| AKC Group: | Herding |
| A.K.A.: | Blue Heeler, Velcro Dogs, Australian Heeler, Red Heeler Queensland Heeler, Hall |
| Functions: | Cattle Herder, Competition |
| Year of Origin: | 1800s |
| Country of Origin: | Australia |
| Life Span (yr): | 12 - 16 |
| Colors: | Red speckled, Blue, Blue speckled, Blue mottled |
| Height (Inch): | 17 - 20 |
| Weight (lb): | 30 - 35 |
| Size: | Medium |
| Hair Length: | Short |
| Energy: |  |
| Playfulness: | |
| Ease of Training: | |
| Exercise Needed: | |
| Self Protection: |  |
| Grooming: | |
| Shedding: | |
| Watch Dog: | |
| Living Area: | |
Appearance:
The Australian Cattle Dog is easily distinguished by his strong head that is well-proportioned with the rest of his body. He has a powerful jaw and muzzle, as well. His brown eyes are medium in size and oval in shape. They have an alert and intelligent expression; however, they may also show skepticism if a stranger approaches. His ears are also mid-sized and can prick if alerted. He has a smooth coat that has a thick undercoat, perfect to keep him warm in cold, wet weather. The tail of the Australian Cattle Dog is most useful to him – it can be used as a rudder if he is swimming in a river or lake, or a prod if he is herding farm animals.
Temperament:
The Australian Cattle Dog is a watchful, brave, and loyal breed of dog. He is extremely devoted to his family and to his job. He is protective by nature. Consequently, he finds great joy in guarding his herd or family and his home. As a guard to the cattle, it is not surprising that he is wary of strangers – he must above all protect his flock (or family) from thieves. In addition, the Australian Cattle Dog can be an aggressive breed of dog and he may prefer to stand by his master over other members of the family. He will not do well to be abandoned in the yard. Doing so can impair is psyche and create behavioral issues.
Health:
Although the Australian Cattle Dog may be agile, quick, and sturdy, he is prone to a few hereditary diseases, as well. Unfortunately, nearly a quarter of the dogs show that they have hearing loss or complete deafness in at least one of their ears. Testing is usually done as a puppy. It is important not to breed those dogs to protect future generations from obtaining the gene that causes the condition. In addition, like so many breeds, the Australian Cattle Dog is predisposed to hip dysplasia, which can cause significant pain in the hips and in severe cases can lead to total immobility. He is also prone to progressive retinal atrophy, a condition of the eye that in certain forms may lead to blindness.
Maintenance:
Since the Australian Cattle Dog has a slick coat that is designed to repel water, it is very simple to groom and to maintain. He only needs to be brushed with a firm bristled brush. If he develops a doggy odor, bathe him. Otherwise, wipe him down with a towel that is damp with water or use a dry shampoo. Exercise is important to the Australian Cattle Dog. If he does not get ample opportunity to stretch his legs, he could quickly ruin home furnishings or destroy his bed or toys. In addition, a quick jaunt in the yard is not enough for him. He should be taken on lengthy walks every day and even a jog, when his owner has the energy for it.