Australian Cattle Dogs 101, Originally Called the Heeler Which Wild Dog is This Breed's Cousin?

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Large Breed Medium Breed Hip Dysplasia Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) Deafness Australian Cattle Dog

Is the Australian Cattle dog good for you?

  • 1 Australian Cattle Dogs require specific training during puppyhood and must be socialized early.
  • 2 They are the perfect breed for someone looking for an energetic companion.

HISTORY

Believed to have been developed in the middle of 19th century in Australia, this breed of dog was bred to herd the cattle in the rough inland terrains of the country. The bloodline of this breed of dog can traced to a mix of Collie imports from Scotland, wild Australian Dingoes, Australian Kelpies, Dalmatians, and Bull Terriers. Initially this breed was known to as the Australian Heeler. The Australian Cattle Dog is also referred to as the Blue Heeler, Queensland Heeler, and Queensland Blue Heeler.

Quick Facts

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    Size

    Medium, Large

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    Lifespan

    Average 12 - 15 years, but may live much longer

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    Hair Length

    Medium

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    Male Height

    18 - 20 inches

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    Male Weight

    35 - 50 pounds

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    Female Height

    17 - 19 inches

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    Female Weight

    25 - 50 pounds

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    Litter Size

    1 - 7 puppies, average of 5 puppies

Personality

The Australian Cattle Dog can be destructive if not properly socialized and trained from a young age. Since this breed of dog has such an abundance of energy, they should be engaged in some productive work or they might become destructive. Daily exercise is a must to divert some their energy..

Color

Red or blue, and some display both colors at the same time.

Health Concerns

The Australian Cattle Dog is prone to diseases such as:

Appearance

The Australian Cattle Dog has a slightly rounded, broad head, somewhat pointed pricked ears, longer body with a curved tail reaching almost to the hock. They have a double, weather-resistant coat, which comes in blue, blue mottled, or blue speckled, with or without black, blue, or tan markings on head. The outer coat is short and straight, and the undercoat is short and dense. Normally, an adult Australian Cattle Dog will grow up to a height of 17โ€“20 inches, and weigh around 40โ€“45 pounds.

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