AHDR | Australian Cattle Dogs

Australian Cattle Dogs (ACDs) are also often referred to as: Heelers, Blue Heelers, Red Heelers, and/pr Queensland Heelers. The Australian Cattle Dog and Australian Shepherd are separate and distinct breeds. ACDs were developed in the mid-to-late 1800's in Australia and some of the breeds used in their development were the Dingo, the Dalmatian, the Bull Terrier and the Australian Kelpie.

The Australian Cattle Dog is a relatively healthy breed that has an average lifespan of twelve to fifteen years. They are a medium sized, short-haired muscular dog that stands 17 to 20 inches at the shoulders. Their weight range is usually between 30 and 50 pounds. The Australian Cattle Dog comes in two colors: blue or red.

Australian Cattle Dogs are born white with whatever face and/or body patches they will have in later life. As ACD pups age, their blue or red coloring gradually emerges. The correct Australian Cattle Dog coat is what is known as a "double coat". The short, straight outer coat is relatively harsh in nature, while the undercoat is short and dense. Australian Cattle Dogs are not year-round shedders; they shed the dense undercoat one to two times a year for a week or two at a time. Although ACDs are born with tails, the tail is often docked, especially in ACDs working on ranches.

The Australian Cattle Dog is often reserved with strangers and protective when they perceive that their property and/or persons are being threatened. The ACD is intelligent, but is often described as hard-headed and stubborn. Australian Cattle Dog are often referred to by their owners as "velcro" or dogs because of their string desire to go everywhere with their people.

The Australian Cattle Dog is a very active breed, who needs lots of mental stimulation. The ACD was bred to work with people – therefor they have a strong desire to go everywhere with their special person. Because the Australian Cattle Dog is an active breed, a firm commitment must be made to exercise, especially when young. Obedience training is also highly recommended because of their intelligence and sometimes stubborn natures. Because of their intelligence and athleticism, ACDs are also excellent dogs for flyball, agility and frisbee competitions.