• Hungarian Language
  • English Language

Australian Cattle Dog Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Australian Cattle Dog so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Pastoral / Herding Dogs
Popularity Rank56
Reviews4
User Ratings
Compare the Australian Cattle Dog With Other Dogs
Select at least one dog breed to make the comparsion.
 
 
Australian Cattle Dog dog profile picture
OriginAustralia flagAustralia
Other Names
What other names does the Australian Cattle Dog have?
Blue HeelerCattle DogRed HeelerQueensland Heeler
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Photo Gallery of the Australian Cattle Dog Breed

Australian Cattle Dog Size and Weight

Size
Is an Australian Cattle Dog small, medium or large dog?

How big do Australian Cattle Dog get?

What is the average size of an Australian Cattle Dog?

Medium
Weight
How much does the Australian Cattle Dog weigh? How much should an Australian Cattle Dog weight? What is the normal weight of an Australian Cattle Dog? How much does a full-grown Australian Cattle Dog weight?
30-62 pounds (13-28 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of an Australian Cattle Dog?
46 pounds (20.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Australian Cattle Dog? Australian Cattle Dog height:
Male: 17-20 inches (43-51 cm), Female: 17-19 inches (43-48 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of an Australian Cattle Dog?
Male: 18.5 inches (47 cm), Female: 18 inches (45.5 cm)

Australian Cattle Dog Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Australian Cattle Dog puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of an Australian Cattle Dog in the United States? How much money is an Australian Cattle Dog?

Where to buy an Australian Cattle Dog with a good pedigree?

$500-$700
If you choose to purchase the Australian Cattle Dog, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Australian Cattle Dog for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Australian Cattle Dog gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Australian Cattle Dog? How many Australian Cattle Dog are there in the world?
Very frequent: The Australian Cattle Dog is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision.

Australian Cattle Dog Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Australian Cattle Dog? Is the Australian Cattle Dog breed dumb or smart?
Outstanding: Australian Cattle Dog is one of the brightest dog breeds. They desire to learn tricks and commands often. The limit is your creativity. They understand and memorize new commands in fewer than 5 repetitions. This breed obeys the first command 95% of the time or better.

The Australian Cattle Dog is one of the best breeds in the dog intelligence ranking.

Trainability
Are Australian Cattle Dog dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train an Australian Cattle Dog?
Australian Cattle Dog dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly.
Watchdog Ability
Is Australian Cattle Dog good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Australian Cattle Dog dogs are one of the best watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're very consistent in their effort. The best vocal cords and sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're very territorial and protective about their property, so the Australian Cattle Dog dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Australian Cattle Dog dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Australian Cattle Dog dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Australian Cattle Dog can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Australian Cattle Dog will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Australian Cattle Dog Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Australian Cattle Dog have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
EnergeticProtectiveAlertIntelligentResponsiveLoyalAggressive
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Australian Cattle Dog sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Australian Cattle Dog dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is an Australian Cattle Dog a good family dog?
Average: Australian Cattle Dog dogs are average dogs regarding their affection level. Some breeds are forthcoming and friendly, while others are independent and don't bond too closely with their owners.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Blue Heeler need? Australian Cattle Dog social needs:
Australian Cattle Dog dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Australian Cattle Dog to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Australian Cattle Dog roam?
The wanderlust potential of the Australian Cattle Dog is strong enough to escape from home. They have a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Australian Cattle Dog have high prey drive?
Australian Cattle Dog dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. Cats or any other small animals might be in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Australian Cattle Dog dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Australian Cattle Dog Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Australian Cattle Dog is a highly playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Australian Cattle Dog dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Blue Heeler bark?
Low to Average: The Australian Cattle Dog rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Australian Cattle Dog good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have an Australian Cattle Dog in an apartment?
Not an apartment-friendly dog the Australian Cattle Dog breed. If you don't have a garden, think carefully about your decision, keeping Australian Cattle Dog indoors can cause a lot of problems.

Australian Cattle Dog Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Average: Australian Cattle Dog dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can an Australian Cattle Dog be left alone? How long can you leave an Australian Cattle Dog alone?
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Australian Cattle Dog Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Australian Cattle Dog has a hard bite? What is the bite force of an Australian Cattle Dog? How much bite force does an Australian Cattle Dog have? How strong is an Australian Cattle Dog bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Australian Cattle Dog bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Australian Cattle Dog measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of an Australian Cattle Dog is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Australian Cattle Dog bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Australian Cattle Dog bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train an Australian Cattle Dog puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Australian Cattle Dog, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Australian Cattle Dog bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, an Australian Cattle Dog can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do Australian Cattle Dog bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Blue Heeler? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Australian Cattle Dog? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Australian Cattle Dog has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Australian Cattle Dog do?
Australian Cattle Dog dogs have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Australian Cattle Dog dogs need to be taught a good attitude. We have compiled a list of Mouthy Dog Breeds.

