​Minisoda Shepherds was born in 2007 when we acquired our first Mini, Sierra Mist. At that time our dogs were registered as North American Miniature Australian Shepherds and shown in rare breed shows. We learned so much from smart, sweet and sassy Sierra that it felt like she trained us to show. She inspired us to learn to compete in as many different venues as we possibly could learn.

Because we enjoyed Sierra so much, we later added Fitz, Splash, Laynie, Lizzy, Tozer, Wren, Addie and Chase to our family. Some of our potential breed dogs and retired dogs live with partner families. We are committed to having just three adults living in our home at one time so that they all get the attention they need.

In 2015, many Mini Aussie enthusiasts desired to be able to show our breed in the American Kennel Club. As we negotiated recognition we voted to drop the North and Australian from our name to be known as the Miniature American Shepherd. We are recognized now as a related but separate breed than the Australian Shepherd. We have our own breed standard and compete separately in the AKC Herding Group.

The name Minisoda comes from the small cans of soda that are served  at large conventions and meetings. They are about half the size of a regular 12 ounce can, yet they contain the same flavor and ingredients. The Mini should have all the same ingredients of an Aussie but be about 1/2 his size.

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This photo of Teddy (a Lizzy/Fitz pup) was submitted by Dan and not taken by us. As a disclaimer, not all dogs love children and not all children are respectful of dogs. But it is a beautiful thing when a child and puppy are taught to be mutually respectful of each other.