It is a herding dog by lineage and training, so it will naturally try to herd children, cars, and other animals. They do this by nipping or biting at their target. If this behavior is allowed to happen, the dog may become a nuisance. Proper training and consistency from a young age is key to inhibiting unwanted behavior as the puppy grows up.
Exercise
Owners of the Australian Cattle Dog will need to provide a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. This breed is most content and happy when they have a job or work to do. It is definitely a breed not recommended for apartment life and will do best with a large yard, plenty of exercise, and an owner that has an active lifestyle. Given their heritage, they excel in agility, herding, tricks, and obedience.
Training
Proper training and consistency from a young age is critical to negate improper behavior, along with plenty of exercise and activity to keep their mental acuity sharp. Although the Australian Cattle Dog is not generally a barker, it will sound an alarm if strangers come near their property.
Grooming
The Australian Cattle Dog has a short haired coat that is weather-resistant. Their coat needs little care and is easy to groom. Simply comb and brush it with a bristle brush and bathe when necessary. It tends to shed its coat one to two times per year.
Origin
When settlers from Europe arrived in Australia the dog breeds they brought with them, namely the Smithfield and Old Smooth Collie (not the same Smooth Collie of today), were unable to handle the long distances and inhospitable climate. As a result, the Australian Cattle Dog was developed by crossing Dingo-blue merle Collies to Dalmatians and black and tan Kelpies. (Some sources say the Bull Terrier breed may have been added as well.) The result was a breed of dog that were excellent at working and herding cattle on ranches. The Australian Cattle Dog worked the stock effectively and were willing and able to drive cattle across long distances under harsh conditions.
The Australian Cattle Dog has also been called the Australian Heeler, Hall’s Heeler, Queensland Heeler, and Blue Heeler. The name “Heeler” refers to its snapping and biting cattle’s heels when herding.
Clubs, Registries & Associations
(Based on breed recognition. See store for details on a particular puppy.)
- American Canine Association, Inc.
- The American Canine Registry
- American Kennel Club
- American Pet Registry, Inc.
- Continental Kennel Club
- Dog Registry of America, Inc.
- North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
- National Kennel Club
- United Kennel Club
Additional Information
Group: Herding
Average Weight: 30-40 lbs.
Personality Traits: Courageous, energetic, enthusiastic
Country of Origin: Australia
Coat: Short
Check out the Australian Cattle Dog puppies for sale we currently have in our stores. If there are none here, please contact us and we’ll be in touch.
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This article has been reviewed by Animal Kingdom’s expert team to ensure accuracy and reliable pet care guidance.
