Miniature American Shepherd vs English Springer Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
81% Compatible
Energy Level
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
English Springer Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
English Springer Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
English Springer Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
English Springer Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
English Springer Spaniel4/5
Good with Strangers
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
English Springer Spaniel4/5
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
English Springer Spaniel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
Ear Infections: Due to floppy ears
Phosphofructokinase: Metabolic disorder
Retinal Dysplasia: Eye development issue
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development problem
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
English Springer Spaniel
Pros
Excellent family companion
Highly trainable
Athletic and versatile
Good with children
Cons
Requires regular exercise
Needs consistent grooming
Can be prone to ear infections
May be too energetic for some
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
English Springer Spaniel Fun Fact
Their 'springing' hunting technique of flushing birds into flight gave this breed its distinctive name.
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.
English Springer Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in England during the 1800s as skilled bird hunting dogs, specifically for flushing and retrieving game in varying terrain. Valued for exceptional nose work and stamina.
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.
English Springer Spaniel
Regular ear cleaning needed to prevent infections. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Coat needs routine maintenance to prevent matting.