Australian Cattle Dog

Other names: ACD, Cattle Dog, Blue Heeler, Red Heeler, Queensland Heeler

Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog (ACD) is a breed of herding dog native to Australia. It was originally bred for its ability to drive cattle across the vast plains of the Australian continent but is now more commonly seen as a companion pet. The ACD is said to be one of the most intelligent dogs of all. 

Key facts about the Australian Cattle Dog

Life expectancy :

8

20

13

15

Temperament :

Playful Intelligent

Size :

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Origins and history

The Australian Cattle Dog first arrived in the UK from Australia in 1980. Its popularity gave rise to an influx of the breed from countries other than down under. The breed was soon recognised by the Kennel Club and its popularity as a pet has steadily risen ever since. 

FCI breed nomenclature

FCI Group

Group 1 - Sheepdogs and Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs)

Section

Section 2 : Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs)

Physical characteristics of the Australian Cattle Dog

  • Australian Cattle Dog
    Australian Cattle Dog
  • Australian Cattle Dog
    Australian Cattle Dog
  • Australian Cattle Dog
    Australian Cattle Dog
  • Australian Cattle Dog
    Australian Cattle Dog
  • Australian Cattle Dog
    Australian Cattle Dog

    Adult size

    Female : Between 17 and 19 in

    Male : Between 18 and 20 in

    Weight

    Female : Between 44 and 66 lb

    Male : Between 44 and 66 lb

    Coat colour

    Type of coat

    Eye colour

    Brown

    Description

    A sturdy and muscular dog of great agility; the powerful muzzle and strong haunches belie a gentleness of character. The ears are medium sized and pricked.

    Good to know

    This breed has been popular among famous dog-parents, including Matthew McConaughey and Mel Gibson.

    Temperament

    • 66%

      Affectionate

      The Australian Cattle Dog is extremely affectionate and forms a very close bond with its owner. 

    • 100%

      Playful

      The ACD is playful with people it knows although it may try to herd and dominate.

    • 33%

      Calm

      The Australian Cattle Dog is not a nervous dog and does not easily scare. 

    • 100%

      Intelligent

      The ACD’s exceptional intelligence lends itself to excellent obedience and responsiveness. 

    • 33%

      Hunter

      Australian Cattle Dogs are herding dogs. They do not have an instinct to track prey but they will enjoy herding other animals and people. 

    • 100%

      Fearful / wary of strangers

      The Australian Cattle Dog is wary of strangers; the dog’s want to protect the family comes to the fore when meeting unfamiliar humans. An owner’s gentle encouragement is required.

    • 33%

      Independent

      This dog is in all respects independent, so much so that it is likely to try to dominate others of the household if it sees a chance to do so.

      Behaviour of the Australian Cattle Dog

      • 33%

        Tolerates solitude

        The Australian Cattle Dog will tolerate solitude but only in small doses. 

      • 33%

        Easy to train / obedience

        A strong-willed animal is the Australian Cattle Dog and one that is easy to train. However, being independent the Australian Cattle Dog requires a stronger-willed leader who is confident and consistent. 

      • 33%

        Barking

        This dog is known for its excessive high-pitched barking. 

      • 33%

        Tendency to run away

        Reinforcing the ‘recall’ command is always worthwhile with this dog even though the dog is, on the whole, exceptionally obedient.  

      • 66%

        Destructive

        The Australian Cattle Dog can be destructive if it is stressed or lonely. 

      • 66%

        Greedy / Gluttony

        These dogs lean towards obesity if not exercised enough and fed the wrong kind of food.

      • 100%

        Guard dog

        The alertness of the Australian Cattle Dog makes this breed a worthwhile watchdog. They are exceptionally protective of their owner. 

      • 33%

        First dog

        The ACD needs to be challenged both physically and mentally in order to stay out of trouble. They should be trained by someone who has experience with the needs of a highly intelligent and energetic dog.

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        Lifestyle

        • 33%

          Australian Cattle Dog in a flat

          The happiest Australian Cattle Dogs are those that live in the countryside and are able to roam freely. A flat or small outside garden will not do for this dog. 

        • 100%

          Need for exercise / Sporty

          The Australian Cattle Dog is an active dog that is accustomed to endless solo explorations

        • 66%

          Travelling / easy to transport

          Once trained, Australian Cattle Dogs are comfortable with travelling.

          Compatibility

          • 66%

            Australian Cattle Dog and cats

            The Australian Cattle Dog will tolerate a household cat but only if the dog is taught (and reminded about) how to behave.

          • 66%

            Australian Cattle Dog and dogs

            Australian Cattle Dogs interact well with other dogs but can exhibit dominance. 

          • 100%

            Australian Cattle Dog and children

            This dog is boisterous at times, and due to its size, it is liable to knock over small children. The Australian Cattle Dog will also try to herd children and may nip at them to try to bring them into line. 

          • 33%

            Australian Cattle Dog and the elderly

            The Australian Cattle Dog is a good choice of dog for someone of senior years, as long as it can be sufficiently exercised. 

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            Price

            This breed will cost you between £600 and £800 to buy and between £40 and £80 per month to keep.

            Grooming

            The Australian Cattle Dog has a coat that is very easy to maintain. Occasional brushing is all that is required to keep the coat clean and shiny.  

            Shedding

            The Australian Cattle Dog coat sheds twice throughout the year.  

            Nutrition of the Australian Cattle Dog

            It is always worthwhile to feed an Australian Cattle Dog a high-quality and specially formulated dog food rather than human food. 

            Health of the Australian Cattle Dog

            Life expectancy

            The ACD carries a recessive gene that is known to cause deafness. Selective breeding should prevent deaf offspring. Life expectancy is 11 to 13 years. 

            Strong / robust

            This particular breed is hardy and adventurous.  

            Withstand heat

            The coat of the ACD allows the dog to tolerate hot weather. 

            Withstand cold

            The double coat of the Australian Cattle Dog keeps the dog warm even when it walks in the rain and snow.

            Tendency to put on weight

            Weight gain can be a feature of the Australian Cattle Dog. If your ACD is not exercised as regularly as it should be and is fed too much human or substandard food it will become obese.

            Common illnesses

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