Australian Cattle Dog: An Amazing Herding Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog, also known as Blue Heeler or Red Heeler, is a hardy and independent herding dog, depending on its color. It can herd cattle over long distances and on rough terrain. It has a medium build that helps balance the speed and agility needed to control cattle. For over 200 years, these dogs have worked as herding dogs. They are still in use throughout Australia and other parts of the world.

Australian Cattle Dogs are highly energetic and need something to do to keep themselves out of trouble. They are playful and safe to have around children. While they tolerate other pets, they are wary of strange people and unfamiliar dogs. The Australian Cattle Dog should be an excellent watchdog and family protector in a home that maintains an active, outdoor lifestyle.

Brief History Of The Australian Cattle Dog

Australian Cattle Dogs originated in Australia in the early 1800s as a cross between local droving dogs and dingos.

Much like West Texas, most of Australia is miles and miles of nothing but miles and miles. Ranchers in the 1800s had to drive their wild cattle over long distances to reach a market.

They needed a dog that was sturdy, energetic, and intelligent. The dog also had to control cattle without barking. Barking could cause the cattle herd to become frightened and more uncontrollable.

Thomas Hall began breeding such a dog and, by the 1840s, succeeded with a dog that was up to the job. His dog breed became known as “Hall’s Heelers.” Other breeders began crossing Hall’s Heelers with the Bull Terrier, Black and Tan Kelpie, and the Dalmatian.

The result was a breed known as the Queensland Blue Terrier. Later, the name changed to the Australian Heeler and the Australian Cattle Dog. In 1980, the AKC recognized this breed, and it was a charter member of the Herding Group established in 1983.

The female Australian Cattle Dog is approximately 17–19 inches tall, and the male is about 18–20 inches. They have a relatively rectangular build and should be longer than tall. The length of its body should be greater than the height at the withers. An Australian Cattle Dog weighs around 40–55 pounds.

The Australian Cattle Dog needs a lot of physical activity. Like other herding dogs, the Cattle Dog may find something to do on its own, which may not be what you want it to do.

A walk on a leash is good but needs more than an occasional stroll. Individual dogs have their own needs, but as a breed, the Australian Cattle Dog is capable of any activity that calls for athletic ability, intelligence, and endurance.

Taking Care of the Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle dog is one breed that must have daily exercise and lots of it3. They work tirelessly, and a few brisk walks on the leash is generally not enough. Instead, they need to run and play vigorous games. The Australian Cattle Dog will be a happy family member with intellectual challenges and obedience training.

These dogs tolerate moderately cool and hot temperatures and can live outside if necessary. However, they like to be inside with the rest of the family at night. A natural-born guard dog will protect the family from intruders.

Grooming requires weekly brushing to remove dead hairs and an occasional bath.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Australian Cattle Dog is between 12 to 16 years. The average size is 17 to 20 inches and a weight of 33 to 49 pounds. Many of these dogs will remain healthy and active in their senior years.

The breed’s major health concerns are eye problems, deafness,  and hip dysplasia. Veterinarians suggest that Australian Cattle Dogs get tested explicitly for hearing, eye, hip, and elbow problems.