The Australian Cattle Dog (also known as a Blue or Red Heeler) is a rising star in the canine world. This breed has become increasingly popular over the last decade for his fun and flamboyant personality while being noticed for his dazzlingly unique looks. But there’s than meets the eye with this very unique dog breed.
For many active families, this breed is everything you could ever ask for rolled into one canine package. For dog owners that don’t want an active dog, you’ll likely want to consider another dog breed. Some new Aussie owners quickly find that he is too much to handle, and sadly, many of them end up in rescue shelters.
In this guide, we’ll outline everything you need to know about the breed. From their history and how that affects his personality to his exercise and training needs, you’ll find everything you need to know. Let’s find out if this breed is the perfect fit for you and your family!
Breed Overview
Breed History
The Australian Cattle Dog was bred by Anglo-Australian settlers who traveled from coastal towns inland in the 19th century. There they found the perfect conditions to raise cattle. But their original herding dogs from England, namely the Smithfield dog, was no match for the harsh terrains and extremely hot weather. So, they need to create a sturdy herding dog who would thrive in their new home.
The Smithfield dogs were bred with domesticated Dingoes, who are the wild dogs of the Australian Bush. The Scottish Highland Collie is also thought to make up some of that mix, and they brought top-notch herding skills to the mix. Later on, these dogs were later bred with the Dalmatian. This meant that not only did they possess fab herding skills, but they also now had an affinity for working alongside horses and being protective of their land.
This mix was the new Australian Cattle Dog, and a man named Thomas Hall played a huge part in the breeding process. Their herding technique, like many others, is to nip at the heels of cattle. And this is why he has earned the nickname ‘Hall’s Heelers.’ It is not known when he officially traveled to America. But it was in 1980 that he was accepted into the American Kennel Clubs studbook.
His incredible herding skills, hard-working ethic, and tough tenacity have earned him employment on many ranches across America. Especially in the hotter states where Collies or Australian Shepherds might struggle. But he is also becoming increasingly popular as a family pet with active families.
Temperament
The Australian Cattle Dog is a tough cookie. He has been known to keep working despite being seriously injured. Bred to withstand the excruciatingly hot weather in the Australian Outback, this pooch can handle anything. This makes him a great option for those who love the sun or live in hotter climates where other breeds would melt.
He is a hardworking dog who loves nothing more than a job to do. Without regular jobs to do, you’ll need to find other ways to satisfy his need for work. Leaving him cooped up all day with nothing to do is a recipe for disaster. This is one of the main reasons why so many of them end in rescue shelters.
But there is a silver lining here! Those who can meet his needs will find one of the most fun pooches around. This pup could play for hours on end if you have the time. It also makes him a great exercise partner too. The kids will have neverending hours of fun in the yard. It does take a while for him to warm up to those outside of his human pack. He can be a protective dog of both his family and home.
When it comes to his family, he is affectionate. He is partial to a cuddle in the evening if he is satisfied with his working day. Especially with the human that he sees as his main caregiver. Much like a German Shepherd, he bonds closer to one person rather than the entire family. He is often called a Velcro dog because he needs to have close contact at all times.
Size & Appearance
This breed is a medium-sized dog that weighs between 35 and 50 pounds. He measures between 17 and 20 inches tall, from paw to shoulder. Overall, the breed standard states that he has a symmetrical frame that is compact but sturdy. Just like a true working dog should be. His skull is broad and flat on top, with a proportionate muzzle.
His large triangular-shaped ears are always erect and alert, and their eyes are oval-shaped and of medium size. It’s not uncommon to find a blue heeler with heterochromia, which is a pigmentation change in the eye that creates a single blue eye.His nose is square and fleshy, and his neck is thick and muscular. His tail reaches his hocks and is always carried straight or low. It is also quite bushy, like a fox’s tail.
Coat & Colors
The Australian Cattle Dog has a short and smooth double coat. The undercoat is short and dense, keeping his body warm in the winter and cool in the summer. His overcoat is close, with each hair sitting close to his body, with a stiff texture to repel rain. The hair around his face, ears, and the front of his legs is shorter. Compared to the fur on his underbelly through to the rear of his legs, and around his neck, which is longer. His hair should be between 1 to 1 ½ inches in length.
Many people think that there are two types of Heeler, the Red Heeler, and the Blue Heeler. But they are the same, and both coat colors can have spots. They simply have a different shade of coat. The Blue Heeler is black, gray, and white in color and the Red Heeler is black, brown, and white in color. If you want to show your Australian Cattle Dog in the show ring, the color specifications are strict.
Exercise Requirements
The Australian Cattle Dog is an extremely energetic dog. Let us repeat – this is an extremely energetic dog. Ideally, he should be worked on a ranch or farm all day long. But if not, he needs at least 90 minutes of intense activity to satisfy his working needs. A leisurely stroll around the neighborhood will not hit the spot with this dog. He needs highly impactive exercise to get his heart pumping.
