Information concerning the look, tempermant and history of the Australian Cattle Dog.
The Australian Cattle Dog's origins arise from a purposeful breeding program, the purpose of which was to develop a hearty, sturdy, fearless dog that could effectively work cattle, and be able to work in all weathers in all climates; particularly in the heat of Australia.
The name "Australian Cattle Dog" is the breed name accepted by the American Kennel Club ("AKC"). However, these dogs are also called Blue or Red Heelers, and Queensland Heelers. The "Blue" or "Red" indicates the color of the dog; i.e., dogs with a black, white and gray coat are considered blues and dogs with a brown and white coat are considered reds. Many blues are technically "Blue Merles", meaning they have the all over blue coat, with red markings on the inner legs, spots on the chest and a red undercoat. Interestingly, Australian Cattle Dogs are born pure white, or mostly white with black spots, and develop their blue or red as they get older, a throwback to the Dalmation in their heritage.
The description of reds and blues refers to the breed standard, and those registered with the AKC fall under these categories and are called Australian Cattle Dogs. Heelers, be it red or blue, or Queensland Heelers, are technically the same breed, but are not recognized by the AKC, and their coats can vary a great deal. Generally, however, be it a Cattle Dog or Heeler their coats are "red" or "blue".
The Australian Cattle Dog known today came from the distillation of the desired qualities of three other breeds: the Dalmation (for loyalty and love of horses), the Kelpie (for herding), and the Dingo, an Australian wild pack animal that still roams free in Australia today. The result is a stout, sturdy and nearly fearless dog that works cattle with ease. In fact, some Australian Cattle Dogs cannot work with sheep because they are too rough, and can damage valuable stock because they bite the legs of the stock as they work them.
Incredibly intelligent, these dogs are purpose-built working animals, and as such are not necessarily easy pets to have in the home. They require mental as well as physical stimulation of some kind on a daily basis, or they will find a way to amuse themselves.
Cattle dogs range in size from 13-17 inches at the shoulder, and weigh anywhere from 30lbs to 60lbs. Their coat, a flat double coat, is relatively water-proof and easy to maintain. The AKC requires that their tails not be docked, but non-registered ones are frequently docked. There are arguments on both sides; proponents of docking feel it saves the dogs from having their tails stepped on by cattle, and those opposed claim that the dogs need their tails in order to steer and balance, and that removing the tail impairs their agility and maneuverability.
All in all, the Australian Cattle Dog, Blue or Red Heeler or Queensland Heeler, however you want to call it, is an outstanding herding animal which performs extremely well in difficult terrain under unpleasant conditions. They are an excellent ranching tool and are loyal and affectionate to their masters.
