Miniature American Shepherd vs English Toy Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
English Toy Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
English Toy Spaniel: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
English Toy Spaniel: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
English Toy Spaniel5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
English Toy Spaniel5/5
Good with Strangers
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
English Toy Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
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 Toy Spaniel
Heart Disease: Mitral valve issues common
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Syringomyelia: Neurological condition
Dental Issues: Tooth overcrowding
Respiratory Issues: Due to flat face
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 Toy Spaniel
Pros
Gentle temperament
Good with families
Adaptable to apartment living
Affectionate nature
Cons
Regular grooming needed
Health issues common
Can be stubborn
Temperature sensitive
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
English Toy Spaniel Fun Fact
King Charles II was so devoted to these spaniels that they were allowed to roam freely in all royal palaces.
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 Toy Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in England during the Tudor period as companions for nobility. Favored by King Charles II, these spaniels served as cherished royal lap dogs and palace companions.
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 Toy Spaniel
Regular grooming needed for coat maintenance. Moderate exercise requirements. Health monitoring important due to breed-specific conditions.