Common Traits of Australian Cattle Dogs

Australian cattle dogs are medium-sized herding dogs that are also called Australian heelers, Hall's heelers and blue heelers. This work dog has a history of herding cattle that translates into an intelligent and energetic breed. European settlers in Australia did not have a hardy enough breed of dogs, so Thomas Hall bred highland collies, dingoes and other species to make a strong breed with enough stamina to navigate Queensland while herding livestock. Today, Australian cattle dogs are found worldwide and thrive in large yards, farms and ranches.

  1. Physical Traits

    • Australian cattle dogs tend to be 17 to 20 inches in height and weigh 30 to 35 lbs. Females are slightly smaller than males. The legs are strong and slightly rounded, and the paws have hard pads to ease navigation on rough terrain. The face is slightly broad with erect ears and dark brown eyes. The tail hangs low and curves under the body when relaxed. The Australian cattle dog has a short coat that does not require much maintenance.

    Color

    • Australian cattle dogs have two color schemes: red and blue. All puppies are solid white but soon gain their coloration. The blue Australian cattle dogs can be solid blue or have blue speckles. Their faces are a combination of blue, black and tan with a black mask around one or both eyes. The inner thighs, underbelly, chest and jaw are tan. The red Australian cattle dogs have a red speckle on the fur and undercoat. They can have larger red spots on their faces and bodies.

    Interactions

    • Because the Australian cattle dog is a herding dog, it is protective of its owners and home. Early socialization is important, and the owners need to establish dominance early. They get along with dogs that they consider part of their pack, but strange dogs need to beware. An Australian cattle dog might nip at its owners' heels in an attempt to herd them, which makes untrained Australian cattle dogs a poor choice for families with small children. However, they are easy to train and they are friendly with older children. They are aloof to strangers, but they will relax eventually.

    Temperament

    • Australian cattle dogs tend to be energetic and lively, although well-trained dogs will also be shy and wise. They love to keep busy with jogging, agility trials, fetching, herding and other exercises that require physical and mental exertion. They tend to do well in competitions and make good therapy dogs. They do not bark much, but they have been known to get into trouble when they are not being stimulated enough. The Tennessee Valley Cattle Dog Rescue advises to "always remember, a tired cattle dog is a good cattle dog."