Australian Cattle Dog
Description
The Australian Cattle Dog also known as the Heeler, is a tough, hardworking dog who can cover immense distances. A one-person dog Australian Cattle Dog is rather aloof with strangers. To his owner Australian Cattle Dog is eternally loyal, gentle, alert and can easily be trained. Puppies are born all-white with coat coloring appearing a few weeks after birth.
Size of Male: Height: 18-20 inches Weight: 35-50 pounds
Size of Female: Height: 17-19 inches Weight: 30-45 pounds
Temperament
A working, herding breed, the Australian Cattle Dog is not suited to life alone in the backyard. One of the most intelligent breeds, Australian Cattle Dog can become easily bored, leading to serious behavior problems. Australian Cattle Dogs need to be part of the action! They are loyal, protective and alert, making an excellent guard dog. They are also brave and trustworthy making them very good in the obedience ring, herding as well as agility. Firm training from the start and lots of daily attention will produce a fine and happy pet. It is absolutely loyal and obedient to its owner, but it is something of a one-person dog. They are sometimes suspicious of people and dogs they don’t know. It can be very dog aggressive, for its dominance level is high. The Australian Cattle dog is not good with children except for family members it has known since puppyhood. Some tend to nip at people’s heels in an attempt to herd them. If you are buying a pet, avoid strictly working lines, as these dogs may be too active and intense for home life. Australian Cattle Dogs are very easy to train. Puppies are born white (inherited from the early Dalmatian crosses), but the adult color can be seen in the paw pads.
Living Conditions
Not recommended for apartment life and does best with at least a large yard. Since the Australian Cattle Dog is an outdoor and working dog, it requires a large space and lots of exercise. Also working dogs are generally prone to outdoor activities and if you are not confident enough that you will be able to provide them with such it is probably better to choose a breed that suits you better and exercise needs can be met by playing in the apartment.
Upkeep
The Australian Cattle Dog was bred to be active and tireless. The Australian Cattle Dog needs a lot of physical and mental activity, more than a simple walk on a leash can provide. A good jog or long workout, coupled with obedience lessons or other intellectual challenges, is essential to Australian Cattle Dog every day. It is happiest when it has a job to perform, and especially when that job is herding. This is due to the freedom it has when herding and the feeling of being able to run freely with some thinking how it can gather the animals during herding that makes it a good job for the Australian cattle dog. The Australian cattle dog can live outdoors in temperate to cool climates. It is unsuited for apartment life. Its coat needs brushing or combing weekly to remove dead hairs.
Health
Major concerns: Hip Dysplasia, Osteochondrosis Dissecans, deafness, Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Minor concerns: Patellar luxation
Life expectancy: 10 – 13 years