Introduction
The Australian Cattle Dog, (also known as the Australian Heeler, Blue Heeler, Queensland Heeler, and the Red Heeler), is a breed of dog in the Herding Group. Australian Cattle Dogs were recognized by the AKC in 1980, and accepted into the AKC in 1999. Today, ACDs remain one of the most popular herding dogs in Australia.
This breed is extremely quick and agile, and their shorter slimmer body size gives them an advantage in competitions and cattle driving. The average cattle dog stands about two feet high, and they weigh on average between 30 – 40 pounds.
Temperament
Australian Cattle Dogs are best described as small bundles of muscle and energy. They have an independent and strong willed nature, and their active minds must be given continual mental stimulation or they can become destructive and aggressive. They play hard and have a tendency to nip because of their cattle driving breed characteristics. they are also cautious towards new people and animals. Early training can help to reduce behavioral and nipping problems, and sturdy fun toys will help to keep them entertained. Pet owners that do not have the time, or space, to handle an extremely high energy, intelligent, dog should not adopt this breed.
Health
They can live over 15 years of age, but their average life expectancy is a little over 11 years of age. They have relatively little health problems, but as they age they can be prone to arthritis and a degenerative eye condition known as progressive retinal atrophy.
History
The history of the Australian Cattle Dog began in Australia in the mid 1800’s when a Dingo was breed with a blue merle Collie. This new breed had superior cattle working and driving skills, but it was then crossed with a Dalmatian to bring faithfulness and a love of horses into the breed. This newer breed was then crossed back with a Black and Tan Kelpie Sheepdog because some of the dog’s working skills were lost with the Dalmatian cross, and the resulting breed created today’s modern Australian Cattle Dog.
Australian Cattle Dog
Quick Facts
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Weight: 30-40 lbs
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Height: 17-20 in
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Coat: Weather-resistant, dense undercoat, short straight outer coat
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Temperament: Independent and strong willed nature
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Lifespan: 11-15 Years