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History
The Australian Cattle Dog was developed by pioneer settlers in 19th century Australia to herd cattle on large ranches. Dogs the settlers brought with them from Europe were not able to handle the long distances and inhospitable climate of the new continent. So ranchers began experimenting with new crosses. The Australian Cattle Dog was primarily derived from a mix of blue merle Collie imports from Scotland and wild Australian Dingoes. Australian Kelpie, Dalmatian and Bull Terrier were also added. The result was an excellent herding dog who worked the stock quietly yet forcefully, and had superior stamina well suited to Australia's harsh conditions. The breed became known as the Queensland Blue Heeler, because it was used so extensively in Queensland. Robert Kaleski drew up a standard for the breed in 1893 which was finally approved in Australia in 1903. The Australian Cattle Dog was fully recognized by the AKC in 1980.
Description
The Australian Cattle Dog is a sturdy, compact working dog, well-muscled, powerful, yet very agile. The body is a bit longer than high with a slightly curved tail reaching approximately to the hock. The front legs should be perfectly straight when viewed from the front. The head is broad and slightly rounded, with a slight, but definite stop. The prick ears are widely set, and moderately pointed. The oval eyes are dark brown. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite. The weather-resistant, smooth double coat consists of a short dense undercoat and a short, straight outer coat. Comes in blue merle or red speckle. Blue color is either blue, blue-mottled, or blue-speckled with or without black, blue or tan markings on the head, with tan points. Black markings on the body are not desirable. The red speckle variety should be evenly speckled all over, even the undercoat.
Talents
Retrieving, herding, guarding, agility, competitive obedience, and performing tricks.
Personality
A working, herding breed, the Australian Cattle Dog is not suited to life alone in the backyard. One of the most intelligent breeds; the Australian Cattle Dog can become easily bored, leading to serious behavior problems. This dog needs to be part of the action! Loyal, protective, alert. An excellent guard dog. Brave and trustworthy.
Behavior
Children: Best with older, considerate children.
Friendliness: Moderately protective.
Trainability: Very easy to train.
Independence: Needs people a lot.
Dominance: High.
Other Pets: May be aggressive with dogs of the same sex; do not trust with non-canine pets.
Noise: Not a barker.
Notes
Very good in the obedience ring, and in herding and agility. Firm training from the start and lots of daily attention will produce a fine and happy pet. Some tend to nip at people's heels in an attempt to herd them. Beware of hip dysplasia, PRA and deafness (linked to the blue merle gene). Buy only from OFA and CERF-certified stock. If you are buying a pet, avoid strictly working lines as these dogs may be too active and intense for home life. Puppies are born white (inherited from early Dalmatian crosses), but the adult color can be seen in the paw pads.
Grooming
Grooming: Very little grooming needed.
Trimming & Stripping: No trimming or stripping needed.
Coat: Short coat.
Shedding: Average shedder.
Exercise: Needs lots of exercise.
Jogging: An excellent jogging companion.
Indoors: Moderately active indoors.
Apartments: Not recommended for apartments.
Outdoor Space: Best with a large yard.
Climate: Does well in most climates.
Owner: Not recommended for novice owners.
Longevity: Moderately long lived (12 to 15 years).
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