36" dog crate
Right-sized for a medium dog, cozy not cramped.
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Australian Cattle Dog
The tireless blue heeler.
Herding group
Australia
Medium
Lifespan12-16 yr
Weight15-23 kg
Height43-51 cm
OriginAustralia
The Australian Cattle Dog, often called the Blue Heeler, is a tough, tireless herding breed built to drive cattle across vast distances. Intensely loyal and energetic, it needs a serious job to be happy.
Great points
- Incredibly hardy and energetic
- Smart and trainable
- Intensely loyal to its person
- Excels at work and dog sports
Things to consider
- Huge exercise and work needs
- Herds and nips at heels
- Wary of strangers
- Not suited to idle or apartment life
The story
Australian settlers crossed herding dogs with the native dingo to create a dog that could drive cattle over rough, hot country. The result was the rugged, hard-working Cattle Dog, also known as the Blue Heeler.
Training
Cattle Dogs are smart, driven and need a job, so consistent training, plus herding, agility or other work, channels their energy and curbs nipping.
Grooming
The short double coat needs only a weekly brush, with more during seasonal sheds. Low grooming effort overall.
Food & diet
About 1.5 to 2.5 cups of quality food a day, matched to a very active lifestyle.
Exercise
Very high. Hours of activity and mental work daily are needed to satisfy this hard-driving breed.
Health to watch
Generally very hardy and long-lived, but watch for deafness, hip dysplasia and eye conditions.
Fun fact. An Australian Cattle Dog named Bluey was one of the oldest dogs ever recorded, living to 29 years.
Frequently asked questions
Are Australian Cattle Dogs good pets?
For very active, experienced owners, yes. They are loyal and brilliant, but they need so much exercise and work that they overwhelm quiet or first-time homes.
Do Australian Cattle Dogs nip?
They can. As heelers bred to drive cattle by nipping, they may herd people and pets, which training redirects.
How long do Australian Cattle Dogs live?
A long time, commonly 12 to 16 years, and the breed is known for its hardiness.
Essential gear for the Australian Cattle Dog
A few breed-right basics for a new Australian Cattle Dog.
Medium orthopedic bed
Joint support, sized to a medium frame.
View pickGrooming brush
Regular brushing for a healthy coat.
View pickComplete adult formula
Balanced everyday nutrition.
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