the pets that came after it. As a daycare worker/ECEC teacher and an aunt, I respect and value children and their opinions and questions as much as you do. I still offer my opinion based on the knowledge I'm given. I also don't consider 14 a child. I consider 14 a teenager who can logically go through the points given in the thread and decide if they're valid for their lifestyle. I've got a niece the same age who gets mad when called a child. But then I'm only 19, 20 in a month, and maybe I'm not mature enough to judge.

You may or may not have noticed, depending on how long you lurked before joining, that several of the people who responded to this thread either work/volunteer in a shelter or breed dogs. I know Soleil works at a shelter, I have volunteered at shelters, Pharlane breeds. We see what happens when a kid decides he wants a dog, doesn't realize how much work it takes, and the parents take it away. We're looking out for the dog as well. We feel very strongly about it. I had a parent who, when she decided she got tired of dealing with a certain aspect of the dog, got rid of it. It does happen, even with the most loving and otherwise responsible parents and it's the dog who suffers.

People are on this forum because they love animals. That means they'll give out all the information wanted, but they also give out opinions based on life experiences and information given. If the kid had been 10 or 11, it would have been one thing. He's not. He's in highschool. He's old enough to get the opinons offered. Some of it wasn't particularly tactful, but kids are a lot less tactful than that.

I agree with whoever said it--a cat would be a better pet for the situation right now. Either that or an older dog from a calmer breed, like one of the mastiff breeds. Hey, if my collie and my poodle, and my ACD can fit on my bed, so can a mastiff.

There was no need to get sarcastic and, IMO, no need to jump to the kid's defense. It's been my experience that teenagers are perfectly capable of mounting their own defense, and rather good ones at that.

Well, that's my opinion, just like you gave yours. Take it or leave it and have a nice Thanksgiving.

[Shahoa]

I think their point was that if she can't take proper care of her ferret because of her kidney problems and dialisis, she couldn't care for a dog. They weren't trying to put her down, or say she shouldn't own pets ever.

[Kayl]

I think that's what I said...that's what I tried to say at least.

[Shahoa]

oh sorry! I started writing my post before i saw that you had posted! oh well maybe it will help get the point across.

[geannmarie]

As shown by the quotes I replied to, my response was not to everyone who posted on the thread but the few who said things I felt were innapropriate. Such as stating that this person was not ready for "any" pet, or asking why they had even emailed them about a dog when and that she would never sell one to them.

There were people who replied to the thread who gave their information about an Aussie and if they felt an Aussie was appropriate for the child's situation in a respectful way. I am aslo aware that some people who posted are breeders and such. I have looked (or lurked if you prefer) at various threads on here before I replied. Also, not all children grow up at the same rate. Many are truly still children no matter their age. I know this because I taught 12-14 years olds.

[geannmarie]

Also, if you had read some of the other threads he had mentioned having to get rid of the ferret because his mother disliked the smell not just because of dialysis. And most parents don't indulge their children in pets that cost $500+ up front.

[Pharlane]

And Pharlane. Why would you take private information and post it on a public forum. The fact that BamaBball3697 emailed you and you decided that he wasn't fit to own one of your dogs is not anyone elses business but you and BamaBball3697. Or were you trying to publically embarass this child? And if that was the case, you are the type of breeder I would never buy from. Your "holier than thou" attitude is not conducive to encouraging responsible pet ownership.
.
Why would I do that??? Let's think about this.So othere people wont by in to this..Because I love my breed..Maybe because she can't take care of a nother animal so why would I SELL her one of my Pup?? Because I wanted to.I think that's it.I could go on but why..

[Pharlane]

(QuoteOriginally Posted by geannmarie.you are the type of breeder I would never buy from. Your "holier than thou" attitude is not conducive to encouraging responsible pet ownership.
I have NEVER sold any of my pups to a 14 YEAR old girl.
I don't sell my pups to just anyone.I like to meet the person before you even look at my pups because if I don't like you,you are not leaving my place with one of my pups..

[Pharlane]

Why I am I the bad person here???Is it because I will not sell her a pup?..From our website..One of the most frequent reasons Aussie are turned over to Rescue Groups, is because their owners didn't realize how much energy the breed has, and weren't willing to channel that energy through training. We don't recommend them as an apartment dog. Aussie are also quite demanding of their owners' time and attention and want to be constantly with them. Following them from room to room in the house, and going along in the car or truck on errands. They can be highly territorial and protective of their masters' possessions, which can cause serious difficulties unless controlled with proper training.The ASCA Breed Standard states, “reserved with strangers but does not exhibit shyness“. “primarily a working dog of strong herding and guardian instincts.”

[geannmarie]

It was no one else's business if you felt this person was not fit for one of your dogs. That is a private matter. I would be embarrassed if a breeder announced on a forum that I had emailed them about a dog and that they would not sell one to me. Common courtesy is alway called for.

[Pharlane]

It was no one else's business if you felt this person was not fit for one of your dogs. That is a private matter. I would be embarrassed if a breeder announced on a forum that I had emailed them about a dog and that they would not sell one to me. Common courtesy is alway called for.
Why so she can email othere breeders?It's just like I would not sell any of my horses,cat,geese,ducks,chickens.I am the bad person because I am telling othere breeders not to sell to her.Mybe I shound not care where my pups are going.Well sorry but I do.

[Soleil]

[QUOTE=geannmarie]Oh, I apologize then. I was apparently under the false impression that these forums were a place where people could ask questions, hear about other people personal experiences, and learn more about what they were interested in.

