Australian Cattle Dog
Breed Summary
The Australian cattle dog is sturdy, compact, and solid on its feet. This breed has a strong head and slightly curved, broad skull. Their cheeks are muscular, and the muzzle and jaws powerful in appearance. Their medium-sized, pricked ears, suspicious glint and strong teeth give the cattle dog a slightly intimidating demeanor. 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. This breed has a combination of substance, power, balance, and hard muscular condition which gives them an impression of great agility, strength, and endurance.
Country of Origin: Australia
AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 55 of 196
AKC Classification: Foundation Stock Service
UKC Classification: Herding Dog
Exercise Requirements: >40 minutes/day
Height: Female: 18 inches; Male: 19 inches
Weight: Female: 35-45 lbs; Male: 35-45 lbs.
Physical traits: Strong, Compact, Sturdy
Coat: Length: Short
Characteristics: Double coat, straight
Colors: Blue or blue-mottled with or without other markings, red speckled
Overall Grooming Needs: Moderate
Personality traits/Temperament: Alert, Curious, Pleasant
Energy Level: Very energetic
Tendency to Drool: Low
Tendency to Snore: Low
Tendency to Bark: Low
Tendency to Dig: Low
Social/Attention Needs: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Health
The Australian Cattle Dog is a healthy breed with above-average life expectancy. They can develop certain health conditions like deafness, progressive retinal atrophy, which causes vision loss; and hip dysplasia. The breeder should check the hips and eyes before breeding. Their ears need to be checked regularly to remove foreign matter and avoid a buildup of wax, as well as their teeth, should be brushed regularly.
Nutrition
Australian Cattle Dogs are very athletic canines and require good nutrition to meet his needs. The diets can be commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian’s supervision and approval to fulfill the requirements. Add a high quality multivitamin to complete the nutritional circle. Any diet should include ingredients according to a different dog’s stage (puppy, adult, or senior). Don’t give human food, which is not safe for them. Consult with your veterinarian if any problems arise.
Training
Early socialization and obedience training required for the Australian Cattle Dog. They are a highly intelligent, smart, and energetic breed that is only thrilled when on the job. This can represent an enormous time commitment by the owner, but participation together fosters a bond between you and your dog, and it’s fun for both of you. They can easily get bored or become destructive if proper training can’t be given.
Exercise
As a proactive, high-energy dog, the Australian Cattle Dog requires more than just a quick walk and playtime in the yard. They really need a job in order to remain happy and live healthily. They are developed and plays the role of herding dog. They happily go with his owner for routine work like running, walking to burn his energy. This breed takes part in canine activities such as obedience or agility, and different dog sports that channel the breed’s drive and abundant energy in a fun way. Use paw balm to protect their feet
Fun Fact
All of their puppies are born white. They start getting colorful quickly and you can see their pattern strongly by six weeks.
