Australian Cattle Dog Breed
Prized For Their Working Abilities!
Background and Description
The Australian Cattle Dog breed, also known at the Australian Heeler, Blue Heeler, and Queensland Heeler is one of
the best working dogs around. His development began in the 1800's when herding dogs were needed to control and move hundreds of wild livestock on cattle
drives lasting several days, over the rugged terrain and grazing lands of the Australian outback.
At that time, the
traditional herding dogs were not up to working under these harsh conditions and so ranchers began crossing others breeds
including the Scottish Highland Collie, the Dingo, Bull Terrier, Kelpie and Dalmation to develop the Australian
Cattle Dog. As a result, everything about his physical structure and temperament was geared toward his job.
The ACD is a compact and symmetrical dog with a muscular body of considerable substance. He
can be trained to carry out many tasks. In addition to cattle, he can move horses, goats, ducks - practically
anything that moves!
Appearance:
Height: 17-20 inches Weight: 35-45 lbs.
Color variations: Blue or blue mottled, The permissible markings are black, blue or tan markings on the head, evenly distributed. Red Speckle - good even red speckle all over.
Coat and Care:
The Australian Cattle Dog breed is double-coated. The under coat is short and dense, and the outer coat is of medium texture
and length. Very little grooming and coat maintenance is needed. Just regular brushing, along with the routine nail clipping,
ear cleaning and tooth brushing. Also paws should be inspected for any foreign matter or cuts.
Personality and Traits:
The Australian Cattle Dog breed is a highly intelligent trainable dog. He is an independent thinker, but with a strong
desire to please, so once you train him, he will take over and do what is expected. Working is what he likes to do,
so train him to do some jobs around the house or he will likely get into unacceptable behavior. Because the ACD
performed his herding work by nipping at the heels of stock, the traits still remains to a degree and needs
to be addressed during the
puppy-biting stage through bite inhibition training and socialization.
It is recommended that owners involve their ACD in flyball, agility or obedience type activities. These are excellent
ways to provide him with the mental and physical activities he needs and will result in a happier and calmer pet.
The ACD is very loyal to his family and has strong guarding instincts, making him an excellent watchdog.
Activity Level:
Naturally this dog thrives on and needs a considerable amount of exercise and vigorous walks every day. He will do best in a
family that can provide a lot of stimulating activity - not just a daily walk. Dog sports are ideal for additional activity.
Dog Toys To Consider:
Click on any toy for more details.
Space Needs:
This breed does best in a rural setting with considerable yard as well as open areas where he can run freely.
Children:
The Australian Cattle Dog breed does best with children if he is raised with them from a puppy. As with any breed of
dog, play between children and any breed of dog should always be supervised by an adult.
Elderly:
Not recommended for the elderly or more sedentary family - exercise needs would be too overwhelming.
Book Recommendations:
The Complete Australian Cattle Dog Series
A complete reference book containing a broad range of information about this incredible herding dog.
Healthy Dog Food Recipe Book
Start feeding your dog a healthier diet today with these
easy dog food recipes that your dog will
love. Get your very own copy right now and have a happier dog tomorrow!
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Share Your Dog Pictures
A great way to share photos of your herding dog
as well as all your family photos.
Give it a "free" try - you'll be glad you did!