Australian Cattle Dog Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Australian Cattle Dog dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
The Australian Cattle Dog is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Australian Cattle Dog breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Australian Cattle Dog breed? Most common health risks of Australian Cattle Dog:
Hip Dysplasia Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)Deafness
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Australian Cattle Dog breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Australian Cattle Dog see the vet?
Average
The Australian Cattle Dog should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Australian Cattle Dog dogs live? How old can a Australian Cattle Dog be? What is the age limit of the Australian Cattle Dog? How many years can the oldest Australian Cattle Dog live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of an Australian Cattle Dog?

How long is the lifespan of an Australian Cattle Dog?

11-15 years
The average lifespan of Australian Cattle Dog: 13 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Prefers average to cold weather conditions
The Australian Cattle Dog can adapt to well to cold weather conditions, some dogs even can be a good mountain dog.

Australian Cattle Dog Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Australian Cattle Dog have? What is the activity level of the Australian Cattle Dog?
Australian Cattle Dog dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does an Australian Cattle Dog need? How much exercise do Australian Cattle Dog dogs require per day?

Do Australian Cattle Dog dogs need a lot of exercises?

Australian Cattle Dog dogs need a lot of exercises. Long walks should be on a daily schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Australian Cattle Dog breed need?
Australian Cattle Dog dogs don't need too much sleep. They are energetic and desire to live active life. If you think naps are overrated, this breed can be the best choice for you.

Australian Cattle Dog Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does an Australian Cattle Dog need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does an Australian Cattle Dog breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Australian Cattle Dog? How much food should I feed my Australian Cattle Dog?
1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Australian Cattle Dog risk for obesity:
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Australian Cattle Dog's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Australian Cattle Dog weight regularly.

Australian Cattle Dog Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Australian Cattle Dog have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
Dense
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Australian Cattle Dog coats?
Red Blue SpeckledMottled
Grooming
How to groom the Australian Cattle Dog and how often? How often should I take my Australian Cattle Dog to the groomer?
Effortless: The Australian Cattle Dog requires minimal grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned sometimes to avoid infections. Australian Cattle Dog is one of the best choices if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Highly recommended for beginners.
Shedding Level
How much do Australian Cattle Dog dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Blue Heeler? Do Australian Cattle Dog dogs shed a lot?
Australian Cattle Dog dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Australian Cattle Dog need a bath? How often should you give an Australian Cattle Dog a bath? Can I bathe my Australian Cattle Dog every day?
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Australian Cattle Dog breed hypoallergenic?
No
Australian Cattle Dog dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The Australian Cattle Dog has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Australian Cattle Dog drool?
The Australian Cattle Dog is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Australian Cattle Dog could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Australian Cattle Dog.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Australian Cattle Dog Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Australian Cattle Dog dogs get along with other pets? Are Australian Cattle Dog dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Australian Cattle Dog dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Australian Cattle Dog temperament with other people:
Australian Cattle Dog dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are Australian Cattle Dog dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Australian Cattle Dog temperament with children:
Australian Cattle Dog dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Australian Cattle Dog dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Australian Cattle Dog breed live with a cat?
Australian Cattle Dog dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Australian Cattle Dog good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Australian Cattle Dog dogs get along with other dogs?
Australian Cattle Dog dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Australian Cattle Dog breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Australian Cattle Dog breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Australian Cattle Dog dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Australian Cattle Dog dogs good office canines? Do Australian Cattle Dog dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Australian Cattle Dog is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Australian Cattle Dog dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Blue Heeler temperament with senior people? Are Australian Cattle Dog dogs good for elderly owners?
Australian Cattle Dogs are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

Australian Cattle Dog As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Australian Cattle Dog be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Australian Cattle Dog is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Australian Cattle Dog be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Australian Cattle Dog be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Australian Cattle Dog is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Australian Cattle Dog be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Australian Cattle Dog is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Australian Cattle Dog be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Australian Cattle Dog is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Australian Cattle Dog be a boat dog?

