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Welcome
to Cedar Valley Ranch. My name is Vicki Hoven, and I am proud to share
these wonderful dogs with you. All my dogs are OFA certified and are
CERF cleared yearly. I have a small breeding program, only producing
one or two litters a year. I breed for superior temperament, health
and beauty. Being a superb and healthy companion is our first
concern. 
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 The Miniature Australian Shepherd (a.k.a. the North American Shepherd) is the result of a
breeding program that was begun in 1968 to produce a scaled-down version of the Australian
Shepherd. The aim was to develop a small herder and guardian of the home, maintaining all
of the qualities of the larger version except for size.The MAS stands 13 and up to (but not including) 18 inches
at the shoulder and weighs 20 to 35 pounds. They are compact, well balanced, very athletic
and alert without being hyperactive or "yappy". The coat is moderate in length,
straight or slightly wavy, with undercoat, and comes in blue merle, black, red merle and
red, all with or without white markings and tan (copper) points. They require minimal
grooming (brushing once a week or as required depending on their activities, and only
occasional bathing), though some may experience a dramatic seasonal shed. They tend to
have little "doggy odor". The eyes may be brown, blue, amber or green, or any
color combination including flecked or marbled, or one eye different than the other. The
tail will either be naturally bobbed or docked at an early age. Though there is a standard
for these dogs, the variety in appearance and love-ability coaxes many people to want more
than one!
This breed needs regular exercise and is versatile, hardy
and enthusiastic. They are sensitive and easily trained, and should be handled gently as a
result of this. MAS are good guardians of the home, possessing varying degrees of herding
instincts, and are entirely devoted to their masters. They need affection from their
families but are not overbearing. They typically get along well with other dogs and pets
as well as people, including children, though they may be reserved at first. The
"Mini Aussie" is a fun-loving dog, often excelling in agility, obedience,
flyball, frisbee and other sports.
The MAS is not currently recognized by the American Kennel
Club (AKC), but may earn titles through other dog clubs in the U.S., such as the American
Rare Breed Association (ARBA), Canine Kennel Club (CKC), & International All Breed
Canine Association (IABCA). 
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