Australian Cattle Dog

Description

The Australian Cattle Dog, also referred to as the Blue or Hall’s Heeler, is a well-liked breed of muscular dog that originated in Australia. It belongs to the Herding breed family which is remarkable for their extraordinary ability to control the movement of other animals. The breed has been developed to become herding and guarding dogs. Their smooth double coat is short and dense underneath. Its colors usually include blue, red speckled, blue-mottled, and blue speckled with or with no markings.

Height and Weight

The male members of the Australian Cattle Dog normally stand a height of 17 to 20 in at the withers, and weigh 32 to 35 lbs. The bitches, on the other hand, commonly have a height of 17 to 19 in, and a weight of 30 to 35 lbs.

Temperament

Australian Cattle Dogs, in general, are a brave and hardworking herding breed. They are loyal, and considered to be one of the most intelligent dog breeds. They are known to be alert, territorial, and rather dominant. Australian Cattle Dogs are fairly affectionate. They are best suited for homes with no children and other animals. Nonetheless, the breed has been found out to be excellent in obedience training as well as agility and herding trials. To make them wonderful and delightful pets, owners have to give them a lot of daily leadership along with vigorous physical and mental exercise. Australian Cattle Dogs are protective; making them reliable guard dogs. Well-balanced types make good and trustworthy companions for children. The breed basically demands plenty of human attention and activity. Inadequate physical and mental stimulation make them destructive.

Grooming

Although Australian Cattle Dogs are quite hard to handle, they are, nonetheless, low-maintenance in terms of the coat care aspect. Weekly combing of their hair will already suffice their grooming needs. Even baths are not mandatory. However, in case you want to give your pet one, make sure that you utilize only mild shampoo.

Health Concerns

Some of the common health complications associated with the breed include deafness, glaucoma, cataracts, and hip dysplasia. Australian Cattle Dogs have an average lifespan of 10 to 13 years.

Best Environment

Although climate rarely becomes an issue for this herding breed, yard space is rather critical. Because Australian Cattle Dogs are hyperactive and usually tireless, apartment-living is not advisable. To make them constantly happy, adequate space has to be provided. In terms of exercise, the breed has to be given daily routines of mental and physical activities. Herding assignments and opportunities to become watchdog posts will definitely make Australian Cattle Dog pets very satisfied. Even sports and some tricks will be great for their exercise regimen.