Australian Cattle Dog

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Australian Cattle Dog
Prized For His Working Abilities!

The Australian Cattle Dog also known at the 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 ACD. 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 & Care:

The Australian Cattle Dog 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 inspect the paws for any foreign matter or cuts.

Personality and Traits:

The Australian Cattle Dog 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 be 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.

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 thrive in a family that can provide a lot of stimulating activity - not just a daily walk.

Dog Toys To Consider:

Click on any toy for more details.

Space Needs:

Rural setting with considerable yard as well as open areas where he can run freely.

Children:

The Australian Cattle Dog does best with children if he is raised with them from a puppy. As with any breed of dog, play should always be supervised by an adult.