Spotlight Breed: Australian Cattle Dog

Our Spotlight Breed of the week is the Australian Cattle Dog! We came up with three words to sum up the ACD: active, intelligent and sturdy!  This breed was originally developed by Australian settlers to handle herds of cattle on expensive ranches.  In fact, they are still used as a herding dog today.  They take pride in having a “job” to do and being a part of the pack.

Australian Cattle Dogs are very loyal and protective of their families.  They pay close attention to outsiders.  Aside from their well-known herding work, they can also participate in canine sports, including obedience, agility and flying disk competitions.  This is not a breed for a novice pet parent!  Australian Cattle Dogs need a lot of attention and strive on mental and physical activity to keep them stimulated.

Some other names for the Australian Cattle Dog include: Australian Heeler, Blue Heeler, Queensland Heeler, or Halls Heeler.  You’re probably wondering…the term “heeler” was given from the fact that the dogs were bred to herd cattle by nipping at their heels!  Their main instincts are to herd, and herd with force, by biting.  With this being said, obedience training is highly suggested!

The size of the Australian Cattle Dog ranges from 17 to 20 inches tall and 30 to 50 pounds.  They have a dense undercoat.  They are not known to shed year-round, but instead “blow” their coat once or twice a year.  Grooming is necessary to keep the Australian Cattle Dog clean and healthy.

We will leave you with one of our favorite quotes about the Australian Cattle Dog.  “I love my vacuum dueling, doorbell dancing, yippy yapping, trash snacking, tissue tearing, sock stealing, leash pulling, critter chasing, bed hogging HEELER.”