Australian Cattle Dog

Blue Heeler, Queensland Heeler, ACD, Hall's Heeler
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The Australian Cattle Dog is a herding breed from Australia known for its intelligence and tireless work ethic. They are medium-sized, muscular dogs with short coats, and require a lot of exercise and consistent training.

Origin and Purpose

  • Developed in Australia for herding cattle over long distances on harsh terrain. It is a working dog known for its intelligence, loyalty, and tireless work ethic.

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female43-48 cm (17-19 inches)16-20 kg (35-45 pounds)
Male46-51 cm (18-20 inches)16-20 kg (35-45 pounds)

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • Blue
  • Blue Mottled
  • Red Speckled
  • Red Mottled
Type
  • Double coat
Length
  • Short

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Moderate
Grooming
  • Low
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Strong, broad, slightly curved
Skull
  • Slightly curved between the ears
Ears
  • Moderately small, pricked, set wide apart
Eyes
  • Oval-shaped, dark, with an alert expression
Nose
  • Black
Muzzle
  • Medium length, strong, well-defined
Teeth
  • Strong and evenly spaced with a scissor bite
Neck
  • Muscular, of medium length
Forequarters
  • Muscular and well-developed
Fore Legs
  • Straight, strong, and parallel when viewed from the front
Hindquarters
  • Broad, strong, and muscular
Hind Legs
  • Parallel when viewed from behind
Feet
  • Small, round, with well-arched toes
Tail
  • Set low, reaching to the hock, and can be carried in a slight curve when in action
Gait
  • Flexible, smooth, and tireless

Temperament

  • Intelligent, loyal, courageous, and hardworking. Can be reserved with strangers and protective of family.

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • High
Good with Children
  • Moderate
Good with Dogs
  • Moderate
Good with Cats
  • Moderate
Openness to Strangers
  • Reserved
Playfulness Level
  • High
Protective Nature
  • High
Adaptability Level
  • Moderate

Working Roles

  • Herding, cattle work, agility, obedience, guarding, police work

Exercise Needs

  • High

Health

  • Generally healthy, prone to deafness, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia

Additional Notes

  • Requires consistent training and mental stimulation. Best suited to active families or owners. Known to nip at heels.

References