Miniature American Shepherd vs Toy Fox Terrier
Breed Compatibility
43% Compatible
Energy Level
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Toy Fox Terrier: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Toy Fox Terrier: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Toy Fox Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Toy Fox Terrier/5
Good with Other Dogs
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Toy Fox Terrier/5
Good with Strangers
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Toy Fox Terrier/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
Toy Fox Terrier
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting disorder
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac abnormalities
Lens Luxation: Eye lens displacement
Dental Issues: Tooth and gum problems
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
Toy Fox Terrier
Pros
Highly intelligent
Low maintenance grooming
Good for apartment living
Long lifespan
Cons
Can be stubborn
May be yappy
Prone to dental issues
Not ideal with very young children
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Toy Fox Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their tiny size, Toy Fox Terriers were originally skilled ratters on American farms!
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.
Toy Fox Terrier
Origin:
Developed in the United States during the 1930s for hunting small vermin and providing companionship. Farmers valued these dogs for their exceptional ratting abilities.
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.
Toy Fox Terrier
Requires dental attention due to small mouth size. Needs protection in extreme weather. Regular exercise essential to prevent behavioral issues.