Australian Cattle

 Cindy- Lovabledogs.info

 Three Year Vet and Dog lover. Owner of Website: Lovabledogs.info

Australian Cattle
By Cindy- Lovabledogs.info

  Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle is a working, herding breed. The Australian Cattle is not suited to life alone in the backyard. One of the most intelligent breeds, the Australian Cattle can become easily bored, leading to serious behavior problems. The Australian Cattle dogs need to be part of the action. These breed of dogs are loyal, protective and alert. The Australian Cattle dogs make excellent guard dogs. Brave and trustworthy, the Australian Cattle is something of a one-person dog. The Australian Cattle is very good in the obedience ring and in herding and agility. Firm training is needed from the start as well as lots of daily attention to produce a fine and happy dog. The Australian Cattle is absolutely loyal and obedient to its master. The Australian Cattle are sometimes suspicious of people and dogs they don't know. The Australian Cattle can be very aggressive, for its dominance level is high. The Australian Cattle dogs are not good with children except for family members it has known since puppy hood. Some Australian Cattle dogs 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.

The Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle came about as the answer to the need for a herding breed that could endure the heat and the harsh Australian terrain, along with long journeys over expansive grazing lands. Not only did this breed prove to be resilient, it is also capable of effectively driving cattle, without startling them by barking. Its development began when Hall crossbred blue-merle Highland collies with dingo s, the outcome then known as Hall’s heelers, named for their herding style of nipping at the heels of cattle. Further crossbreeding with the Dalmatian, bull terrier dog, and even the kelpie also contributed to the sturdier and more functional composition of the Australian cattle dog.

At certain periods, the breed was also known as the Queensland blue heeler, and then as the Australian heeler. The Australian cattle breeds solid and compact build allows for the agility and quickness required to manage wild cattle.


Australian Cattle Skills
Developed since 1840 to withstand the harsh terrain and climate of Queensland, Australia, the Australian cattle was since valued for its endurance, adaptability to changing weather conditions, and ability to drive cattle in a peaceful manner. Today, the breed is recognized for its aptitude in herding trials, agility, and competitive obedience. It is also adept at retrieving, guarding, and performing stunts or tricks.

Australian Cattle Personality
The Australian cattle is a very intelligent breed, as it needs activities that keep it interested or it will behave poorly and even cause trouble. It can be quite attentive and compliant, as long as it is given adequate mental and physical challenges on a daily basis. The breed is also good as travel partner, though it tries to use its herding practice of nipping on running children. Some lines are bred strictly for working: one of these may be too tough for a family pet.

Australian Cattle Dogs Exercise Needs
A generous amount of physical and mental activity is recommended for the untiring Australian cattle dog. Daily workouts and intellectual training are vital to keeping the happy, as is giving it work to do, though it is still happiest when given a regular opportunity to herd.

Australian Cattle Dogs Living Conditions
This breed mostly lives outside in moderate to cool climates. Apartment life for this breed is almost impossible, as it is better off living in a large yard.

Australian Cattle Dogs Grooming Requirements
All one needs is a firm bristle brush to comb through the short coat weekly, and baths may be given as needed. This breed sheds its coat up to twice a year.

Australian Cattle Dogs Health Issues
The breed is at risk of hip dysplasia, deafness, and PRA.

Cindy  Lovable Dogs.info