AUSTRALIAN CATTLE DOG
Breed Group: Herding
For full breed standards, visit UK Kennel Club or American Kennel Club
Average height: 43 - 51 cms (17 - 20 in)
Average Weight: 16 - 22.5 kgs (35 - 50 lbs)
Coat Length: Short
Life Span: 12 - 16 years
Colours: Blue, Blue Mottled, Blue Speckled, Red Speckled, Red Mottled
HISTORY
The Australian Cattle Dog was originally used to herd cattle. Both this breed and the Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog are two recognized breeds originating from the Hall's Heeler, developed by Thomas Simpson Hall in New South Wales. Hall, a pioneering cattleman, needed a dog suited for managing large cattle runs. The Hall’s Heeler, a cross between colonial dogs and the Australian Dingo, included both long- and short-tailed pups. In the late 1870s, cattle dog enthusiasts began showcasing these breeds, with Robert Kaleski creating a breed standard in 1903, sparking controversy. He also propagated myths about the breeds' origins and possibly discriminated against short-tailed dogs. This led to the near extinction of short-tailed cattle dogs until the Stumpy Tail Redevelopment Scheme in 1988. The evolution of cattle farming, the end of long-distance droving, and the rise of pet ownership and show standards have influenced the temperament of both cattle dog breeds.
L.E.G.S.
Using the L.E.G.S.® model, our breed descriptions offer insights into typical behavior based on Genetics, Learning, Environment, and Self.
Knowing the sort of 'job' a breed was created for can offer valuable insights into the type of life dogs of that breed would most enjoy. But bear in mind, they are all individuals, treat the following as an indication of breed tendencies – not a prediction.
Shedding
minimal <> considerable
Grooming
minimal <> likely to need professional grooming
Barking
relatively quiet <> very vocal
Predatory behaviour around other pets/livestock
low<>high
Response to strangers
happy to greet everyone <> very wary
Affectionate with family
not at all<>very cuddly
Playful
serious<>very playful
Focus on handler (bond)
independent thinker<>very biddable
Excitable/Impulsive
very calm<>easily aroused
Motivated
laid back<>obsessive
Easy to care for
suitable for inexperienced<>challenging
Exercise needs
minimal<>hours daily
Off-lead exercise needs
happy on lead<>needs plenty of freedom
Enrichment needs
basic<>needs challenges
WHY YOU'LL FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR AUSTRALIAN CATTLE DOG
Because of their loyal nature, intelligence and their sleek good looks. Cattle dogs are versatile, love to go anywhere with you and are always up for an adventure! They love their family and are affectionate.
WHY THEY MAY BE HARD TO LIVE WITH
They need a lot of free exercise daily, and they need a job and a challenge to do, otherwise they will likely put their herding drive into the wrong activities. They also have a tendency to be suspicious of strangers and have a high prey drive for cats and small mammals.
YOU MAY NEED PROFESSIONAL HELP WITH:
- On-leash reactivity
- Chasing small prey
- Reactivity towards strangers, aggression towards other dogs
- Noise sensitivity
YOUR RELATIONSHIP SURVIVAL KEY
- Meet their needs every day and establish trust as well as a good communication system early on.
- Cattle dogs respond well to gentle but firm boundaries and thrive with someone who will tell them what they need to do. Without that structure they struggle.
UPBRINGING
The cattle dog thrives with structure and a solid routine. Treat them with kindness and respect. They make look tough but they are actually very sensitive therefore they thrive in environments where someone is willing to teach them what is expected of them without using any force. They require at least one hour of exercise a day, preferably off leash. They need things that challenge their brains on a daily basis as well as a purpose in life. You don't need to get back yard sheep, but they thrive in activities such as agility, rally-obedience or scent work. They also benefit from being taught how to relax and settle in the house, and given a structure that allows them to relax indoors so that life is much more enjoyable.
LIFESTYLE
Australian Cattle Dogs require someone with an active lifestyle – someone who is outdoorsy and who likes to try out dog sports is ideal. They will thrive in a active home. Generally, if raised with them, they can live with kids and cats. Like many herding dogs, they like to be busy and to micromanage situations. They are is sensitive, loyal and very affectionate with his family, and generally aloof with strangers.
INTERESTS & HOBBIES
They love active and interactive events including obedience, scent work, protection work, herding, and triebball. These dogs thrive on physically and mentally challenging activities (whether their owners provide them or not).
EDUCATION
The Cattle Dog needs a solid education starting early. They thrive when someone spends time communicating with them and incorporates them into the full daily routine, letting them know where they fit in and what is coming up next. They learn very quickly, with a few repetitions, anything you want to teach them.
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