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Australian Cattle Dog
Characteristics, History, and Health

Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog, also known as the Blue Heeler, Queensland Heeler, or simply Cattle Dog, is a robust, agile, and intelligent breed with a deep-rooted history in herding. The Australian Cattle Dog was developed during the 19th century in Australia for driving cattle over long distances across rough terrain. Early settlers had initially used the Smithfield breed, but these dogs could not handle the harsh environment. The settlers bred a series of dogs to suit their needs, leading to the creation of the Australian Cattle Dog. The breed is believed to be a result of selective breeding involving dogs such as the Dingo-blue merle Collie crosses, Dalmatians, and Black and Tan Kelpies.

Main Info
Origin
Australia
Alternate Names
Blue Heeler, Queensland Heeler, Cattle Dog
Life Expectancy
12-16 years
Average Male Height
18-20 inches
Average Female Height
17-19 inches
Average Male Weight
35-50 pounds
Average Female Weight
35-50 pounds
Coat Length
Short
Coat Type
Double, Smooth
Coat Colors
Blue, Blue Mottled, Blue Speckled, Red Speckled, Red Mottled
Coat Pattern
Tan Markings, Black & Tan Markings, Red Markings

Genetic Predispositions and Health

Australian Cattle Dogs can be affected by neurological conditions such as degenerative myelopathy and eye disorders such as progressive rod-cone degeneration. Genetic testing for conditions such as cystinuria type II-A, myotonia congenita, late-onset neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL-12), and neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis 5 (NCL-5) and 8 (NCL-8) can assist veterinarians with diagnosis and proactive care, as well as help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs.

Personality and Behavior

The Australian Cattle Dog is known for its intelligence, energy, and independent spirit. They are extremely loyal to their owners and can be protective, making them good watchdogs. They have a natural instinct to herd and will sometimes attempt to herd other pets or even their owners.

These dogs are very active and require plenty of physical exercise as well as mental stimulation. They excel in activities such as obedience, agility, and herding trials4. If not provided with adequate exercise and stimulation, they can become bored and potentially destructive. Australian Cattle Dogs can be reserved with strangers and early socialization is crucial. It helps them develop into well-rounded dogs, comfortable with different environments, and people.

Fun Facts

The Australian Cattle Dog was accepted by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1980, and has since become a popular breed.

The Australian Cattle Dog has a history of adding to the success of Australia's beef industry, a benefit that continues to this day.

The breed is known for its affinity for obedience and agility work.

References

https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/breed/australian-cattle-dog?page=0 https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/dog-breeds/australian-cattle-dog https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/australian-cattle-dog/

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