Apology accepted. Forums are a great place to ask questions, and also a great place to get HONEST (and, yes, sometimes unwanted) answers. We have not always agreed on things (Right, Pharlane :D ) but we do respect eachother for the knowledge and insights that are shared.

He can't take care of his pet ferret. GASP :eek: Your absolutely right. That is a blinking neon sign that this young person shouldn't even begin to consider owning a dog.

I'm glad we agree (sarcasm ignored). If the mother couldn't handle the smell of a ferret- what about a dog?! Or is it to stay outside?! Having a dog is a much bigger commitment than a ferret (and if you want my credentials- I have been the guardian of both) If myself, or my child for that matter, couldn't handle the care of a ferret then I would never entertain the guardianship of a dog!

But I would at least hope you would have enough tact not to act like "high and mighty" pet owners who can judge who is and is not capable of loving and caring for an animal.

And yet 'we' are being judged by you... hhmmm. "Pot? Kettle. Kettle? Pot." :rolleyes: I deal daily with the cast off animals of people that were unable/unwilling to deal with problems that came up with thier animals. It's time for someone to say, ENOUGH! Pet ownership is not a right! If you choose a pet- you should be prepared for everything!

Besides, what better way for a child to learn responsibilty that by owning pets? Or are you against that too. Teaching responsibility?

I'm all for teaching children responsibility. How else do they grow into the fine young adults that we want them to be?! My concern here is that- IMHO- that a dog should not be a TOOL used to TEACH RESPONSIBILITY. One should PROVE responsibility BEFORE becoming guardian of a dog (or ferret, or horse) I think that BamaBall is doing the MATURE thing by asking opinions- but if old enough to ask- she should be able to handle honest opinions.
Animals are not a LOWER life form that you can buy and toss because it proves too much for you... do research first and seriously think about it.

As for your reaction to my post about 'Fluffy'?! It was a funny, 'HA HA' moment that I wanted to share- as you have shared your opinions openly on this thread. Some people are better off having a 'stuffie' as a pet...
As a teacher I have learned to value and respect children and their ideas and questions. They learn how to become responsible adults by watching us. Keep that in mind. :idea1:

And if that was the case, you are the type of breeder I would never buy from. Your "holier than thou" attitude is not conducive to encouraging responsible pet ownership.

Actually it IS conducive to encouraging responsible pet ownership. If you're turned down by a breeder/shelter/rescue you're generally given a reason. You can either take that reason and whine about how unfair it is, or you can use that reason to change. If you're turned down because the dog won't fit your lifestyle- LOOK FOR A DIFFERENT TYPE OF DOG.

Oh- by the way- welcome to Petshub. You will find that we are a lovely bunch, and all enjoy a good disagreement once in a while!! :D (no sarcasm intended)

S.

[Shahoa]

What happens if her mom decides that the dog smells too much, or goes to the bathroom inside too much(it is a puppy)? then off it goes, just like the ferret. People returned a dobe pup to me the second day they had it because it peed under the table, and on the rug! It was 7 weeks old!(this was a long time ago, one of my first breedings) I got alot stricter about who I sold pups to and I screened alot more rigorously too, after that. These people clearly weren't fit for a pup. They knew nothing.

[Pharlane]

[QUOTE]

Apology accepted. Forums are a great place to ask questions, and also a great place to get HONEST (and, yes, sometimes unwanted) answers. We have not always agreed on things (Right, Pharlane :D ) but we do respect eachother for the knowledge and insights that are shared.

S.
you are right we didn't agree but we do respect each athere.
I thought the Fluff thing was cute :)

[Kayl]

I think she was upset because you replied to an email in a public post...

I doubt you're the bad guy. I'm sure Soleil and now I, and anyone else who pointed out that maybe now wasn't the best time for him to get a dog equally share bad guyness.

[BamaBball3697]

hello i am the famous yet infoumous bamabball let me clear some things up. first off i am not a girl i am a boy, a young 14 year old boy ,and yes i do have kidney problems, and yes i have had many surgeries, i was born with kidney problems .i have been going to the doctor since i was 2 months old. i had a kidney transplant may 11th 2001. it rejected 2 years later december 24th 2002. i have been on dialysis ever since december 24. this year will be 2 years since i started dialysis. ok now we have that out of the way, i asked about horses cause my step mom has horses, and i sold my ferret to my step mom, her kids do homeschool so i am sure it is a good home. to make all of you breeders and aussie owners out there happy. i am going to do the grown up thing and get a aussie :D my mom said i could isnt that great, lol i am just kidding my mom said i could get 1 when i turn 16 .maybe by then i will have a transplant and stuff and have more time for a dog so i apolagize for all the high blood presures out there from all the comtion thanks for all the help you guys and gals have gave me i thought the fluffie dog was cute but i already have 4 of those and dont have room for a 5th 1 but i am sure fluffie will go to a great home umm and there is a lady that works at the bank that raises aussies and she said when it is the time she will help me with research and stuff
thanks alot

sincerely
cory

[Kayl]

Hey. I was wondering if you'd been scared off ^_^

It's good you found someone to help you out with the research, and better that you're willing to do it. I can't speak for anyone else, but I will ask that you don't take anything I said personally against you--we run into too many young people who are "Yay! I want a dog! A big fluffy dog to play with and have fun with, etc, ad naseum" and wind up with "I got bored so he went to a shelter". But it sounds like you've put some thought into this, so good fer you.