Australian Cattle Dog
Overview and History
The Australian Cattle Dog is a confident, sturdy, and hardworking dog. As puppies they are born with a completely white coat that eventually turns to the blue, blue grey, or red coat you see on adults. Their name says it all – this breed is born to hunt, chase, and move livestock. They have an endless amount of energy and will work, tirelessly. They need to be challenged or they become bored easily.
Place of Origin
Australia
Alternate Names
Blue Heeler, Red Heeler, Queensland Heeler, ACD, Cattle Dog
- Photo Credit to Shannon Kay
Australian Cattle Dog Breed Information
Description
General
Farm Living
Guard Dog
Watch Dog
Good With Children
Best With Families
Vocal
Should Not Be Left Outdoors
Space Requirements
Medium Sized Yard
Average Life Expectancy
12 – 16 years
Breed Group
Group 7 – Herding Dogs
Registered Breed
(Links below are to the Breed Standard Page for each organization)
FCI (The World Canine Organization)
Appearance
Size, Height, and Weight
Medium Breed
Height at the shoulders: Dogs are about 18-20 inches, females are about 17-19 inches
Weight: 33 – 50 pounds.
Coat
Length: Short
Light/Minimal Shedder
Grooming Requirements:
Minimal Care
Coat Colors:
Black, Blue, blue mottled, or Tan
- Photo Credit to Shannon Kay
Personality
Temperament
Alert
Affectionate
Happy
Lively
Weary of Strangers
Watchful
Trustworthy
Loyal to the family
Loyal to the Pack Leader
Loyal to the owner
Active
Very Intelligent
Independent
Bold
Stubborn
- Photo Credit to Shannon Kay
Friendliness Towards other Dogs
Cautious – This breed tends to be more intolerant of other dogs. Regular socialization with other dogs from an early age is important to prevent unwanted behavior.
Friendliness towards other Pets
Friendly – Since they are bred to be herding animals, they do especially well around a flock, their natural instincts don’t take much to come out. They can be fine around many animals but have a bit more difficulty with other days.
Friendliness Towards Strangers
Cautious – This breed tends to be aloof with strangers. They tend to be protective over their owner. If provoked, they are known to respond to aggression or rough treatment with biting. Socialization with many new humans from a young age is important to preventing unwanted behavior.
- Photo Credit to Shannon Kay
Energy & Trainability
Energy Level
High Energy/High Exercise Needs – This breed tends to have seemingly never-ending energy and won’t be satisfied with one short walk a day.
The Australian Cattle Dog not only had endless energy, but they get bored easily. They are prone to getting into mischief when bored and so daily stimulation is important.
Training Ability
Advanced – This breed tends to require a more experienced, dedicated, and patient owner to learn and obey commands and expectations.
- Photo Credit to Shannon Kay
Additional Information About This Breed
Tips for Raising Your Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog is known for trying to herd people by nipping at their heels, like it would a flock. Strong training is required to prevent unwanted behaviours.
As with all dogs, it is important to not over exercise a puppy. They grow quickly and too much pressure on their joints can cause issues later on in life. Wait until your puppy is at least a year old before you take them on any lengthy hikes or runs.
Rescue and Adoption Organizations
Australian Cattle Dog Rescue Association USA
If you are a rescue and adoption organization and would like to see your information on this page and/or on our CAN Rescue and Adoption Organizations List, please use the contact us form and provide:
- The organization name, Web Site URL, breed/page you would like your site listed, and city and province of shelter location if applicable.
Sources:
Australian Cattle Dog Wikipedia Page 2019, The Canadian Kennel Club Website 2019, The American Kennel Club Website 2019, The Kennel Club (UK) Website 2019, and the FCI World Canine Organisation website 2019.
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