Breeder Spotlight – Melissa Zobell

1. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background in breeding Miniature American Shepherds?

I started in Australian Shepherds at the age of 11. Originally Aussies were smaller, I believe over the years with AKC recognition they have been bred up in size, bone and coat. I have been involved with MAS long before AKC recognition, I am a petite girl and I felt like the MAS that I breed is more true to the Aussies I grew up with. I have maintained true AKC/ASCA Australian Shepherd lineage in my MAS. 

2. What drew you to the Miniature American Shepherd breed, and what do you love most about them?

Their brains! Such smart dogs, they have a wicked sense of humor. Of course they also are beautiful to look at as well. Every one of them is unique.

3. How do you approach the breeding process to ensure the health and well-being of your dogs?

Logically, with research and study. Too many breeders focus on things that do not matter in the long run. A clear DNA breed panel is not an indication of health. Eye Caer, OFA, and longevity is far more an indicator of health. Generations of passing eyes and OFA is more important to me than DNA results. 

4. What are the most important qualities you look for in a Miniature American Shepherd when considering breeding?

Sound structure, movement and type. Color is only the icing on the cake. DNA results to attempt to avoid producing affected dogs. OFA results, of not only the potential parents, but generations back. 

5. What challenges have you faced as a breeder, and how have you overcome them?

The frustration of this being a “color” breed and pet buyers only wanting merles or blue eyes. Or of breeders not educating themselves on the breed standard, not understanding the importance of proper movement. (If it doesn’t move correctly, it isn’t built correctly). The breed is suffering so badly from over popularity. Overcoming it?? I just stay in my own lane and do what I feel is best for the breed and for my program. Letting others learn from their own mistakes is best. 

6. Can you describe your kennel’s environment and how you ensure that your dogs are well-socialized?

Handling a lot as newborns, exposing them to things such as the dremel, the dryer, other dogs and cats. My grandchildren are an amazing asset. 

7. How do you select prospective owners for your puppies? What qualities do you look for?

I require a phone interview to gauge their potential environment. Getting to know their individual needs is important for both the puppy and the buyer. Forming a relationship to be a constant resource for them is invaluable. 

8. What advice would you give to someone interested in becoming a breeder of Miniature American Shepherds?

FIND A MENTOR. Attend AKC shows, read the breed standard, find a breeder who’s dogs you like, look for consistency in their dogs type and for their successes in the breed. Be willing to coown and follow a contract. 

9. Can you tell us about any notable successes or achievements you’ve had with your dogs (titles, recognition, etc.)?

To date, I’m the only AKC Platinum Breeder of Merit in the MAS breed. MASCUSA Hall of Fame Breeder, 2016/2017/2018 MASCUSA Top Conformation Breeder of the Year, Breeder/Owner 2018 Westminster Best of Breed Winner, Breeder of 2020 Westminster Best Opposite Winner. Multiple National Specialty wins. 

10. How do you stay updated on new developments in the breed and the dog world in general?

Staying in touch with labs and universities, along with breeders. 

11. What are your thoughts on the future of the Miniature American Shepherd breed and how do you see it evolving?

I think due to the closing of the stud books our breed will have issues in diversity. I also feel there is a new focus on small, small, small and breed type is lacking. This is NOT a toy breed! They are and should remain a smaller Australian Shepherd, in type, movement, and work ethic. 

12. Is there anything else you’d like to share about your journey as a breeder or any special stories about your dogs?

Good things come to those who wait. Be patient, work hard, stay focused. Persistence pays off. Never forget to love your dogs, they do everything to please us, and deserve only the best. I have many stories I could tell, but watching my kids, grandkids live with and love the companion dogs I have bred and the ones that will live out their lives here is the biggest reward I can achieve. There is more to it than ribbons and titles.