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Height:
18 to 20 inches (male); 17 to 19 inches (female).
Size:
Medium.
Weight:
40 to 65 pounds.
Availability:
May take some effort to find.
History:
The Australian Cattle Dog was developed by pioneer settlers in 19th century
Australia to herd cattle on large ranches. Dogs the settlers brought with
them from Europe were not able to handle the long distances and inhospitable
climate of the new continent. So ranchers began experimenting with new
crosses. The Australian Cattle Dog was primarily derived from a mix of
blue merle Collie imports from Scotland and wild Australian Dingoes. Australian
Kelpie, Dalmatian and Bull Terrier were also added. The result was an
excellent herding dog who worked the stock quietly yet forcefully, and
had superior stamina well suited to Australia's harsh conditions. The
breed became known as the Queensland Blue Heeler, because it was used
so extensively in Queensland. Robert Kaleski drew up a standard for the
breed in 1893 which was finally approved in Australia in 1903. The Australian
Cattle Dog was fully recognized by the AKC in 1980.
Description:
The Australian Cattle Dog is a sturdy, compact working dog, well-muscled,
powerful, yet very agile. The body is a bit longer than high with a slightly
curved tail reaching approximately to the hock. The front legs should
be perfectly straight when viewed from the front. The head is broad and
slightly rounded, with a slight, but definite stop. The prick ears are
widely set, and moderately pointed. The oval eyes are dark brown. The
teeth should meet in a scissors bite. The weather-resistant, smooth double
coat consists of a short dense undercoat and a short, straight outer coat.
Comes in blue merle or red speckle. Blue color is either blue, blue-mottled,
or blue-speckled with or without black, blue or tan markings on the head,
with tan points. Black markings on the body are not desirable. The red
speckle variety should be evenly speckled all over, even the undercoat.
Notes:
Very good in the obedience ring, and in herding and agility. Firm training
from the start and lots of daily attention will produce a fine and happy
pet. Some tend to nip at people's heels in an attempt to herd them. Beware
of hip dysplasia, PRA and deafness (linked to the blue merle gene). Buy
only from OFA and CERF-certified stock. If you are buying a pet, avoid
strictly working lines as these dogs may be too active and intense for
home life. Puppies are born white (inherited from early Dalmatian crosses),
but the adult color can be seen in the paw pads.
Personality:
A working, herding breed, the Australian Cattle Dog is not suited to life
alone in the backyard. One of the most intelligent breeds; the Australian
Cattle Dog can become easily bored, leading to serious behavior problems.
This dog needs to be part of the action! Loyal, protective, alert. An
excellent guard dog. Brave and trustworthy.
Behavior:
Children: Best with older, considerate children.
Friendliness: Moderately protective.
Trainability: Very easy to train.
Independence: Needs people a lot.
Dominance: High.
Other Pets: May be aggressive with dogs of the same sex; do not trust
with non-canine pets.
Noise: Not a barker.
Grooming and Physical Needs:
Grooming: Very little grooming needed.
Trimming & Stripping: No trimming or stripping needed.
Coat: Short coat.
Shedding: Average shedder.
Exercise: Needs lots of exercise.
Jogging: An excellent jogging companion.
Indoors: Moderately active indoors.
Apartments: Not recommended for apartments.
Outdoor Space: Best with a large yard.
Climate: Does well in most climates.
Owner: Not recommended for novice owners.
Longevity: Moderately long lived (12 to 15 years).
Talents:
retrieving, herding, guarding, agility, competitive obedience, and performing
tricks.
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