But it doesn’t just stop there. When you are at home with him, he will also need lots of interactive playtime and mental stimulation. Don’t think he will skulk off to the sofa for a snooze! He will require interactive play with you, such as fetch or tug of war games in the yard. And he will also need solo playtime, such as chew sticks or puzzle treat-dispensing toys.
If you do not direct his energy, he will find other things to do, such as digging up flowerbeds, ruining furniture, and shredding sheets. It will also result in problematic behaviors and unruly herding in the home. And with his nipping technique, it does not make for a pleasant family environment. This is why it is so important that you are honest about what you can give him in terms of exercise. And why he is not suited to your average family.
Living Conditions
He is suited to apartment or large home living, but he needs to have access to a yard. This pup is an outdoorsy pooch, and his nostrils crave fresh air and smells. Without access to a yard, he will go stir crazy, and again, become destructive. Because this pup loves to run and herd things, including strangers, visiting yard creatures, and vehicles, his yard must be secured. He is a magnificent escape artist when he wants to be!
The Australian Cattle Dog is great with children and is rather fond of them as he sees them as little members of the pack to look after. But, only if he is raised with them. If he is the resident doggo and you bring a tiny human into his world, he might not respect his new sibling as part of the pack but as a creature to herd. This pup is best placed with a family who already has children so that he will immediately respect them as his elders.
Another factor to consider when it comes to his suitability to live with children and other animals is his predisposition to herd things. Again, going back to his herding technique here, he nips ankles. If he sees the kids or animals as objects to herd, he will nip. And this will result in frustration, unhappiness, and potential injuries. These are all things to consider. But in the right home, they can do very well in a family environment.
Training
Like many excellent working dogs, this breed is very independent. While he is trainable in the herding field, it is hugely to do with his natural instincts rather than his herding education. He is a headstrong dog who needs an even more headstrong master. This breed is not the best choice for first-time dog owners.
His independence means that he will never be fully obedient, and if he thinks he is right, he will go with his gut over your command. It is a great idea to enroll your Australian Cattle Dog into puppy obedience classes. Many people find that a balanced training approach is best for this breed. This breed’s motivation is likely to be toys and balls to play with, so utilize these in your training. Be persistent! Independent dogs will fool you into thinking it isn’t working, but really it is.
He is naturally protective of his family, so it’s super important to socialize him from an early age too. Otherwise, he might become overprotective. Mix him with other dogs in the local doggy park, invite new humans to your home, and expose him to new sights and sounds.
It’s important that you do not allow him to herd people, animals, or objects in the home. If you notice that he is, redirect his attention. It should not be tolerated otherwise it will cause an unhappy family dynamic. Be sure to research how to avoid these behaviors, and get ready to act quickly when he does. Crate training is required for this breed. Look for a crate made with reinforced steel that can contain this energetic breed. Additionally, you need to leash train him as he will not do well off-leash.
Health
The Australian Cattle Dog is a relatively healthy dog that enjoys an averagely long lifespan of 12 to 16 years. This is a fantastic canine lifespan, but you need to keep him healthy and help him get there. Keep up to date with vet checkups and keep him fit and happy with exercise. Feeding him the best quality nutrition that you can afford will also go a long way to keeping him healthy.
He is prone to suffering from certain health concerns more so than others. So, below we have listed the conditions that you need to know about. Although this list isn’t exhaustive, it’s certainly a good place to start.
Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
The breed is prone to both hip and elbow dysplasia. It is usually caused by bones that grow too fast, resulting in uneven joints that grind and wear down. This causes problems with his mobility, and eventually arthritis if left untreated. If you notice that your pup is struggling to exercise, stand up, or is lame in his limbs, it could be a sign of joint dysplasia.
Eye Conditions
The breed is prone to various eye concerns, with progressive retinal atrophy being the most common. This is the deterioration of the retina, which eventually results in complete blindness. Primary lens luxation is also common, and this is the dislocation of the lens, which again results in blindness. Get your pooch to the vet if you notice he is bumping into things.
Deafness
Like many other herding dogs such as the Border Collie or Aussie Shepherd, the Australian Cattle Dog is prone to inherited deafness. Reputable breeders will put their pups through a BAER test, which will indicate whether they are deaf or not. Be sure to ask for the certificates.
Could Pet Insurance Help?
If your pet insurance covers exam fees and your dog needs to be examined, there is a good chance your policy will reimburse those costs based on your policy details. However, if you are a new customer, vet expenses will not be covered until after your policy’s defined waiting periods, so signing up once you have an existing health concern is not going to help this time. Pre-existing conditions are not covered by any current pet insurance plans.
This is why it is a great idea to sign up for apet insurance policywhen your pet is young and relatively healthy to ensure you will be covered when you need it most.
