About the miniature american shepherd (found on akc.org)

The Miniature American Shepherd resembles a small Australian Shepherd. Minis are bright, self-motivated workers and endearingly loyal and lively companion dogs who have an affinity for horses. The Miniature American Shepherd shares many physical traits with its forebear the Australian Shepherd, only on a smaller scale. Females stand between 13 and 17 inches at the shoulder. Despite their size, Minis are every inch a true herding dog: energetic, versatile, rugged, and extremely bright. The eye-catching coat comes in black, blue merle, red, and red merle. (The merle will exhibit in any amount marbling, flecks, or blotches.)