The Australian Cattle Dog, also known as the Blue Heeler, is a highly energetic and intelligent breed renowned for its herding prowess. Developed in Australia in the 19th century, these dogs were bred to handle livestock over vast distances, showcasing incredible stamina and agility. With their strong work ethic and loyal nature, Australian Cattle Dogs make excellent companions for active families and individuals alike. In this blog, we’ll explore their unique characteristics, training needs, and tips for ensuring a happy and healthy life for this remarkable breed.
The origin of many dog breeds is a mystery lost in the mists of time. Some breeds claim ancient heritage based on type or geographic distribution or ancient writings, but few old breeds can confidently be traced back to particular ancestors.
The Australian Cattle Dog
Modern breeds are a different story. In some cases, man set out to build a breed to do a specific job in specific terrain and blended several breeds to get the appropriate characteristics that could be perpetuated generation after generation. Standards for these breeds place working ability above appearance and often allow for wide ranges in size, color, and coat type as long as the dog is capable of doing the work that needs doing.
Ranchers began with British shepherd dogs called Smithfields that were brought to Australia by colonists in the 1800s. The Smithfield was big, black, and bobtailed and had a long rough coat. When the wide open spaces of the country’s interior were opened to cattlemen and the animals were turned loose to forage on thousands of acres of unfenced land, it quickly became obvious that dogs accustomed to working on British farms and city streets didn’t have the fortitude or technique to deal with semi-wild cattle in hostile territory. Not only did the Smithfield dogs lack the skill to work untamed livestock, their barking frightened the animals into stampeding.
The breed standard
The Australian Cattle Dog is a muscular, short-coated medium-sized breed with a serious work ethic and the substance, power, balance, and overall athleticism for herding livestock or running an agility course. He is suspicious of strangers and loyal to his owner, qualities that make him a good guard dog as well.
Males are 18-20 inches at the shoulders; females 17-19 inches. Weight is 35-50 pounds with bitches lighter than males.
The ACD skull is broad, the cheeks are muscular, and the muzzle deep and powerful. Teeth meet in a scissors bite, eyes are dark brown ovals with an alert, intelligent expression and a hint of suspicion. The body is muscular; the feet round with hard pads and short, strong nails; the tail is set low and hangs with a slight curve.
The ACD coat is weather resistant with a short dense undercoat and a moderately short, straight outer coat. The tail is bushy.
The coat color is unlike any other breed. The blue ACD may have black, blue, or tan markings on the head and tan markings on the legs, chest, throat, the inside of the thighs, and outside of the hind legs below the hocks. Tan undercoat is allowed as long as it does not show through the blue outercoat. Black on the body is acceptable but not desirable.
The red ACD should be evenly speckled all over the body with darker red markings on the head. Red body patches are allowed but not desired.
The Cattle Dog as pet
The Cattle Dog is a bold, clever, active canine with a mind of his own. Generally affectionate with children he grows up with, he can nonetheless take it upon himself to herd them around by nipping at their heels. He can be tough with other dogs, reluctant to listen to commands from someone he does not respect, and destructive if left to his own devices.
According to Chris Walkowicz in Choosing a Dog for Dummies, Cattle Dogs are “… strong-willed and confident and need owners who can take charge. About the time of puberty, they begin to challenge other dogs as well as people. Early and continuous socialization and training helps them learn that people, fortunately, are the top dogs.”
Health matters
The ACD is susceptible to hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, glaucoma, lens luxation, hypothyroidism, skin lesions, liver abnormalities, poorly developed kneecaps, osteochondritis dissicans, and occasionally deafness.
Hip dysplasia can range from mild to severe with crippling arthritis a common outcome. Because it is an inherited abnormality, the Australian Cattle Dog Club of America encourages all breeders to certify their breeding stock with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals as the best method of limiting the occurrence of this joint malformation in offspring.
Progressive retinal atrophy is a serious inherited condition, so breeders are also encouraged to take their dogs for annual eye checkups. PRA causes changes in the retina that begin with night blindness and progress to total blindness. There is no effective treatment. ACDs are subject to two types of PRA, and research has produced a genetic test for one of the two.
Lens luxation occurs when the eye lens is displaced. It is a painful disorder that can cause loss of vision if the lens is not removed.
Glaucoma involves increased pressure in the eye. It can be inherited and can cause blindness.
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not function properly. It causes coat and skin problems but can usually be controlled with medication.
Osteochondritis dissicans, also known as OCD, is a skeletal disorder involving defective cartilage and potential damage to bony surfaces in the joint. It occurs in fast-growing medium to large breeds and is triggered by a combination of genetic predisposition and over-feeding (or feeding a diet that is too high in energy for the dog). OCD causes lameness and may require surgery to remove damaged or fragmented cartilage.
The Australian Cattle Dog is a dynamic and loyal companion that thrives in active environments. With the right training, socialization, and care, these dogs can be incredible family members and dedicated working partners. Whether you’re considering adding one to your home or simply want to learn more about this remarkable breed, we’d love to hear your thoughts! Let us know in the comments below your experiences or any questions you might have about Australian Cattle Dogs.
PFrequently Asked Questions
What is the temperament of an Australian Cattle Dog?
Australian Cattle Dogs are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and high energy levels. They are protective of their families and can be reserved around strangers.
Are Australian Cattle Dogs good with children?
Yes, with proper socialization and training, they can be great with children. However, supervision is essential, especially with younger kids, due to their herding instinct.
How difficult are Australian Cattle Dogs to train?
Australian Cattle Dogs are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Consistent, positive reinforcement techniques work best with this breed.
