The Queensland Heeler
The Australian Cattle Dog is a herding dog that is breed for driving and controlling cattle. They were developed in Australia solely for this purpose, the result of six decades of cross breeding. Today the Australian Cattle Dog, or ACD, is still extremely popular with farmers and ranchers worldwide.
Appearance
Australian Cattle Dogs are a muscular and compact breed. They stand between 17-20 inches and weigh in at 35-45 pounds. Their double coat is weather-resistant and short, and has two varieties, red and blue, giving them the common nicknames of Red or Blue Heeler. These coats are not solid, but rather a “speckled” appearance, caused by a mottling of all the colors in their fur. Other marking can occur, for Blue Heelers they can have black, blue, or tan markings on the head, as well as tan on the legs, breast, throat, and jaws. Red Heelers can have darker read markings on their head, and are preferred to be even. Some Australian Cattle Dogs have a stripe of white hair on their foreheads, similar to a blaze on a horse; this is known as a Bentley Mark.
History
The development of the Australian Cattle Dogs began in the 19th century when Europeans began to settle Australia. A dog known as the Smithfield was brought alongside these pioneers to work their cattle, but they were a bit noisy, and above all did not adapt well to the climate. The Smithfield was crossed with the Dingo, and this cross became known as the Timmins Biters. During this same time the now extinct Old Smooth Collie were also being bred to the Dingo for herding sheep, leading to a mix referred to as the Hall’s Heeler. These two mixes, along with the added blood of the Bull Terrier, Australian Kelpie, and Dalmatian, eventually brought us the Australian Cattle Dog we know today.
Temperament
Australian Cattle Dogs are highly intelligent, full of energy, and known to have a bit of an independent streak. Like most herding dogs, they are highly active both in energy and mind. They need plenty of exercise, and if they do not have a working job to do, can turn destructive. This breed excels at dog sports, and it gives them the stimulation needed to be happy in a non-working environment. In absence of a true charge, such as cattle or sheep they may herd anything from birds, other dogs, or people, even without instruction. This is not an ideal breed for homes with children, and some individual dogs can be nippy. They tend to get along well with other dogs it is familiar with, but can turn aggressive towards unknown animals. By nature the Australian Cattle Dog is wary, which makes it an excellent watchdog.
Health and Care
The Australian Cattle Dogs are generally a healthy breed, and their life expectancy is around 12 years. They are prone to deafness, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, which can lead to blindness, and hip/elbow dysplasia.
Australian Cattle Dogs do not adapt well to apartment life. They need at least a large yard with room to roam, daily walks, and something to stimulate them mental if they are not working dogs. This breed retains many Dingo traits, and will prefer the outdoors, even on a cold night. Some dogs are even known to dig or burrow themselves a den, rather than sleep in their doghouse.
The coat of the Australian Cattle Dog requires little grooming. They should be brushed regularly and shed their coat twice per year.
