The Dog Word

Australian Cattle Dog

18+ Categories all about the Australian Cattle Dog breed including information about their personality, appearance, Energy level, training ability, and more. Check it out now!

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

3 Australian Cattle Dogs
  • 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


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

Hypoallergenic: No

Light/Minimal Shedder

Grooming Requirements:

Minimal Care

Coat Colors:

Black, Blue, blue mottled, or Tan

Australian Cattle Dog
  • 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.

3 Australian Cattle Dogs
  • 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.

Australian Cattle Dog
  • 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

Alberta Herding Dog Rescue

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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