Australian Cattle Dog

LoyalAlertIntelligentWary of strangersHigh energy

The Australian Cattle Dog is a wiry, alert herding dog built for long days of work. At home he is devoted to his family but often reserved with strangers, and he tends to pick one person as his favorite. With children he does well when raised with them and taught to respect the dog's space, though he may try to herd a running child by nipping at heels. He can be wary of unfamiliar dogs and is best introduced to other pets early and carefully.

Day to day, he needs a job as much as a walk. Mental work such as training games, scent work, fetch with a purpose, or agility keeps him settled. Without it he can become bored and invent his own projects, which may include chewing or digging. He is a clever, quick learner who responds well to consistent, positive training from the start.

Good for: Active owners who want a working partner

Size	medium
Height	17–20 in
Life span	13 - 15 years
Exercise	about 120 min a day
Shedding	moderate
Origin	Australia

Before you choose a Australian Cattle Dog

He needs far more daily exercise and mental stimulation than most families expect, or he will find his own outlets.

Living with a Australian Cattle Dog

Exercise

Expect at least two hours of vigorous activity a day, split between a run or hard walk and mental work like training or puzzle games. A fenced yard alone is not enough.

Grooming

His short double coat sheds year-round and heavily during seasonal changes. Brush weekly, more often while shedding, and bathe only when needed.

Health

Can be prone to progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia, and deafness, particularly in dogs with extensive white coloring. Ask your vet about screening and eye and hearing checks.

Progressive retinal atrophy
Hip dysplasia
Deafness

Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.

Questions owners ask

Do Australian Cattle Dogs shed a lot?

They shed year-round with heavier seasonal bursts. Weekly brushing, and daily during shedding season, keeps loose hair under control.

Can an Australian Cattle Dog live in an apartment?

It can work if his exercise and mental needs are fully met with daily runs, training, and games. A lazy apartment routine usually leads to boredom and problem behavior.

Are Australian Cattle Dogs good with kids?

They can be very good with children they grow up with, especially when taught not to herd by nipping. Supervise young kids, since he may be wary of strangers.