Australian Cattle Dog
Group 5: Working
Height:
Male: 46 – 51 cm
Female: 43 – 48 cm
Energy Level: High
Original Function: Working
Lifespan: 12 – 14 yrs
Recommended: As a working dog, or for active people & families.
About This Breed
During The 1830s selective breeding was done, with the Blue Merle Collie, Dalmatian, Old English Sheepdog, Australian Kelpie, Smithfield and the native Dingo. Over the years the breed progressed to the Australian Cattle Dog we have today.
The results are a rugged powerful working dog, that is ready, willing and able to drive cattle vast distances under harsh, hot, dusty conditions. Both its guarding and herding instincts are very strong and may extend them to people and other pets. They are very loyal and obedient and can be very much a one-person dog. They may also feel that they need to establish dominance over other dogs.
General Characteristics
Appearance: Medium sized, strong body. Head broad, ears are pricked, tail long and coated. The general appearance is that of a strong compact, symmetrically built working dog, with the ability and willingness to carry out his allotted task however arduous. Its combination of substance, power, balance and hard muscular condition must convey the impression of great agility, strength and endurance.
Temperament: Loyal, courageous, diligent.
Characteristics: As the name implies the dog’s prime function, & 1 in which he has no peer, is the control & movement of cattle in both wide open & confined areas. Always alert, extremely intelligent, watchful, courageous & trustworthy, with an implicit devotion to duty making it an ideal dog.
Colour: Blue-Mottling, Speckling or Tan permitted. Red Speckle with or without Red markings.
Coat: Straight Hard Dense Outer coat with a thick undercoat.
Grooming: Minimum care is needed for their coarse, shorthaired, weather-resistant coat. A brush and a bath when necessary.
Exercise: These dogs have incredible stamina and enjoy whatever activity you can give them. Without exercise and things to do they become bored and destructive.
Health: Extremely hardy, some may suffer from hereditary deafness and some eye problems.