
They typically weigh between 7-15 pounds and stand 6-10 inches tall, making them a great companion for apartment dwellers or those with small living spaces. Their small size belies their bold and adventurous nature.
Their coat can vary in color and texture, but often features a mix of the Australian Shepherd's merle pattern and the Yorkshire Terrier's silky, fine coat. Regular grooming is essential to prevent matting and tangling.
Their intelligence and trainability make them a popular choice for first-time dog owners, but they do require consistent training and socialization to prevent behavioral issues.
Breed Information
The Mini Yorkshire Aussie is a crossbreed between a Miniature Australian Shepherd and a Yorkshire Terrier. This unique combination of breeds makes for a one-of-a-kind companion.
They inherit the intelligence and energy of the Miniature Australian Shepherd, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Their small size and adaptable nature make them a great fit for city living or apartments.
Their small size also means they require less food and exercise compared to their larger counterparts, but they still need regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their fur.
For your interest: Mini Aussie Full Size
Hybrid Breed
The Miniature American Shepherd + Yorkshire Terrier is a popular hybrid breed. This crossbreed combines the intelligence and energy of the Miniature American Shepherd with the spunky and affectionate nature of the Yorkshire Terrier.
These dogs are often referred to as Mini Yorkshire Aussies, and they typically inherit the small stature of the Yorkshire Terrier. They usually weigh between 7-15 pounds and stand about 10-14 inches tall at the shoulder.
Their coat can vary in texture and length, but it's often a combination of the Miniature American Shepherd's medium-length coat and the Yorkshire Terrier's silky, fine coat. Regular grooming is necessary to prevent matting and tangling.
Mini Yorkshire Aussies are highly intelligent and trainable, making them a great choice for first-time dog owners or experienced handlers. With proper socialization and training, they can thrive in a variety of living situations.
History
The Mini Yorkshire Aussie's history is a fascinating tale of two breeds coming together to create a charming and affectionate companion.

The Miniature Australian Shepherd, also known as the Mini Aussie, hails from the United States, specifically developed in the late 1960s through selective breeding of smaller Australian Shepherds.
This breed was created to produce a more compact version of the original Australian Shepherd, resulting in a smaller but still energetic and intelligent dog.
The Yorkshire Terrier, on the other hand, originates from England in the 19th century, bred to catch rats in Yorkshire's textile mills.
They quickly gained popularity as a companion dog due to their charming looks and lively personality, making them a beloved breed among many dog lovers.
While the Mini Yorkshire Aussie may not have the same extensive lineage as purebred dogs, their unique blend of traits has captured the hearts of many dog enthusiasts.
Behavior and Temperament
The Mini Aussie Yorkie mix is an active and intelligent breed that thrives on attention and interaction with their family. They are known for their playful and affectionate nature, making them loyal companions.

These dogs are highly trainable and eager to please, which means they respond well to positive reinforcement and consistent training. Early socialization and proper training are crucial to ensure they grow up to be well-rounded and well-behaved dogs.
The Mini Yorkshire Aussie is a friendly and sociable breed, but they can be wary of strangers at first. With proper socialization, they become confident and happy companions.
Here's an interesting read: How to Train Mini Aussie
Temperament/Personality
The Mini Yorkshire Aussie is a wonderful companion, known for their playful and affectionate nature, making them loyal and loving friends to their family.
They are highly trainable and eager to please, which is why they thrive on structure and clear communication. Early socialization and proper training are crucial to ensure they grow up to be well-rounded and well-behaved dogs.
These intelligent dogs are not your average lap dog, they are high energy and have a strong work drive, happiest when they have engaging activities to do.
Their alert senses and loud bark make them excellent watchdogs, and they can be protective of their family, which makes them good watchdogs.
While they may be wary of strangers at first, they are friendly and affectionate when you get to know them, which makes them great for families with children and individuals living in apartments.
As an active dog, the Mini Yorkshire Aussie needs regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
They get along well with other pets and children, but their curiosity and natural herding instincts may lead them to chase smaller pets, so early socialization is key.
Their intelligence and adaptability make them well-suited for apartment living, as long as their basic exercise needs are met and they are not left alone too much.
Overall, the Mini Yorkshire Aussie is a perfect blend of intelligence, loyalty, and affection, making them a wonderful addition to any family.
Activity Levels

