Australian Cattle Dog

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN Australia
MOST SUITED AS Cattle driver and family pet

SIZE
The shoulder-height is 46 - 51cm (18 - 20 in) for dogs and 43 - 48cm (17 - 18 1/2in) for bitches.

COAT
The outer layer of the coat is weather-resistant, short and fairly rough; the under-layer is short and thick. Two colours are permitted: the first is blue, by which is meant plain blue, but also blue speckled with and without black, and blue with tan markings. The other colour is described as speckled red, which may include dark speckled red markings on the head.

CARE REQUIRED
The coat of the Australian Cattle Dog does not require much attention. An occasional groom­ing with brush or comb is sufficient.

CHARACTER
The Australian Cattle Dog is very intelligent and willing to work, well-balanced, barks little, is loyal to its handler, brave, hardy, alert, opti­mistic, and active.

TRAINING
The Australian Cattle Dog is a very intelligent dog which is eager to learn and ready to work. Training it is therefore 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 fly-ball, or other sports. Provided you keep it intensively active, it will not disappoint you. A bored Australian Cattle Dog will be a major problem and will find ways to amuse itself that will not endear it to you.

SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR
This breed's behaviour towards its own kind, other pets, and children is a perfect example for other dogs. This model behaviour can only be achieved though if the dog is adequately socialized when very young. The are a "heeler" herding by nipping at the heels of the herd, and will exhibit same behaviour towards people if not exercised.

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 with which you do not have to be very active, then forget this breed.