Dog breed · Herding / Pastoral
Australian Cattle Dog
A tough, resourceful herding dog bred to drive cattle across long distances in harsh conditions. Cattle dogs are extremely intelligent and need constant purposeful work to avoid becoming frustrated or destructive.
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Herding / Pastoral
- Origin
- Australia
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 15–22 kg (33–49 lb)
- Height
- 43–51 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Short, dense, weather-resistant double coat
- Temperament
- TenaciousAlertIndependent-mindedDevoted
History
Developed in nineteenth-century Australia by crossing herding dogs with dingoes to produce a hardy dog able to move cattle over rough terrain in extreme heat.
Appearance
A compact, muscular dog with pricked ears and a mottled or speckled blue or red coat.
Exercise and activity
Very high — well over an hour of vigorous activity plus daily training or work; this is one of the least suitable breeds for a sedentary household.
Care and grooming
Coat care is minimal, but the breed's working drive needs a real outlet such as herding trials, agility or structured job-like games.
Health considerations
- Congenital deafness
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Primary lens luxation