Mini Yorkshire Aussies are highly active and energetic, requiring daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. They need at least a daily walk or playtime in the backyard to meet their activity needs.
Their moderate energy level means they're perfect for apartment living, but they still need regular walks outside due to their playful nature. This small size belies a big personality, so be prepared to keep them entertained and engaged.
Providing interactive toys, puzzle games, and training sessions can help keep them mentally stimulated and prevent boredom. This is especially important since they can develop separation anxiety when left alone for too long.
To keep them safe from harsh weather conditions, consider using dog sweaters in winter or cooling pads or vests in summer. With proper care and attention, your Mini Yorkshire Aussie will thrive and become a beloved member of your family.
Physical Characteristics
The Mini Aussie Yorkie mix is a compact dog, typically weighing between 6 to 12 pounds.
Their height is relatively small, ranging from 9 to 14 inches tall.
Their coat can vary in length, often being medium to long, and is soft and silky to the touch.
Appearance
The Mini Yorkshire Aussie is a true head-turner, and it's easy to see why. Their compact size makes them a perfect companion for city living or apartment dwelling.
They typically weigh between 6 to 12 pounds, which is quite light, making them easy to handle and care for.
Their ears can be semi or fully flopped, depending on the type of coat they sport – short in fur length and dense wiry to give them an expressive appearance.
Their coat can vary depending on the genetics inherited from their parents, but it often features a combination of the Yorkshire Terrier's silky, long hair and the Miniature Australian Shepherd's medium-length, wavy fur.
Common coat colors include black and tan, blue and tan, or sable and white. Their dark and expressive eyes complement their alert and intelligent facial expression.
Their broad heads have squarish tapered muzzles that house a set of scissor-like teeth, adding to their adorable and unique appearance.
For more insights, see: Rat Terrier Chihuahua Mix Black and Tan
Coat

The coat of a Mini Yorkshire Aussie is quite variable, but it's typically medium to long in length and soft to the touch.
They can inherit a wavy or curly coat from the Miniature Australian Shepherd side, or a straight and glossy coat from the Yorkshire Terrier side.
Coat colors can range from solid black, brown, or blue, to combinations of these colors with tan or white markings.
Health and Well-being
The Mini Aussie Yorkie mix is a generally healthy breed, but like any dog, they can be prone to certain health issues. Regular dental care, such as brushing their teeth and providing appropriate chew toys, can help maintain their oral health.
Their small size means they usually live quite a long time, with an average life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. However, they may be predisposed to some health problems typical of their parent breeds, such as hip dysplasia or eye problems.
Recommended read: Mini Aussie Health Problems
To ensure your Mini Aussie Yorkie mix remains healthy, regular vet visits are necessary. Keep an eye out for any signs of eye or ear infections, and provide a balanced diet and plenty of exercise.
Here are some potential health concerns to be aware of:
- Collie eye anomaly
- Deafness
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Luxating patellas
- Dental problems
- Hypoglycemia
- Legg-Perthes disease
- Liver shunt
- Hip dysplasia
Health
The Mini Yorkshire Aussie is a generally healthy breed, but as with any dog, regular care and attention are crucial to maintaining their overall health. They can live up to 12-15 years with proper care.
Their smaller size means they're prone to dental issues, so regular brushing and dental checks are a must. This can help prevent more serious problems down the line.
Both parent breeds, the Yorkshire Terrier and Australian Shepherd, can be prone to eye and ear infections, so it's essential to keep an eye out for any signs of illness. Regular veterinary check-ups can help catch any issues early on.
Here are some potential health concerns to be aware of:
Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and plenty of exercise are essential for keeping your Mini Yorkshire Aussie in top shape.
Nutrition

