The term "Australian shepherd" is a mis-name for this intelligent, loyal dog.  The breed was actually developed here in the United States.  It is believed that Basque shepherds, who had migrated to Australia, came to California during the Gold Rush days. They brought with them their sheep herding dogs, which over the years were crossed with other intelligent herding breeds to develop a hardier, more adaptable breed for multiple purposes.  These became the ancestors of the Australian Shepherd, the Miniature Australian Shepherd, and the Toy Australian Shepherd.

Because of their herding background, aussies of all sizes are excellent guardians of their property, loyal members of their families, and are sometimes known to "herd" their human "kids", the family cat, and other dogs in the home.  They are very anxious to please, and very sensitive.  It is not necessary to sternly discipline an aussie--just raising the voice will usually crush them and make them sorry for whatever their transgression may be.  They are very easily trained due to their high intelligence and desire to please.

The energy level can be  high, for playing Frisbee, fetching a ball, or playing with their toys.  Mini Aussies are excellent in Agility competitions, Herding trials, and Flyball games.  They are not  as high-energy as some breeds, such as border collies.  However,  If they are alone for many hours a day with nothing to do, they may turn their activity to destructive behavior, so they need to have toys, and may need to be in a restricted area, such as the yard, or in a pen.   They are equally happy being couch potatoes, especially cuddled with their favorite humans

For people who have always admired the high intelligence of dogs like collies, border collies, australian shepherds and various sheep dogs, but felt they were just too big for their suburban home or apartment, the mini and toy aussies are a wonderful answer.  Weighing from 10 to 30 pounds as adults, a toy or mini can comfortably fit in your home, your car, and, of course, your bed.