The Miniature American Shepherd will be recognised by the Royal Kennel Club with effect from 1 July 2026. The breed will be classified in the Pastoral Group on the Imported Breed Register. Until such time as a Royal Kennel Club interim breed standard has been published, the Miniature American Shepherd is not eligible to compete at Royal Kennel Club licensed breed shows.
The Miniature American Shepherd originated in the United States as a compact and highly versatile herding dog, prized for its intelligence, agility, and loyalty. Recognised by the American Kennel Club in 2011 and by the FCI in 2019, the breed has continued to grow in popularity and is now becoming increasingly established in the UK.
The Royal Kennel Club will recognise 227 breeds of pedigree dog from 1 July 2026 following the simultaneous recognition of the Yakutian Laika. The last breed to be recognised was the Hungarian Mudi in July 2025.