Proper nutrition is crucial for the overall health and well-being of your Mini Yorkshire Aussie. Providing them with a balanced and nutritious diet will ensure they have the energy they need to thrive.
Opt for high-quality dog food brands that list real meat as the first ingredient. Avoid foods with fillers or artificial additives, as these can be detrimental to your dog's health.
Regular, small meals can help prevent digestive issues, especially since Mini Yorkshire Auggies may have sensitive stomachs.
Always provide fresh water for your Mini Yorkshire Aussie, and avoid feeding them table scraps or human food, as this can lead to obesity and other health issues.
Dental chews can help reduce oral bacteria and keep teeth healthy, so make sure you give them some too. Regular dental care, such as brushing their teeth, is also essential to maintain their oral health.
How Long Does a Mix Last?
A Mix can live a long and happy life with proper care. On average, a Mix can live 13 to 20 years.
Taking good care of your pet can increase its life expectancy. So go for prompt medications in case of an ailment.
Care and Maintenance
The Mini Yorkshire Aussie is a relatively low-maintenance breed that can thrive on high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared.
Regular grooming is a must, with a medium dense coat that requires regular care, including teeth cleaning, ear checks, and claw care.
They may be prone to health issues like hip dysplasia or eye problems, so regular vet visits are necessary to keep them healthy.
A Mini Yorkshire Aussie's life expectancy averages between 12 and 15 years, which is a great incentive to take good care of them.
Here are the average size and weight ranges for Mini Yorkshire Aussies:
Exercise 🐕
Exercise is essential for Mini Yorkshire Aussies to prevent boredom and maintain a healthy weight. Daily walks and playtime are a must.
They're intelligent dogs that need mental stimulation, too, so engage them in interactive activities like obedience training, agility courses, or puzzle toys. A tired dog is a happy dog, after all!
A fenced-in yard is a great idea, as it allows them to run around and get some exercise. Long walks or hikes are also a great way to burn off their energy.
Don't leave them alone for long periods, as they can get bored and develop poor behavior. If they chew furniture or bark at every squirrel, it's probably because they're bored to death!
To keep them stimulated, try training them on agility courses, taking them on hikes, or giving them puzzle toys that dispense treats.
Grooming
Grooming is a crucial part of caring for your Mini Yorkshire Aussie. Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain their overall health.
You'll need to establish a grooming routine that includes brushing their coat multiple times a week. This will help keep their fur from matting and growing over their eyes.
The recommended frequency for brushing is three times a week, but this may vary depending on your dog's individual needs. It's also essential to consult with a professional groomer to determine the best grooming routine for your furry friend.
Regular haircuts are also necessary to keep your Mini Yorkshire Aussie looking their best. These should be done every 2-3 months, depending on your dog's coat type and growth rate.
To keep your dog's ears clean and healthy, gently swab them out with a damp cloth to clear any dirt or wax buildup.
Brushing your Mini Yorkshire Aussie's teeth a few times a week can help freshen their breath and keep their gums and teeth healthy. This is especially important for Yorkshire Terriers, who are known to have dental issues.
You'll also need to check your dog's nails regularly and clip them if necessary to prevent accidental scratches or painful nail cracking.
Here's a quick rundown of the grooming tasks you'll need to perform regularly:
By following this grooming routine, you'll be able to keep your Mini Yorkshire Aussie looking and feeling their best.
Food and Diet Needs
When caring for your Mini Yorkshire Aussie, their food and diet needs are crucial. A high-quality dry food is the most convenient way to ensure they get a well-balanced array of nutrients.

You should look for kibble with lots of whole food ingredients like vegetables, lean meats, and fruits. This will provide your dog with the nutrients they need to thrive.
Appropriate portion sizes and trustworthy brands can be discussed with your vet. They'll be able to guide you on the best food for your dog's specific needs.
The athletic Mini Yorkshire Aussie will do well with foods rich in protein and fats, especially omega-3s and omega-6s. This will fuel their active lives and keep their coats, skin, and nails shiny and healthy.
Scaling Strategy
Scaling Strategy is crucial for any dog owner, especially when it comes to feeding and exercising your Mini Yorkshire Aussie. This breed's weight can range from 10 to 40 pounds, so it's essential to monitor their food intake.
To ensure your dog is getting the right amount of nutrients, consider their ideal weight range. Females typically weigh slightly less than males, but both genders usually range between 10-20 pounds for optimal health.