Not really

Australian Cattle Dog breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Australian Cattle Dog be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Australian Cattle Dog is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Australian Cattle Dog dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Australian Cattle Dog Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is an Australian Cattle Dog pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Australian Cattle Dog breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Australian Cattle Dog: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Australian Cattle Dog have in a litter? How many puppies can the Australian Cattle Dog breed have for the first time? How many puppies does an Australian Cattle Dog have? How many puppies can an Australian Cattle Dog give birth to?
1-7 puppies, average 5

Australian Cattle Dog Recognition

AKC Group
Is Australian Cattle Dog recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1980 as a Herding breed.
FCI Group
Is Australian Cattle Dog recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Sheepdogs and Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs) group, in the Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs) section.
Breed Recognition
What kennel clubs and organizations recognize or register the Australian Cattle Dog breed?
American Canine RegistryAmerican Kennel ClubAmerica's Pet RegistryCanadian Kennel ClubDog Registry of America Inc.Federation Cynologique InternationaleKennel Club of Great BritainNorth American Purebred Registry, Inc.American Canine Association, Inc.Australian National Kennel CouncilContinental Kennel ClubNational Kennel ClubNew Zealand Kennel ClubUnited Kennel Club

Australian Cattle Dog Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligent Rank: Outstanding: Australian Cattle Dog is one of the brightest dog breeds.
  • Trainability: Australian Cattle Dog dogs are easy to train.
  • Grooming: Effortless: The Australian Cattle Dog requires minimal grooming.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Australian Cattle Dog is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Watchdog Ability: Australian Cattle Dog dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Child Friendly: Australian Cattle Dog dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Australian Cattle Dogs are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Australian Cattle Dog dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: Australian Cattle Dog dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Friendly: Not an apartment-friendly dog the Australian Cattle Dog breed.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Australian Cattle Dog's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Mouthiness: Australian Cattle Dog dogs have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: The wanderlust potential of the Australian Cattle Dog is strong enough to escape from home.
  • Office Friendly: Australian Cattle Dog is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Australian Cattle Dog History

The Australian Cattle Dog, as its name suggests, is indigenous to Australia. In the early 19th century, when the Anglo-Australian settlers started to migrate from the initial coastal settlements to the vast grasslands of the western inland. This was considered to be the prime territory for raising beef cattle. During the process of creating the large cattle on huge ranches, eventually, farmers needed good, reliable herding dogs, to help them out.

The first cattle dogs in Australia were British imports like the Old English Sheepdog and the Smithfield. The Smithfield was unsuited to the rough terrain, the high temperature, and to the vast distances between the market and the ranches. Records from these early pioneers document the loss of many cattle in transit to the market due to the lack of control by their herding dogs. These distances were usually hundreds of miles long over rough terrain, which was too demanding for the Old World breeds. Thus, a long process of trial and error type of breeding begun, with the intention of breeding a herding breed, that could meet the requirements the Australian terrain posed. So, the Smithfield were crossed with the Dingoes and with Scottish Highland Collied as breeders worked their way to the hardworking and durable herding breed, they sought after. In the mid-19th century, some ranchers experimented by cross-breeding the native Dingo with the blue-merle drover’s dog.

Surprisingly, the result was an intelligent, and very capable dog, who was naturally tenacious enough to deal with the beef cattle. These dogs became known as the Blue Heelers. They were especially popular in Queensland, where the dogs were called Queensland Heelers. A man named Robert Kaleske, in 1883 took up the breeding of Blue Heelers and started to present them at local and national dog shows. He also drew up a breed standard, which was accepted, basing the breed on the Dingo, believing that the Dingo was its ancestor. In 1903, the Kennel Club of New South Wales approved the standard. The key contributor breeder was George Elliot, from Queensland, who bred Dingoes with Collies and sold the puppies to ranchers, spreading the word. Later, towards the middle of the 20th century, two brothers, named Harry and Jack Bagust, in the United States perfected the breed. They were crossing the Australian Cattle Dog made by Mr. Elliot with Dalmatians, with the Kelpie, and some with the German Shepherd. Thanks to the Dalmatian’s natural protectiveness, loyalty, and ease with horses, mixed with the initial breed’s working capabilities was the right combination in order to produce the final Australian Cattle Dog, we know today.

Despite the breed’s long history, because of the constant breeding processes, it was not until 1980 that the AKC (American Kennel Club) recognized the Australian Cattle Dog. The UKC (United Kennel Club) followed in 1985 with the registration. In the early days of the Australian economy, the Australian Cattle Dog made indispensable contributions to the growth of the continent’s beef industry. Today, the breed is still employed on ranches all around the world. However, many enjoy them simply as family companions, including the Hollywood stars like Owen Wilson, Steve Earle, and Matthew McConaughey.

Latest Australian Cattle Dog Compares

Rate The Australian Cattle Dog Breed

Australian Cattle Dog Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • isabel

    Feb 22, 2021, 4:25:04 PM:

  • Beckett

    Jul 21, 2020, 9:56:26 PM:

    I loved Kylie (Blue Heeler/Austrailian Shepherd mix), but she was TERRIBLE with strangers and other dogs. Be aware that this breed could have issues with meeting other dogs on walks.

  • Mark McGinnis

    Jul 6, 2020, 1:19:52 PM:

    Bought this "mutt" at a junkyard for 50 dollars. Find out later my "mutt" is a Australian Cattle dog. Almost 17 and still going strong besides a little arthritis.