AUSTRALIAN CATTLE DOG Breed Standards
Early Australian settlers needed a dog that could survive in the harsh outback conditions, and much experimentation was conducted before the Australian Cattle Dog as we know it emerged. The Australian Cattle Dog originated from dogs that were brought from London, known as Smithfields. Smithfields were good enough herders, but not equipped for the difficult conditions of the Australian outback. Robert Kaleski, a native Australian, is credited with the development of the Australian Cattle Dog.
A breeder by the name of George Elliot attempted to create the ideal outback dog by breeding a Smithfield with an Australian Dingo. Unfortunately, these dogs could not be trusted as it was discovered that they would kill calves when they were not under the supervision of their handlers. In 1840, Thomas Hall imported a couple of Blue Smooth Highland Collies, whose offspring were bred with the Dingo. These dogs were known as Hall's Heelers, but were still not
SKILLS: The Australian Cattle Dog, also known as Heeler, Queensland Heeler., Hall's Heeler, is a sturdy, compact working dog, well-muscled, powerful, yet very agile. Cattle driver and family pet.
SIZE: The shoulder-height is 46 – 51cm (18 – 20 in) for dogs and 43 – 48cm (17 – 18 ¾ in) for bitches.
COAT: The outer layer of the coat is weather-resistant, short and fairly rough; the under-layer is short and thick. Two colors are permitted: the fist is blue, by which is meant plain blue, blue speckled with and without black, and blue with tan markings. The other color is described as speckled red, which may include dark speckled red markings on the head.{ The coat of the Australian Cattle Dog does not require much attention. An occasional grooming with brush or comb is sufficient.
CARE REQUIRED: The Australian Cattle Dog is very intelligent dog which is eager to learn and ready to work. This means that training is easy. You will be unfair to it if you do not work with it. Agility skill trials are an ideal activity, but the dog will equally enjoy playing catch, chasing after Frisbees, or any other sports. Provided you keep it intensively active this dog will prove a joy to you. On the other hand, a bored Australian Cattle Dog will be a major and serious problem.
CHARACTER: This breed’s behavior towards its own kind, other pets, and children is a perfect example for other dogs. This model behavior can only be achieved, though, if the dog is adequately socialized when very young.
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: Brave and trustworthy. Very good in the obedience ring and in herding and agility. Firm training from the start and lot of daily attention will produce a fine and happy pet. It is absolutely loyal and obedient to its master, but it is something of a one-person dog. They are sometimes suspicious of people and dogs they don't know. It can be very dog aggressive, for its dominance level is high. Not good with children except for family members it has known since puppyhood. Some tend to nip at people's heels in an attempt to herd them. If you are buying a pet, avoid strictly working lines, as these dogs may be too active and intense for home life. Australian Cattle Dogs are very easy to train. Puppies are born white (inherited from the early Dalmatian crosses), but the adult color can be seen in the paw pads.
EXERCISE: This breed needs lots of exercise and plenty to occupy it to keep it in good physical and mental health, and in top condition. If you are seeking a family dog that won’t require much from you, forget this breed.