Exercise is also vital for maintaining your dog's weight, but it's essential to consider their height as well. At the withers, or backbone, Mini Yorkshire Aussies typically range between 8-18 inches, so high-impact activities might be too strenuous for them.
Aim for daily exercise sessions that balance playtime with gentle stretches to keep your dog happy and healthy.
Best Dog Crate
When choosing a dog crate, consider the convenience it offers. For a Mini Yorkshire Aussie, the MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate is a great option.
This crate can be set up anywhere without tools, making it a relief for pet parents. It's perfect for traveling or for those who live in small spaces.
A plastic handle makes it easy to carry around, even during long trips. This is a big plus for pet owners who need to transport their crate frequently.
The crate comes with a divider panel that's very convenient for those who have growing puppies. This feature allows you to adjust the space as your puppy grows.
The removable plastic pan can be removed for regular clean-up and maintenance. This makes it easy to keep your dog's crate clean and hygienic.
Here are some key features to consider when choosing a dog crate:
- A plastic handle for easy carrying
- A divider panel for growing puppies
- A removable plastic pan for easy clean-up
Best Dog Bed
When choosing the best dog bed for your furry friend, consider the following factors to ensure they get a comfortable and restful sleep. The Precision Pet Products SnooZZy Round Shearling Bolster Dog Bed, 21-in is a great option for Mini Yorkshire Aussies.
This dog bed is designed to conserve body heat, making it perfect for colder seasons. The raised cushioned sides add more support to the body and head.
A good dog bed should be easy to clean and maintain. Since the Precision Pet Products SnooZZy Round Shearling Bolster Dog Bed has no liner, it's easy to wash and dry.
Whether you're at home or on the go, a comfortable dog bed is essential. The Precision Pet Products SnooZZy Round Shearling Bolster Dog Bed provides a luxurious and comfortable resting place for pets.
Here are some key features to consider when selecting a dog bed:
- Raised cushioned sides for added support
- No liner for easy washing and drying
- Luxurious and comfortable resting place
Owning and Caring

Owning and Caring for a Mini Aussie Yorkie Mix can be a wonderful experience, but it's essential to be aware of their needs. They require regular grooming, with a medium dense coat that needs regular care.
Regular teeth cleaning, ear checks, and claw care are also crucial for their overall health. A balanced diet is also vital, and they can thrive on high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared.
Their life expectancy averages between 12 and 15 years, which means you'll have plenty of time to bond with your furry friend. Here's a quick rundown of their size and weight:
They're also adaptable and easy to maintain, making them suitable for beginners and seniors alike.
Are These Dogs Good for Families?
The Mini Yorkshire Aussie can make an excellent family dog, naturally fun-loving and eager to participate in activities with their owners.
They get along well with almost all adults and older children, but some traits from their parent breeds may cause friction with poorly trained dogs or very young children.
These dogs inherit excellent herding instincts from the Australian Shepherd, which means they're very protective and gentle, but can also lead to nipping at rowdy children's heels and trying to corral them.
From the Yorkshire Terrier side comes a certain attitude of disdain for disrespectful or rough treatment, manifesting in nipping, excessive barking, and general stubbornness.
You can curb these behaviors with firm, positive training and by redirecting your dog's instincts and energy toward games and toys.
Healthy mutual respect is the real key to a harmonious household, and you can generally prevent these behaviors from becoming an issue by socializing your puppy early and training children how to respect their canine friends.
Things to Know for Owning
Owning a Mini Yorkshire Aussie requires serious consideration, as it's a lifelong commitment. This breed is a cross between a Miniature Australian Shepherd and a Yorkshire Terrier.
Regular exercise is crucial, as Mini Yorkshire Aussies need at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily. This can be a combination of walks, runs, and playtime.

Their diet should be carefully managed, with high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs. A Mini Yorkshire Aussie's diet should be divided into 3-4 meals a day, with a focus on lean protein and complex carbohydrates.
Mini Yorkshire Aussies are intelligent and active, requiring mental stimulation and training. They excel in agility, obedience, and other dog sports.
Their grooming needs are moderate, with a weekly brushing and occasional trimming of their coat. This breed sheds moderately, with more shedding during seasonal changes.
Their lifespan is relatively long, with an average of 12-15 years. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventative care are essential to ensure their overall health.
Caring for
Caring for a Mini Yorkshire Aussie is relatively easy, as they have a medium dense coat that requires regular care, including regular teeth cleaning, ear checks, and claw care.
Their grooming needs are moderate, but not too high-maintenance. You can keep them looking their best with regular brushing and the occasional bath.

