Australian Cattle Dog

This breed was originally referred to as the Australian Heeler, and is still often called the Queensland Heeler. The term “heeler” is a reference this breeds ability to herd cattle by nipping and snapping at their heels. Most breed experts believe the Australian Cattle Dog is the result of a breeding between a Blue Smooth Highland Collie and the native Australian Dingo.

The Australian Cattle Dog is considered one of the most intelligent breeds around today. They are independent, loyal, brave and full of energy. Although they are easy to train, they do require firm training and a great deal of attention early in life to reach their full potential.

This dog is naturally cautious and wary of strangers, making them excellent guard dogs. Many become more cautious as they mature. They can be aggressive with other dogs and are only good with children they have been raised with from the beginning. Like many cattle dogs, the ACD has a tendency to herd small animals and nip at the heels of unsuspecting people.

This breed needs plenty of exercise and becomes quite destructive if they become bored. Having a strong work ethic, they are never completely happy unless that have something to do, such as agility trials or competitive obedience training. This dog is not suited for apartment life and needs at least a large yard to meet their exercise requirements.

This well-muscled, agile dog stands between 17 and 20 inches and weighs between 30 and 35 pounds. Their short, weather resistant double coat is seen either blue or red speckled, and both color types have distinctive face markings. This breed is very easy to groom, requiring only minimal brushing for maintenance.

Australian Cattle Dogs are prone to hip dysplasia and deafness, but can claim a long life of between 12 and 15 years. Perhaps because of a rumored Dalmation mix early in their history, pups are born white; but their adult color can be seen in their paw pads. Most come from litters of between 1 and 7 pups, with the average being 5.