The Australian Cattle Dog, also known as the Australian Heeler, the Blue Heeler, the Queensland Heeler, the Red Heeler and the Hall’s Heeler, was developed in Australia to drive cattle quietly, calmly and patiently on the long trek to the sales market – a task at that time called being a “drover’s dog.” The breed also can skillfully manage goats, horses, and even ducks and geese. The Cattle Dog is best known for its stamina, versatility and intense focus on whatever task is at hand. It is said to have only two speeds: extremely fast, and fast asleep. It also reportedly holds the record for the longest-living dog: 29 years. The Australian Cattle Dog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1980 as a member of its Working Group. The breed was transferred to the Herding Group in 1983.
In the early 1800s, vast grazing lands opened up west of the Sydney metropolitan region in Australia. Cattle ranchers moved their herds to these endlessly rich but unfenced acres, and eventually their previously docile cattle became unruly and almost feral. The imported herding dogs that ranchers had used up until then, most commonly the collie-like, bobtailed Smithfield, were poorly suited to the hot temperature, rough terrain and arduous work to take these cattle to the
Australian Cattle Dogs can be imposing figures. Muscular and serious-looking, this working breed takes protection to a new level. Excellent watch dogs, an Cattle Dog is quick sound an alert that a stranger is approaching. Despite their serious nature, this breed loves to run and play, and craves an active lifestyle and affection, letting him know he's done his job well.This breed is very high energy and should not be confined to an apartment. Leisurely
The Australian Cattle Dog is compact, sturdy, muscular and agile. They are slightly longer than they are high and have a slightly curved tail. Their heads are broad and slightly rounded, with a slight, but definite stop. Their ears are wide set, erect and triangular and their eyes are oval and should always be dark brown. Australian Cattle dogs have long, muscular necks that get broader toward the body. The weather-resistant double coat consists of
The saying goes, “a picture is worth a thousand words”. Check out the many different Australian Cattle Dog Pictures and Australian Cattle Dog images. Get an in depth look at the Australian Cattle Dog and see the many things that this breed has to offer.