Dog Breeds - Australian Cattle Dog

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of warmth and affection a particular breed is anticipated to display towards family members, as well as individuals they are familiar with. Certain breeds may appear distant and indifferent towards everyone except their owner, whereas other breeds extend their friendly nature to anyone they have formed a bond with.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
A breed's degree of tolerance and patience towards the behavior of children, as well as its overall friendly nature towards families, are important considerations. It is crucial to supervise dogs when they are around young children or any children who have limited experience with dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
Evaluating the overall friendliness of a dog breed towards other dogs is crucial. To promote positive interactions, it is essential to supervise and introduce dogs properly, as some breeds possess innate characteristics that facilitate better compatibility with other canines both in home environments and in social settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair a particular breed is prone to shedding should be taken into account. Breeds that shed excessively will require frequent brushing to manage the loose hair. They may also be more likely to trigger allergies in some individuals, and as a result, more consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling may be necessary to keep the environment clean.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The grooming effort required greatly depends on how frequently a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming, or engaging in other sorts of coat maintenance. It's necessary to evaluate the time, patience, and budget you have available for this level of care. Additionally, remember that regular nail trimming is essential for all breeds.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
Consider the level of propensity a particular breed has for drooling. If you have a strong preference for cleanliness, breeds of dogs that have the tendency to leave long streaks of saliva on your arm or create noticeable wet patches on your attire may not align with your preferences.
COAT TYPE +
Smooth, Double
COAT LENGTH +
Short

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The degree of friendliness a breed exhibits towards unfamiliar individuals can vary significantly. Certain breeds tend to be more reserved or cautious around strangers, irrespective of the setting, whereas other breeds eagerly embrace the opportunity to meet new people whenever they are present.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The degree of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play can persist even beyond their puppyhood. Certain breeds tend to maintain a strong desire to engage in active play, such as tug-of-war or fetch, well into their adult years. Conversely, other breeds may be content with spending most of their time relaxing on the couch and enjoying calm activities with their owners.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Certain breeds have a higher inclination to notify their owners of the presence of unfamiliar individuals. These breeds are more likely to exhibit a reaction to potential threats, whether it be the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, once these breeds become familiar with someone who enters the house and is accepted by their family, they are likely to become more receptive to those individuals.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to handle changes can encompass various aspects of day-to-day life, including alterations in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, and daily schedules. Some breeds demonstrate a higher level of ease in adapting to these changes displaying a resilient and flexible nature. They are generally more capable of adjusting to different environments and managing variations in their routines. However, other breeds might exhibit more sensitivity and may require a more gradual introduction to change in order to adapt comfortably.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training a dog and their willingness to learn new things can vary among different breeds. Some breeds display a natural inclination and eagerness to please their owners, making them relatively easy to train. They actively seek to make their owners proud and are generally receptive to learning new commands and behaviors. On the other hand, certain breeds may exhibit more independence and a preference for doing things on their own terms. They may require additional patience and creative training methods to motivate them to learn and comply with commands. Understanding a breed's specific traits and tendencies can greatly assist in tailoring the training approach to their individual needs.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
Various breeds have different demands for exercise and mental stimulation. High-energy breeds display a remarkable readiness and an insatiable enthusiasm for their next adventure. They dedicate their time to running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. Conversely, low-energy breeds resemble couch potatoes, content to lounge around and enjoy restful nap times.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
It's interesting to note the frequency at which this particular breed expresses itself through vocalization, whether it's through barks or howls. While certain breeds tend to bark at every person passing by or bird perching on a window, others reserve their barking for specific situations. Additionally, there are breeds that don't bark but still manage to communicate effectively through alternative sounds.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The mental stimulation required for a breed to maintain its happiness and overall well-being should not be underestimated. Purpose-bred dogs, in particular, may have specific jobs that demand decision-making, problem-solving, concentration, and other cognitive skills. Without adequate mental exercise, these dogs are likely to seek out their own activities to keep their minds occupied. Unfortunately, these self-created projects may not align with the preferences of their owners or be conducive to a harmonious living environment. Therefore, it is crucial to provide sufficient mental stimulation to prevent undesirable behaviors and promote a healthy, balanced lifestyle for purpose-bred dogs.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of warmth and affection a particular breed is anticipated to display towards family members, as well as individuals they are familiar with. Certain breeds may appear distant and indifferent towards everyone except their owner, whereas other breeds extend their friendly nature to anyone they have formed a bond with.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

A breed's degree of tolerance and patience towards the behavior of children, as well as its overall friendly nature towards families, are important considerations. It is crucial to supervise dogs when they are around young children or any children who have limited experience with dogs.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

