|
|
Australian Cattle Dog
The
Australian Cattle Dog has a great stamina and endurance. They
are a picture of strength and agility, with intense watchful eyes. They belong
to the pastoral group and are used for cattle-herding as a companion and seen
in the show-ring. The Australian Cattle Dog is known as the Australian Heeler,
Hall's Heeler, Queensland Heeler and the Blue Heeler. They are also compact
and symmetrical and should look well-muscled, with a double coat. The undercoat
is smooth, short and dense; the outer coat is hard, straight and weather-resistant.
They move freely and tirelessly with powerful drive from the hindquarters and
are capable of quick and sudden actions.
Temperament
Australian Cattle Dog is not suited to life alone in the backyard. One of the
most intelligent breeds, it can become easily bored leading to serious behavior
problems. They are loyal, protective, and an excellent guard dog. They are also
very good in the obedience ring and in herding and agility.
Size Category
Medium
Height/Weight
Height: Male 17-20 inches (43-51cm) Female 17-19 inches (43-48cm)
Weight: Male 32-35 pounds (15-16kg) Female 30-35 pounds (14-16kg)
Living Conditions
They are not recommended for apartment life and do best with at least a large
yard with a job to do too.
Exercise and Activities
They have incredible stamina and will enjoy all the activity you can give them.
Exercise is of supreme importance because they can easily get bored and destructive.
Life Expectancy
12-15 years
Grooming
The short-haired, weather-resistant coat needs little care and is very
easy to groom. Just comb and brush with a firm bristled brush, and bathe only
when necessary. This breed tends to shed their coats once or twice per year.
Health Problems
They are prone to hip dysplasia, PRA, and deafness.
Origin
The Australian Cattle Dog is the outcome of a deliberate breeding program. Various
dogs with specific abilities were crossbred over a period of 60 years. During
the 1830's a collie type dog was crossed with the native wild Dingo. The result
was a dog called Timmon's Biters that barked less and was better at driving
the herds. In the 1840's 2 blue-merle smooth coated collies were crossed with
the Dingo and the best of the resulting litter.
|
|
|
Click here to subscribe to our newsletter for FREE!
Thank you for visiting FamousDogBreeds.com!
