Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog is also referred to as the Queensland Heeler, Blue Heeler and Red Heeler. This is a purely Australian breed of Dogs that was bred specifically for cattle driving. The breed was developed in the 19th century, by crossing the Smithfield, Old Smooth Collie with the wild Dingo Dog common in Australia. In order to make the dog hardier and more aggressive, the gene of the Bull Terrier was added. The Dalmatian and the Australian Kelpie also influenced the breed.

Australian Cattle Dogs of today are very active and intelligent companions. Because they were bred for hard work, they cannot stay without a job to do even for a short while and get bored easily. This is no backyard dog, and lack of interaction may result in a highly deviant behavior. Extremely loyal with their loved ones, these dogs are very suspicious of strangers and extremely dog-aggressive. They are not good with children except those they know from early puppyhood. Australian Cattle dogs appreciate all sorts of activity, and require at least a fenced yard. They are very protective around their owners and make excellent guard dogs. These dogs do well in the obedience ring and are superb learners. They require a specific way of training, and hence they are not recommended for novice dog owners.

The Australian Cattle Dog is medium-sized, its wither height averaging 17-20 inches. These dogs show great muscularity and grace. They should neither be fragile nor cumbersome. The body is slightly longer than tall, and the legs are straight and strong. The head is broad and slightly domed. The pointed and erectile ears are set widely apart. The eyes are dark brown and oval. The double-coat consists of a short and profuse under-coat and a straight outer coat. There are two standard coat colors for these dogs: red and blue. The coat of red dogs features white hairs (red speckle). The under parts are usually lighter than the upper parts. Irregular markings are not permitted by the standard. Blue-colored Australian Cattle Dogs have black, white and gray hairs all over the body, which altogether create a shiny bluish hue. Blue dogs have tan markings on the legs.

Australian Cattle Dogs live 12-14 years on the average. Being hardy and athletic, they rarely fall ill. However, like in all breeds, there are a number of genetic abnormalities common to this particular breed, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, arthritis, progressive retinal atrophy, spondylosis, deafness, etc. Genetic diseases may not show for a long time, and hence they are almost impossible to detect in puppyhood. If you want a healthy and purebred Australian Cattle Dog, buy only from reputable breeders who can provide verified pedigree records for their dogs and puppies.