Evaluating the overall friendliness of a dog breed towards other dogs is crucial. To promote positive interactions, it is essential to supervise and introduce dogs properly, as some breeds possess innate characteristics that facilitate better compatibility with other canines both in home environments and in social settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair a particular breed is prone to shedding should be taken into account. Breeds that shed excessively will require frequent brushing to manage the loose hair. They may also be more likely to trigger allergies in some individuals, and as a result, more consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling may be necessary to keep the environment clean.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The grooming effort required greatly depends on how frequently a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming, or engaging in other sorts of coat maintenance. It's necessary to evaluate the time, patience, and budget you have available for this level of care. Additionally, remember that regular nail trimming is essential for all breeds.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

Consider the level of propensity a particular breed has for drooling. If you have a strong preference for cleanliness, breeds of dogs that have the tendency to leave long streaks of saliva on your arm or create noticeable wet patches on your attire may not align with your preferences.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Smooth, Double

COAT SPECTRUM

Short

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The degree of friendliness a breed exhibits towards unfamiliar individuals can vary significantly. Certain breeds tend to be more reserved or cautious around strangers, irrespective of the setting, whereas other breeds eagerly embrace the opportunity to meet new people whenever they are present.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The degree of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play can persist even beyond their puppyhood. Certain breeds tend to maintain a strong desire to engage in active play, such as tug-of-war or fetch, well into their adult years. Conversely, other breeds may be content with spending most of their time relaxing on the couch and enjoying calm activities with their owners.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

Certain breeds have a higher inclination to notify their owners of the presence of unfamiliar individuals. These breeds are more likely to exhibit a reaction to potential threats, whether it be the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, once these breeds become familiar with someone who enters the house and is accepted by their family, they are likely to become more receptive to those individuals.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed to handle changes can encompass various aspects of day-to-day life, including alterations in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, and daily schedules. Some breeds demonstrate a higher level of ease in adapting to these changes displaying a resilient and flexible nature. They are generally more capable of adjusting to different environments and managing variations in their routines. However, other breeds might exhibit more sensitivity and may require a more gradual introduction to change in order to adapt comfortably.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training a dog and their willingness to learn new things can vary among different breeds. Some breeds display a natural inclination and eagerness to please their owners, making them relatively easy to train. They actively seek to make their owners proud and are generally receptive to learning new commands and behaviors. On the other hand, certain breeds may exhibit more independence and a preference for doing things on their own terms. They may require additional patience and creative training methods to motivate them to learn and comply with commands. Understanding a breed's specific traits and tendencies can greatly assist in tailoring the training approach to their individual needs.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

Various breeds have different demands for exercise and mental stimulation. High-energy breeds display a remarkable readiness and an insatiable enthusiasm for their next adventure. They dedicate their time to running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. Conversely, low-energy breeds resemble couch potatoes, content to lounge around and enjoy restful nap times.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Infrequent

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The mental stimulation required for a breed to maintain its happiness and overall well-being should not be underestimated. Purpose-bred dogs, in particular, may have specific jobs that demand decision-making, problem-solving, concentration, and other cognitive skills. Without adequate mental exercise, these dogs are likely to seek out their own activities to keep their minds occupied. Unfortunately, these self-created projects may not align with the preferences of their owners or be conducive to a harmonious living environment. Therefore, it is crucial to provide sufficient mental stimulation to prevent undesirable behaviors and promote a healthy, balanced lifestyle for purpose-bred dogs.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Blue	037
Blue Mottled	438
Blue Speckled	439
Red Speckled	440
Red Mottled	455

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Tan Markings	012
Red Markings	023
Black & Tan Markings	039

About The Breed

The Australian Cattle Dog, also known as Blue or Red Heeler or Queensland Heeler is a compact yet muscular breed with a close relation to the wild dog of Australia the Dingo. These resilient herders are exceptionally intelligent and often display cleverness that can outwit their owners. With a height ranging from 17 to 20 inches at the shoulder, the Australian Cattle Dog boasts a robust and agile physique. The breed is born with a white coat, which will eventually turn either blue-gray or red, both of which can feature unique patterns of mottling or speckling.

