The Australian Cattle Dog Breed

The Australian Cattle Dog belongs to the Herding group and is a good pet for anyone who wants a furry friend for obedence training. Coming from Australia where they were bred to herd cattle in the 19th century, this dog is highly intelligent and hard working but needs a task to do so must be kept busy. This brave and loyal pet makes a good guard dog.

The Australian Cattle Dog might have health problems like any purebred dog. Typical problems include deafness, PRA, hip displaysia.

The Australian Cattle Dog is easy to train as this one of the most intelligent breeds. They are great candidates for agility training. Since they have been bred to herd, early training is a must to prevent your dog from trying to herd anyone who comes into your house . This dog needs lots of exercise or he will probably exhibit behavioral problems. This is more of an one person dog - loyal to his master but can be suspicious of strangers and exhibit dominating behavior to other dogs. He will get along with children he is raised with but is not good with new children introduced once he is an adult.

The Australian Cattle Dog sheds twice a year. Grooming for this breed is easy, just brush with a firm brush and bathe when needed.

The Australian Cattle Dog has a short double coat that comes in red speckled or blue speckled sometimes with black, tan or blue markings. According to breed standards, this breed is 17 to 20 inches and weighs in at 32 to 35 pounds. The Australian Cattle Dog, sometimes called the Blue Heeler or Australian Heeler is a powerful compact dog that is also very agile. He has a broad head with somewhat pointed ears that stand straight and dark oval eyes. With adequate care, the Australian Cattle Dog can live to be 15 years.