Miniature American Shepherd vs Bracco Italiano
Breed Compatibility
88% Compatible
Energy Level
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Bracco Italiano: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Bracco Italiano: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Bracco Italiano: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Bracco Italiano4/5
Good with Other Dogs
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Bracco Italiano4/5
Good with Strangers
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Bracco Italiano3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
Bracco Italiano
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Entropion: Eyelid rolls inward
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Ear Infections: Due to long ears
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Pros & Cons Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
Bracco Italiano
Pros
Excellent hunting abilities
Affectionate family companion
Intelligent and trainable
Good with children
Cons
Needs extensive exercise
Can be stubborn
Moderate drooling
Regular grooming required
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Bracco Italiano Fun Fact
Their unique extended trot gait was specifically bred for covering large hunting areas efficiently.
Heritage & Purpose
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
Bracco Italiano
Origin:
Dating back to the 4th-5th century in Italy, these dogs served as versatile hunting companions for nobility, excelling in pointing and retrieving game in varied terrain.
Special Considerations
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Bracco Italiano
Regular ear cleaning needed due to long ears. Moderate exercise requirements must be met daily. Hip and eye health should be monitored throughout life.