Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler breed
![]() | Breed:Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler Breed Group:Herding Weight:35-45 lbs Height:male: 18-20; female: 17-19 inches Color:Blue or blue-mottled with or without other markings, also red speckled. Puppies are born white but in a couple of weeks get their color. RATING: Size:2 Grooming Requirements:2 Exercise Requirements:2 Good with other dogs:4 Watch ability:5 Visits:808 |
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Coat:
The Australian Cattle Dog has a weather resistant double coat. The outer coat is flat, hard, straight and close to the body, while the under coat is dense and short. The color of the coat varies from blue, red speckle, blue speckle or blue-mottled. The blue coat has markings of black, blue or tan. Puppies are born white, but in order to find out which will be the adult coat color you can look at the pads of the paws. This breed is a seasonal shedder.
Overview:
The Australian Cattle Dog originated in Australia during the 19th century and was mainly bred for endurance and herding abilities. Also known as Blue Heeler, Red Heeler, and Queensland Heeler, this breed is considered to be one of the three most popular dog breeds in Australia.
Charcater:
The Australian Cattle Dog is a strong and agile dog. The traits of character that set this dog apart from other dog breeds are trustworthiness, courage and devotion. A member of the working and herding group, the Australian Cattle Dog is a combination of substance, balance, power, and hard muscular condition.
Temperament:
The Australian Cattle Dog is an intelligent, loyal and affectionate breed, that is quite protective of their family, home and territory. They love to interact with humans and due to the fact that they can easily get bored they require large amounts of exercise. Unfortunately, this breed doesn't get along well with children they have not been raised with and with small pets and cats. Also, they are suspicious of strangers and may be aggressive to dogs they do not know.
Care:
The Australian Cattle Dog needs weekly brushing with a firm bristle brush. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary using a mild shampoo. Extra attention should be given to the coat during seasonal shedding. This breed is prone to such health issues as deafness and hip dysplasia.
Training:
The Australian Cattle Dog needs intense socialization from an early age. Like any other dog, the Australian Cattle Dogs doesn't respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. This breed is extremely obedient. However, training must be done with firmness, fairness, consistency and patience. They are good at herding, retrieving, guarding, competitive obedience and in learning tricks.
Activity:
The Australian Cattle Dog requires a lot of exercise. Unless this breed is sufficiently stimulated they will become destructive. They are not recommended for apartment or city dwelling and do best in a rural setting or in a home with a large securely fenced yard.
Ownership:
Before purchasing the Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler you should understand as much about this dog breed as possible. You should begin your research by reading the breed information above.
