The backstory
I’m Taylor Hayes, and I’m the one lucky enough to share life (and the ring) with some of the very cleverest dogs.
My journey with dogs began at nine years old in the Chautauqua County 4-H program, where I trained my first dog, an English Springer Spaniel. That early passion for training, problem-solving, and helping dogs reach their full potential laid the groundwork for everything I do today.
Since 2017, I’ve been actively training and competing in a wide range of performance and companion events with my Miniature American Shepherds. My dogs have earned titles in Conformation, Obedience, Rally, Agility, Dock Diving, Scent Work, Lure Coursing, Fast CAT, Barn Hunt, Disc, Trick Dog, and CGC. I love to explore the full potential of this breed across multiple venues.
Learn more about each Cleverest dog’s accomplishments ›
I’ve always taken the responsibility of breeding seriously and waited until I felt truly ready: established in my home, stable in my career, and surrounded by a supportive network of trusted, experienced mentors. That support system gave me the confidence to take the leap, and I welcomed my first bred-by litter in 2022.
Co-owning with Dynasty Minis (Maisel & Leviosa) and Atomic Minis (Newton) allowed me to start with hands-on guidance, mentorship, and the benefit of decades of combined experience. Their belief in my goals and their generosity in sharing their knowledge has been instrumental in shaping Cleverest. I remain deeply grateful for their support and proud to stay closely aligned with their vision and commitment to quality.
Cleverest is a small, purpose-driven breeding program. First and foremost, all breeding dogs are beloved companions. Litters are carefully planned and very limited, with a focus on long-term goals, breed preservation, and producing dogs who are capable, sound, and joyful partners in both work and life.
I hold my program to high standards. All dogs receive OFA hip evaluations, annual eye exams, and have a correct scissors bite. When applicable, dogs are DNA tested using comprehensive panels to help inform responsible breeding decisions.
Puppies are raised in my home using thoughtful, evidence-based protocols for early neurological stimulation, socialization, and enrichment. At age-appropriate milestones, I emphasize confidence and curiosity by introducing foundational skills such as tugging, offering behaviors, and early scent work. My goal is to develop well-rounded puppies with the structure, temperament, and resilience to thrive in a variety of roles — from competition to companionship.
Cleverest is built on a deep respect for the Miniature American Shepherd: a breed that’s both athletic and intelligent, loyal and lively. I’m committed to honoring that versatility through every decision I make, every litter I raise, and every dog I stand behind.
I believe that compassion and integrity are non-negotiable. This applies not only to how we treat our dogs, but also to the humans they share their lives with.
Cleverest is firmly committed to cultivating an inclusive and respectful environment for individuals and families of all identities, backgrounds, and orientations.
If you are aligned with these values, you are welcome here.
If not — I’m not the breeder for you.
Contact Cleverest
Interested in learning more or connecting about a future puppy? I welcome inquiries from homes ready to engage with an active, intelligent breed, whether as a competition partner or a well-loved companion. Fill out a puppy application here.
Litters are limited and placements are made thoughtfully. While I prioritize performance-minded homes, every litter includes puppies who are better suited to active, committed pet homes, and I value those prospective owners just as much!