Miniature American Shepherd vs Parson Russell Terrier
Breed Compatibility
85% Compatible
Energy Level
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Parson Russell Terrier: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Parson Russell Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Parson Russell Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Parson Russell Terrier3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Parson Russell Terrier5/5
Good with Strangers
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Parson Russell Terrier3/5
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
Parson Russell Terrier
Lens luxation: Eye lens displacement
Ataxia: Neurological coordination issue
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss
Glaucoma: Eye pressure condition
Patellar luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Primary lens luxation: Eye disorder
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
Parson Russell Terrier
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent exercise companion
Compact size
Low grooming needs
Cons
High exercise requirements
Strong prey drive
Can be stubborn
May be vocal
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Parson Russell Terrier Fun Fact
These terriers can jump up to five times their own height, making them exceptional athletes in dog sports!
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.
Parson Russell Terrier
Origin:
Developed in England during the 1800s as a skilled fox hunting terrier, these dogs excelled at following quarry underground and maintaining steady pursuit during hunts.
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.
Parson Russell Terrier
Requires secure fencing due to high prey drive. Weekly grooming needed to maintain coat. Daily exercise essential for physical and mental well-being.