Australian Cattle Dog
Herding Group
Height at Shoulders
Females 17-19 in, Males 18-20 in
Weight
35-50 lbs
Life Expectancy
12-16 yrs
History
The Australian Cattle Dog originated in Australia in the 19th century. As Anglo-Australians migrated to the western inland, ranchers sought a cattle-herding breed that could stand up to the harsh conditions. The breed that they brought with them, Smithfields, could not stand up to the heat, terrain, or long distances they needed to be able to travel. Breeders eventually bred Smithfields with wild dingos; the addition of Scottish Highland Collies, Dalmatians, and Black and Tan Kelpies was what created the modern Australian Cattle Dog.
Breed Characteristics
While not all Australian Cattle Dogs share the exact same personality and temperament, there are certain generalizations that can be made about the breed. In addition to genetics, a dog’s environment, training, socialization, and many other factors all contribute to their personality and behavior.
Intelligence
Affection Towards Family
Friendliness Towards Strangers
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
Exercise Needs
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★☆☆☆
★★★★☆
★★★★★
Energy Level
Sensitivity
Noise Level
Prey Drive
Shedding
★★★★★
★★★★☆
★★☆☆☆
★★★★☆
★★★☆☆
Intelligence
★★★★★
Affection Towards Family
★★★★★
Friendliness Towards Strangers
★★☆☆☆
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
★★★★☆
Exercise Needs
★★★★★
Energy Level
★★★★★
Sensitivity
★★★★☆
Noise Level
★★☆☆☆
Prey Drive
★★★★☆
Shedding
★★★☆☆
Common Traits
Intelligent and independent- the breed was ranked 10th in obedience command trainability in Stanley Coren's The Intelligence of Dogs
Usually bond closely with one person and will not want to separate from them
Prone to nipping, even when playing
Very high energy and may become destructive if bored
While they're generally friendly, they are protective of family and can be wary of strangers
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