Australian Cattle Dog Pups Facts and Health Problems Information

No other dog breed has more nicknames that the Australian Cattle Dog pups. They are known as the Heeler, Red Heeler, Blue Heeler and Queensland Heeler in addition to their official AKC name as the Australian Cattle Dog. They are called heelers because they were bred to be cattle dogs and will control the herd through nipping and biting the heels of the cattle and horses. For this reason, they are also members of the Herding Group.

Australian Cattle Dog Appearance
The ancestors of the Australian Cattle Dog were Collies, Dalmations and Australian Dingos, but the origins of the dog is not known. The Australian Cattle Dog appearance is therefore more muscular than a Border Collie with excellent herding abilities.

The Australian Cattle Dog is a compact dog with strong muscles. It is very powerful and agile, weighing about 32-35 pounds and standing 17-20 inches tall. They are the ideal height and weight for herding animals as well as protecting their families.

Since the breed was created to withstand the extreme temperatures on the Australian outback, these dogs are great with a range of temperatures. In addition, they have the resourcefulness to feed themselves just like a wild dog. For this reason, the Australian Cattle Dog can be seen as a very independent animal. This dog is not necessarily a lapdog that will cuddle and adore you.

Australian Cattle Dog Characteristics
Australian Cattle Dogs are excellent with children and very protective of them. There have been stories of Cattle Dogs saving children from wandering off too far or encountering other dangers. However, because the method that the dogs use to protect – namely, the nipping and biting of heels – can scare small children who will not understand why the dog keeps biting them for seemingly no reason.

These dogs are very alert, watchful and absolutely obedient to their master. They are not good in apartments as they have a lot of energy and will require a lot of exercise. The breed is happiest when it is roaming and do great in a large, open yard. They can be noisy and bark at a change in their environment to alert their master. They can require a lot of playtime. If the dog gets bored, he will typically turn to destructive behavior to keep him entertained. For that reason, a good run or playtime will help to keep him happy and satisfied.

Australian Cattle Dogs are quick to learn and respond very well to positive encouragement. They are very eager to please in general. If you start frequent and consistent training as a puppy, they will become smart, happy and obedient pets.

The Australian Cattle Dog has a double coat that is quite resistant to the elements and helps it during the extreme weather temperatures. The top coat is smooth and requires frequent, regular brushing and grooming.

Australian Cattle Dog Health Problems and Issues
This breed does have some genetic health problems that you need to keep an eye out for, including deafness, progressive retinal atrophy (causing sight problems), hip dysplasia and temperament abnormalities. ADD or Attention Deficient Disorder can be common this breed, which can be difficult on an inexperienced dog owner. However, despite these situations, the owner of an Australian Cattle Dog is a happy and satisfied owner indeed. This dog will follow you wherever you go and become the perfect companion. They are a brave and trustworthy companion that will fit wonderfully into a family or single-person environment.

         

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