Renowned for their remarkable work ethic Australian Cattle Dogs excel at controlling and moving livestock exhibiting tremendous drive and skill. Their enduring energy and flexible gait make them superb companions for running. Additionally, ACDs are known for their unwavering loyalty, exceptional intelligence, constant vigilance, and a tendency to be cautious around unfamiliar individuals. However, if not provided with sufficient mental and physical challenges, they can easily become bored and engage in mischievous behavior. It is highly recommended for ACD owners to engage in work-related activities, sports, or regular exercise with their dogs to ensure their mental and physical well-being.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Australian Cattle Dog: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	A conscientious breeder will carefully examine the breeding animals for health issues such as deafness, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) resulting in vision loss, and hip dysplasia. It is important to regularly inspect the ears of an Australian Cattle Dog (ACD) to remove any foreign objects and prevent excessive accumulation of earwax. Additionally, maintaining proper oral hygiene for an ACD entails regularly brushing their teeth. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Hip Evaluation Elbow Evaluation BAER Testing Primary Lens Luxation (PLL) - DNA Test Ophthalmologist Evaluation Progressive Retinal Atrophy, PRCD (PRA-prcd, PRCD) - DNA Test

Grooming

	The Australian Cattle Dog was specifically developed for outdoor work and possesses a sleek double-layered coat that provides ample protection against various weather conditions. Fortunately, this coat does not give off any unpleasant odors or leave behind oily residue, which means that a simple brushing once per week and occasional bathing is generally sufficient for maintenance. However, it's important to note that the ACD experiences two shedding seasons annually. During these times, it is advisable to brush the dog more frequently every few days using a short-bristle brush and possibly a comb to effectively remove dead hair. Additionally, like all dog breeds regular nail trimming is necessary for an Australian Cattle Dog.

Exercise

	The Australian Cattle Dog is known for its remarkable activity level and high energy. Merely providing a brief walk or yard playtime would not suffice to keep this breed content and in good health. It is crucial for ACDs to have a purpose or job to fulfill in order to maintain their overall well-being. On a working farm this need is often naturally fulfilled through herding duties. However, in other living environments, it is essential to engage the ACD in regular runs with its owner, preferably on a daily or near-daily basis, as this serves as an excellent outlet for its energy. Participating in dog sports, such as obedience or agility is another highly recommended option. These activities provide opportunities for the ACD and their owner to work together channeling the breed's drive and abundant energy in an enjoyable and fulfilling manner.

Training

	Early socialization and obedience training are absolutely crucial for the Australian Cattle Dog. This breed is known for its exceptional intelligence and remarkable energy levels, and they truly thrive when given a purposeful job to perform. Consequently, it is highly recommended to continue training and engage in activities such as obedience, herding, or agility with the ACD. While this commitment may require a substantial amount of time from the owner, it serves to strengthen the bond between owner and dog, and both parties can find it enjoyable. It's important to keep in mind that an intelligent and energetic dog, if not provided with sufficient mental and physical stimulation, can easily become bored. And when boredom sets in, the ACD's energy can turn into destructive behavior. Therefore, it is vital to keep the Australian Cattle Dog occupied and mentally stimulated to ensure their happiness and prevent any potential.

Nutrition

	The Australian Cattle Dog generally thrives on a diet of high-quality dog food whether it is commercially produced or prepared at home under the supervision and approval of a veterinarian. It is important to select a diet that is suitable for the dog's specific life stage, whether it is a puppy, adult, or senior. As an active and athletic breed it is crucial to ensure that the dog receives nutrition that meets its energetic requirements. It is advisable to become acquainted with safe human foods for dogs and be aware of which foods are potentially harmful. If there are any concerns regarding the dog's weight or diet, consulting a veterinarian is highly recommended. Lastly, it is essential to always provide the Australian Cattle Dog with clean and fresh water available at all times.

Historiography

The Australian Cattle Dog has played a significant role in the development of Australia's beef industry which is a crucial component of the country's economy. The settlement history of Australia by the British is a complex and sometimes contentious subject that we won't delve into fully. However, in the early 1800s Anglo-Australians began migrating from coastal settlements to the vast grasslands of the inland which were ideal for raising beef cattle. To establish successful cattle ranches in these wild areas skilled herding dogs were essential.

Initially British imports of a breed called the Smithfield were used as cattle dogs. However, these dogs were not well-suited to the harsh climate, rugged terrain, and long distances to market in their new Australian home. Thus stockmen embarked on a lengthy trial-and-error process to develop a herding dog capable of meeting the challenges of the Australian interior. To create the desired hardworking and resilient herders Smithfields were crossed with Dingoes a feral breed introduced to Australia by its earliest human inhabitants. Other breeds such as Scottish Highland Collies were also brought into the mix. One significant contributor to this breeding effort was George Elliot from Queensland who crossed Dingoes with Collies and sold the resulting puppies to farmers. These dogs were close to becoming the archetype of the Australian herder.

The final step toward perfection came when two brothers, Jack and Harry Bagust, introduced Dalmatians into the breeding line by crossing them with Elliot's Australian Cattle Dogs. The Dalmatians' loyalty, protectiveness, and ease around horses, combined with the original breed's working ability (which was further reinforced by incorporating the Black and Tan Kelpie another sheepdog breed) resulted in the Australian Cattle Dog we know today. The Australian Cattle Dog was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1980 and became one of the founding members of the AKC Herding Group when it was established in 1983.