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Australian Cattle Dog Facts
Did you just bring home a new Australian Cattle Dog puppy and want to learn more about the breed? Or maybe you are thinking about buying a puppy and want to know if this
is the right breed for you?
No matter what your situation may be, you will find the answers to your questions right here!
History
The breed, also known as Blue Heeler, Queensland heeler or simply a Heeler, was developed by Australian ranchers to help control cattle.
It's ancestor, Hall's Heeler, was a dog developed from a cross of the Scottish Collie and a native Australian dog, Dingo. The breed as we know it today was developed in mid 1800s by crossing Hall's Heeler with Australian Kelpie and a Dalmatian. Some experts believe that the Italian Greyhound and the Bull Terrier could have also been used.
Though its name may sound similar to Australian Shepherd, these are two distinct breeds.
Physical Characteristics of Australian Cattle Dog
This is a medium sized breed. It has a muscular body that is slightly longer than it is tall, deep chest, a wide head with a large nose and medium sized and erect ears. The tail is long.
It has a medium length double coat consisting of a straight, harsh outer coat and a dense and smooth undercoat. The outer coat comes in two basic colors, blue or red, and many markings and patterns.
| Height | Weight | ||
| Male | 17 to 20 inches | 35 to 50 pounds | |
| Female | 16 to 19 inches | 30 to 45 pounds |
Temperament
The Australian Cattle Dog is intelligent, loyal and, like all herding dogs, protective and full of energy.
Though they tend to be one-person dogs, they are friendly and easygoing with those they are familiar with but can be wary with strangers. As they grow older, they become more wary and cautious.
They herd cattle by nipping at their feet and tails. Unfortunately, they will do the same with humans. Good dog chew toys will diminish this annoying behavior.
Though they are good with other dogs, especially herding dogs, fights to establish a social order are quite common.
Best Owner
This is not a good dog for an apartment living. It requires an active and experienced owner living in the suburbs.
You also need to be firm in your approach to training.
Unless you establish yourself as a leader or if you allow your puppy to bond with an older dog, you may have hard time controlling your dog when he grows up.
Some Australian Cattle Dog breeders may interview prospective owners to make sure they are qualified.
Activity and Exercise
This is a very active dog. Unless you provide him with plenty of exercise, chances are, he will become bored and resort to a lot of destructive behaviors.
A large, fenced yard will allow your pet to get the exercise that he needs. It's also a good idea to take him for several long walks every day.
Grooming
The Australian Cattle Dog is an average shedder. Use a firm bristle brush and a comb to brush several times a week. Bathe only when necessary.
Health Concerns
The known health concerns include hip dysplasia and deafness.
To avoid the above and many other problems, buy only from reputable Australian Cattle Dog breeders.
Life Expectancy
The average life expectancy is 12 to 15 years but a dog named Bluey lived to be almost 30 years before he died in 1939. He was the oldest dog that ever lived.
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