Welcome To MASCUSA!
Join MASCUSA today and become a part of a community dedicated to celebrating, preserving, and advancing the Miniature American Shepherd. Whether you’re a passionate breeder, avid competitor, or devoted dog lover, MASCUSA offers opportunities to connect, learn, and share your love for this incredible breed!
Miniature American Shepherd Club of America
The Official Parent Club for the AKC Miniature American Shepherd
The Miniature American Shepherd Club of the USA (MASCUSA) was selected in May 2011 as the official AKC parent club for the Miniature American Shepherd—lovingly known by the acronym MAS. This breed was developed from a split with the Australian Shepherd in AKC, and also incorporating dogs known as Miniature Australian Shepherds, also known as Mini Aussie, as well as the North American Shepherds. Originally founded in 1990 as the Miniature Australian Shepherd Club of the USA and later renamed the North American Miniature Australian Shepherd Club, MASCUSA has always been at the heart of this breed’s journey.
Today, MASCUSA proudly represents AKC Miniature American Shepherd breeders and owners across the U.S. and around the globe. We’re passionate about promoting, preserving, and protecting this exceptional breed and the community that surrounds it. Our club is committed to responsible breeding practices that support the health, temperament, structure, and purpose of the Miniature American Shepherd.
We believe in doing things the right way. That is with integrity, transparency, and a spirit of collaboration. MASCUSA supports educational opportunities for members, judges, enthusiasts, and the public, and we host AKC-sanctioned events in conformation, herding, obedience, rally, agility, and tracking.
We’re here to help you connect, learn, and celebrate all the things that make this breed so special. Whether you're a seasoned breeder, a performance sport enthusiast, an adoring pet owner, or just discovering the Miniature American Shepherd for the first time—welcome to the club!
Curious about how the Miniature American Shepherd and MASCUSA came to be? From its roots in the Australian Shepherd to its recognition as a distinct AKC breed, the Miniature American Shepherd has a rich and fascinating history. Click below to take a deeper dive into the journey that shaped the breed we know and love today.
The Blueprint of the Breed: What Makes a Miniature American Shepherd?
The breed standard is the written blueprint for what makes a Miniature American Shepherd (MAS), a Mini! It outlines the ideal characteristics, temperament, structure, movement, and even cosmetic traits, such as coat color, eye color, and markings for the breed, as recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). Far more than a description, the standard is a tool used by breeders, judges, dog sports enthusiasts, and fanciers to preserve the integrity and purpose of the breed. It helps guide responsible breeding, protect breed type, and maintain consistency across generations. Whether you're involved in conformation, performance, as a pet owner who loves their dogs for hiking, companionship, therapy work, or family life, or just beginning to explore the world of Minis, we invite you to dive into the official AKC breed standard and see for yourself what defines this remarkable breed.
Health Testing and Best Practices: A Healthy MAS is a Happy MAS
As the AKC parent club for the Miniature American Shepherd, MASCUSA is committed to supporting the long-term health and preservation of the breed. We stay informed on emerging research, health statistics, and genetic discoveries, and work closely with laboratories and researchers to identify potential concerns. By monitoring trends and collaborating with experts, we are able to make informed recommendations on essential health testing and responsible breeding practices.
Whether you are a breeder, competitor, or devoted owner, understanding recommended health screenings helps protect the future of the Miniature American Shepherd.
Meet Our Member Breeders: Connecting You to the MAS Community
Meet our member breeders and explore the diverse community behind the breed. Whether you're searching for a show prospect, sport partner, or beloved companion, our member breeder listings are a great place to start. Listings are shared by MASCUSA members, each with their own unique approach and passion. While the club does not endorse individual breeders, we invite you to connect, learn more, and begin your journey here.
Explore Available Stud Dogs from Our MASCUSA Member Breeders
Our stud directory showcases dogs currently being offered at stud by MASCUSA member breeders. It’s an opportunity to discover stud dogs representing the dedication and passion of breeders across our community. While the club does not evaluate or endorse individual dogs, we invite you to connect directly with the breeders to learn more.
Miniature American Shepherd Rescue Resources: Adoption & Surrender Support
Whether you're hoping to welcome a rescued MAS into your home or need support in finding the right placement for a dog in your care, we're here to help. This section connects you with trusted rescue organizations across the country and provides guidance on both adoption and surrender. Every dog deserves a safe, loving home. We’re grateful you’re here to be part of that journey.