As for their diet, Mini Yorkshire Aussies are low-maintenance when it comes to food. They can thrive on high-quality dog food, whether it's commercially manufactured or home-prepared.
A balanced diet is essential to keep them healthy and happy. You can choose between a commercial or homemade diet, as long as it's nutrient-rich and tailored to their needs.
Here are some key facts to keep in mind when caring for a Mini Yorkshire Aussie:
Regular vet visits are crucial to ensure they remain healthy and catch any potential health issues early on.
Pet Compatibility
The Mini Yorkshire Aussie is a great breed to have around other pets, as long as you socialize them early on. They get along famously with most animals, including dogs and cats.
These amiable dogs are easygoing and companionable, making them a wonderful addition to a multi-pet household. However, it's essential to remember their hunting instincts and keep a close eye on them around small pets and prey animals.
You should never trust a Mini Yorkshire Aussie with small pets or prey animals, no matter how well-socialized they are.
3. Will Love Having a Job

The Mini Yorkshire Aussie is a high-energy breed that thrives on having a job to do. They have a strong work drive and eagerness to do a job well.
Both their parent breeds, the Miniature Australian Shepherd and the Yorkshire Terrier, contribute to this trait. They'll relish the mental and physical stimulation of having tasks to complete and activities to be a part of.
These dogs will enjoy activities such as chasing rats off a farm or helping to herd livestock. Their strong work drive makes them a great fit for active owners who enjoy working with their dogs.
Training and Behavior
The Mini Aussie Yorkie mix is a smart and highly trainable breed, but they can also be a bit stubborn at times. This means you'll need to be patient and consistent when training them.
They are known to be loyal companions and enjoy spending time with their family, which makes them a great addition to any household. They thrive on attention and affection.
Mini Aussie Yorkie mixes are naturally protective of their family and may bark at strangers, making them good watchdogs. This protective instinct can be a great asset, but it also means they need to be socialized well.
You'll want to start training your Mini Aussie Yorkie mix early on to avoid any common bad behaviors associated with terrier or herding breeds. With patience and dedication, you can turn training into a fun and engaging activity for both you and your dog.
They'll actually enjoy learning and responding to commands, so be sure to reward good behavior and provide plenty of praise and affection.
Puppies and Breeding
The Mini Yorkshire Aussie is a charming mix of cuddly and cute, and confidently self-assured. This is one smart pup, and they love to entertain their friends and family.
Their lifespan can be quite long, with some living up to 20 years, and even with a more conservative estimate, you'll be caring for this dog well into their teens.
You may find puppies with unique coat patterns, such as the stark black and tan coloring of a Yorkie, or the pretty merle patterns of the Australian Shepherd, or even a blend of the two.
Puppies
Puppies are a big responsibility, but they can bring immense joy to your life. A Mini Yorkshire Aussie can live up to 20 years, so be prepared for a long-term commitment.
They come in a variety of colors, including black and tan, merle patterns, and unique blends of the two. Their eyes can be brown, black, hazel, blue, or even two different colors.
Their charming and cute appearance belies their intelligent and confident nature. They love to entertain and will make a devoted friend for many years.
If you're considering bringing a Mini Yorkshire Aussie into your family, be prepared to care for them well into their teens.
Breeding
Breeding requires careful planning and supervision, especially when combining breeds with a significant size difference.
The Miniature American Shepherd is slightly larger than the Yorkshire Terrier, so breeders must consider this size difference when breeding.
Both parents should be healthy to ensure the puppies inherit positive traits.
Breeders must supervise the breeding process closely to guarantee the health and well-being of the parents and puppies.
Cost and Resources

The cost of owning a Mini Aussie Yorkie mix can be significant, with initial costs ranging from $1,500 to $5,000.
These costs include the purchase price of the puppy, which can vary depending on factors such as bloodlines and breeder reputation.
Spaying or neutering your Mini Aussie Yorkie mix can add an additional $50 to $500 to the initial costs.
Regular grooming is essential for this breed, with costs ranging from $30 to $90 per session.
The average lifespan of a Mini Aussie Yorkie mix is 12 to 15 years, which means you'll need to factor in ongoing costs for food, veterinary care, and supplies over the long term.
With proper care and attention, your Mini Aussie Yorkie mix can live a happy and healthy life, but it's essential to be prepared for the financial commitment.
Sources
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