Photo by Jason Antony

The Australian Cattle dog, originates from Australia, and as you have probably already guessed was developed to herd cattle - hence the name. There is ongoing controversy as to which breeds of dogs were crossed to develop the Australian Cattle Dog, however, most agree that the breed was developed by crossing the following: Dingo (Native Australian Dog), the Dalmatian, the Smooth-Haired Scotch Merle Collie, the Australian Kelpie, and the Bull Terrier.

Controversy aside, the breed was accepted into the AKC, (American Kennel Club) in 1980, and is generally considered an all-around good dog.

The Australian Cattle Dog is an extremely active breed, and as such truly needs lots of daily exercise to remain happy, and healthy. After all, the breed was developed to herd cattle over long distances - it is in the dog's blood to want to be in charge of groups, and to lead the way. This will be very evident to you if you have a group of people over at your home and the dog begins circling, and "directing" everyone as to where they should go. And, it is important to note that an Australian Catlle Dog that is not properly socialized or trained will nip (albeit gently) at the heels of those that do not comply to his directions.

It is recommended that an Australian Cattle Dog should have at least 30 minutes to 1 hour of rigorous daily exercise to keep him/her healthy as well as mentally stimulated. I would not recommend this breed to an apartment dweller, it is preferable to have a home with a secure fenced-in yard for the Australian Cattle Dog to run around and play in. An apartment will feel to small and confining to this breed, and they will not be happy in this environment. I also would not recommend this breed to an inexperienced owner, or to someone that isn't a strong pack leader, as the Australian Cattle Dog can have a very stubborn streak.

Stubbornness aside, the Australian Cattle Dog is extremely trainable, and will excel at obedience commands, sport training and obstacle course training. The best advice I could offer an owner of an Australian Cattle Dog regarding training is to keep it mentally stimulating, and to be a strong, assertive leader. The breed responds extremely well to that approach as his high-level of intelligence craves mental stimulation, and his dominant nature also requires strong leadership.

The Australian Cattle Dog makes for great watchdog, as he is alert and can be fiercely protective of his home, and "pack" (that is You!). This can also make the breed a bit wary of strangers. Proper socializationis recommended so that the dog is more accepting of invited visitors to your home. I would also caution that this breed is sometimes referred to as "velcro-dog" because he/she loves to be by his owners side. If the dog is left alone too much, without any mental stimulation it can lead to destructive behavior and separation anxiety. I would read Dog Chewing, and Dog Separation Anxiety for more details on how to prevent, or stop this behavior.

As for grooming - The Australian Cattle Dog is actually not a year-round shedder. In fact once (sometimes twice) per year the dog sheds very heavily. Otherwise there really is very little shedding, which makes him/her a good choice for allergy sufferers if they can handle the 2x per year. During the normal, non-shedding period, weekly brushing, and bathing 1x every other month is generally all that is needed to keep the dog's coat in great shape. I would also read Dog Grooming 101 for basic grooming instructions on ear cleaning, nail clipping, etc. During the shedding period - you need to just accept the fact that there will be hair EVERYWHERE. And, I mean everywhere. Do your best to keep things clean, and always remember that it will be over soon!

Australian Cattle Dogs do best with older children, as their very active nature could be entirely too much for a small child. As with all breeds supervision is always recommended, as any dog could easily knock down a child accidentally while playing, and children should always be taught the proper, and safe way to play with dogs. Children are generally hurt by dogs because they are handling the animal too roughly, and the dog perceives them as a threat to their own safety. Always keep that in mind.

All in all the Australian Cattle Dog makes for an intelligent, playful, companion. If you have the love, experience and time to devote to this breed I would consider the Australian Cattle Dog.