Nutrition
The Australian Cattle Dog is an energetic dog, but he only needs between two and three cups of food a day. This is all dependent on his energy levels and whether he is a working dog. As well as his age and size. Always follow the package instructions to ensure that you do not overfeed him. Being overweight is not a good look for the Heeler, and it isn’t healthy either!
Always feed your pooch a life stage-appropriate food. This is especially true in puppyhood because it will contain all of the nutrients needed for healthy development and growth. Look for a kibble made by a well-known brand that offers high-quality ingredients and a well-balanced diet. When he turns one year old, look to switch him to an adult kibble.
A well-balanced diet includes meat protein, healthy carbs and fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Healthy omega fats can be found in fish, fish oils, and flaxseed, and they will do wonders for his skin, coat, brain function, and overall wellness. For an energetic dog, we suggest feeding him a kibble with a protein content of at least 25%. This will energize him and take care of his hardworking muscles.
Grooming
The Australian Cattle Dog is relatively easy to care for in the grooming department. His short coat is straight and sleek, meaning that it only requires brushing once a week throughout the year. You don’t have to worry about curls and tangles, just a good ol’ brush down to get rid of the dead hair and dust that he’ll collect on his adventures. The best brush for this breed is a soft bristle brush.
During the shedding season, he will shed heavily and blow his coat. This means you’ll have to brush him several times a week to manage his shedding. As well as the bristle brush, we suggest investing in a deshedding tool. This means less hair on your clothes and sofa and more hair on the brush into the bin.
He will only need bathing once every 12 weeks or so, or as and when you think he needs it. He is a relatively clean dog who doesn’t have an odorous smell. Use a natural doggy shampoo that will gently wash his fur and skin. Start bathing early to make it an easy process for your pup.
Brush your pooch’s teeth once a week with doggy-specific toothpaste to freshen his breath and prevent periodontal diseases. If he is an active pooch, his nails will probably wear down naturally. But if you notice them tapping on the floor, they are too long. Clean his ears once a week with a warm damp cloth to remove dirt and bacteria too.
Breeders & Puppy Costs
Australian Cattle Dogs aren’t the most popular breed, but there are many reputable breeders out there. You just need to find them. You may have to travel, and you will probably be placed on a waiting list. But don’t worry, good things come to those who wait! The average price of a puppy from a reputable breeder is around $1,000 and up. If you are looking for a puppy from an award-winning lineage, expect to pay more.
A reputable breeder will talk you through everything you need to know and ask you many questions about your lifestyle. They may even visit your home to ensure that you are a suitable family for this intense breed. Always meet the puppies and their parents, and ask to see the health certificates too. A great place to start is with the AKC’s list of breeders.
Do everything that you can to avoid puppy mills and bad quality breeders. If you find a Heeler at a cheap price, the chances are they are unhealthy, or maybe not even a Heeler at all! Please do your bit to keep their cruel practices out of business. If you get a bad feeling about them, walk away immediately!
An Australian Cattle Dog puppy is not the most expensive of dogs to care for, but like all pets, their ongoing costs are not cheap. You need to set him up with everything he needs, such as crates, beds, collars, and harnesses. You also need to think about the ongoing medical and insurance costs too. Make sure these financial commitments play a part in your final decision.
Rescues & Shelters
Rescuing is another option. And considering just how many of them are out there, it is a great idea. Head out to your local rescue shelters. If you can’t see a Heeler, speak to the staff who might be able to point you in the right direction of one in a nearby shelter. Saving a life and offering a forever home is one of the best feelings, plus it is often much cheaper than buying a puppy.
If you cannot find one in your local shelters, do not fear! Other organizations focus their entire efforts on rehoming dogs from this specific breed. The Australian Cattle Dog Rescue Inc lists contact details by state, and they have lots of additional information.
As Family Pets
- The Australian Cattle Dog is an energetic dog breed.
- They need at least 90 minutes of daily intense activity.
- Without adequate exercise, he will become destructive.
- He is very protective of his family and home.
- This breed often forms a close bond with its main caregiver.
- You can expect lots of fun for the whole family with this breed.
- He doesn’t like to be left alone and is known as a Velcro dog.
- You should own a home with a large secure yard for this pup.
- He can live with children and other animals if he socialized early.
- This breed has a strong prey drive and will chase and herd everything.
- He is an independent dog who needs a strong-willed and experienced dog owner.
Final Thoughts
The Australian Cattle Dog is an awesome breed that is tough to the core. There isn’t anything this dog can’t handle, except being left alone for too long. But when it comes to extreme climates and hard work, this pup will rise to the challenge with a huge grin on his face. He is stubborn and independent, but he makes up for it in charm, affection, companionship, and fun.
As you have read, this breed needs a special kind of family to meet its every need. He is not suited to your average family, and definitely not suited to an inactive family with no dog experience. But if you are a good fit, you are sure to find a best friend in this Australian dude!
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