AUSTRALIAN CATTLE DOG (HEELER)

Temperament: Cautious, Obedient, Loyal, Protective, Brave.
Height: 17 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder
Weight: 30 to 50 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Dog Breed Group: Herding Dogs

MORE ABOUT THIS BREED

The Australian Cattle Dog is an extremely intelligent, active, and sturdy dog breed. Developed by Australian settlers to handle herds of cattle on expansive ranches, they’re still used today as a herding dog. They thrive on having a job to do and on being part of all family activities.
The Australian Cattle Dog is also highly devoted to his owner and family. He usually attaches himself closely to one person and bonds less closely with others. He’s often called a “Velcro” dog because he attaches so firmly; he likes to be in close physical contact with his chosen person all the time.
The Australian Cattle Dog’s coloring is blue or red speckle. Blue or blue-mottled includes black, blue, or tan markings on the head; partially tan on the forelegs, chest, and throat; and tan on the jaw and hind legs.
Because the Australian Cattle Dog was bred to herd, and herd with force, by biting, he is a mouthy dog. His instinct is to nip cattle, children, pets, cars, anything that moves. He has a strong tendency to bite, even in play. This tendency must be properly directed with socialization and training when he’s a puppy, or it can turn into dangerous behavior.

PERSONALITY

The Australian Cattle Dog is an extremely active dog who needs constant mental and physical activity. If he’s bored or lonely, he can be destructive. He’s apt to chew and tear up items he shouldn’t. If you choose to live with an Australian Cattle Dog, be prepared to keep him busy and tired. If he’s tired, he’s less likely to get himself into trouble.

The Australian Cattle Dog is protective of what he considers his territory, and he’ll defend it. He’s also reserved (not necessarily unfriendly) with strangers. But he’s devoted to his owner and family. Once he bonds, he likes to go wherever his owner goes.

He’s smart, but at times he can be willful and stubborn. Consistent, positive training helps control his independent streak.

NUTRITION

Recommended daily amount: 1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level.

HEALTH

Australian Cattle Dogs are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they’re prone to certain health conditions. Not all Australian Cattle Dogs will get any or all of these diseases, but it’s important to be aware of them if you’re considering this breed. If you’re buying a puppy, find a good breeder who will show you health clearances for both your puppy’s parents. 

In Australian Cattle Dogs, you should expect to see health clearances from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) for hip dysplasia (with a score of fair or better), elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and von Willebrand’s disease; from Auburn University for thrombopathia; and from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF) certifying that eyes are normal. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site (offa.org).

CARE

He’s not well suited to living in an apartment or being left alone for long periods of time. He’s destructive when bored, and he tends to chew a lot. He needs a home with a securely fenced yard, or a country farm or ranch.

If you are considering an Australian Cattle Dog, make sure you can provide him a proper outlet for his natural energy and bright mind. This dog loves the activity and challenges associated with sports.

Like any dog, he can become timid if he’s not properly socialized when young. Early socialization helps ensure that your Australian Cattle Dog grows up to be a well-rounded dog. His propensity to mouth, chew, nip, and bite must be handled carefully. He must be taught not to put his mouth on people, only on appropriate chew items, such as sturdy toys.

GROOMING

The Australian Cattle Dog doesn’t require much primping, but some grooming is necessary to keep him clean and healthy. Brush him periodically, say four times a month, to distribute oils and remove dirt. When he sheds, though, brush frequently to remove the dead hair. Bathe him as needed – basically when he’s really dirty or smells bad.
Brush your Australian Cattle Dog’s teeth at least two or three times a week to remove tartar buildup and the bacteria that lurk inside it.
Trim nails once a month if your dog doesn’t wear them down naturally.
His ears should be checked weekly for redness or a bad odor, which can indicate an infection.

Source: dogtime, petfinder.