Australian Cattle Dogs

Australian Cattle Dogs

Known by the name Blue or Red Heelers, the Australian Cattle dogs are a breed of canine that belongs to the Herding breed group. It was first developed in Australia in the middle to late 1800s for a single purpose – to develop a dog that has the capability to endure and withstand the challenges brought by the harsh conditions of Australia. The ones who made all the effort to breed the Australian Cattle dogs are generally stockmen.

How the Australian Cattle Dogs Appear?

On the most basic, the Australian Cattle dogs appear in medium size. They are muscular with a height of about 17 to 20 inches and weighs around 30 to 50 pounds. In terms of color, the Australian Cattle dogs generally come in two shades: blue and red.

Speaking of colors, it is interesting to know that when the Australian Cattle dogs are born, they appear white in color. The patches on their faces and body later appear as they grow older, and as they age, they turn blue and red in color. Isn't it unique?

The Australian Cattle dogs boast a double coat. The first layer of its coat comes with short and straight hairs that grow to be protective in nature. The undercoat, on the other hand, appears to be so dense, short and kinky and they offer additional protection from whatever harm there is in the environment. This double coat is said to be weather resistant, the reason that the Australian Cattle dogs are employed significantly to guard herds of cattle in the Australian fields. Note also that the coat of the Australian Cattle dogs shed seasonally.

Character and Temperament

Developed to withstand the wears and tears of harsh conditions in Australia, the Australian Cattle dogs were born with a sense of toughness. They are alert, strong, compact and lively. They are also courageous and honor masters with devotion. They are even trustworthy and know how to do their duties in the right way, provided that they are trained properly. This is basically the reason that the Australian cattle dogs are considered as a member of the herding or working canine family.

White those attributes are enough for you to say that the Australian Cattle breeds are perfect watchdogs or guard dogs; they are not good as a family pet. They do not make good companion for kids, and they are suspicious of people or animals that are strangers to them. They also have a high degree of dominance, making them not ideal for the novice dog lovers.