The Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog is one tough K9. It was developed in the 1800's by breeding existing cattle dogs with wild dogs (dingos) in order to produce a dog that was robust enough to guard and herd cattle in the hot dry and harsh terrain of Australia. The climate and wild cattle at the time presented a challenge that could not be met by existing herding dogs but after development, this dog proved itself capable.

Origin	Australia
Original Use	Cattle herding
Use Today	Cattle herding, companion
Temperament	It is a hardy, independent, and tenacious dog. It is alert and watchful making it the perfect cattle guard or herding dog. It has enough energy to herd and be on the go all day. If properly reared, it will be very loyal, responsive and obedient.
Acceptance of:	Other Dogs - Average
	Other Pets - Poor
	Strangers - Poor
	Children - Good with children if raised with them.
Watchdog Ability	Excellent
Guard dog Ability	Good
Ease of Training	Excellent
Living Conditions	Can live outside in moderate to cool climates. Not suitable of indoor living.
Exercise	Requires lots of daily physical exercise. Benefits from daily mental stimulation as well. Exercise requirements can be met by herding.
Coat	Has a short two layered coat. Both layers are quite dense. The outer layer is smooth, lying close to the body. It is water resistant.
Grooming	Brush when needed - once a week or less.
Colors	Blue or tan, may have white markings.
Height and Weight	Ideal weight is 35 to 45 pounds (-- to ---kg) while the ideal height is 17 to 20 inches (43 to 51 cm). Variations may occur in individual animals.
Life Expectancy	11 to 13 years.
Group	The AKC places the Australian Cattle dog in the herding group.

Are you looking for dog gifts for your Australian Cattle dog?

Use the Google search box below to find more information on the Australian Shepherd

Return to the Herding Dogs Page

This Site Powered by Site Build It!