Australian Cattle Dog

OVERVIEW OF THE AUSTRALIAN CATTLE DOG

Australian Cattle Dogs, also known as ‘heelers’, are strong and loyal working dogs. These dogs were bred to herd cattle and did so by nipping at their heels (hence the term ‘heeler’). Standing between 17 and 20 inches tall, males are generally a little bigger than females. Their coats have a unique mottled blue or red speckle coloring. Some also have tan markings on the head, foreleg, and chest or a tan undercoat with a blue outer coat.

They are high-energy dogs that need to constantly be busy. If they’re left to become bored, they will entertain themselves by digging up your flower beds or performing a scavenger hunt through the trash.

Since they were bred to herd by nipping, these dogs have an instinctive drive to bite, even just when they play. It is important to train and socialize your pup from an early age to direct this tendency and prevent accidents from happening as he gets older. Get him used to being around people and other dogs, and take him out to busy parks. It is also a good idea to raise your pup with other animals or pets. This will teach him to live peacefully with them in the home.

Australian Cattle Dogs are fascinated by small animals, squirrels and cats, so if he’s not used to having other animals around, his ‘prey instinct’ may just kick in if he does spot a squirrel in a tree.

The Australian Cattle Dog can become incredibly attached to his owner and is devoted to his human family. He is friendly and protective of his family but wary of strangers. He wants to be where his owner is and not being able to do that is pure torture for him.

AUSTRALIAN CATTLE DOG FOOD AND HEALTH

These dogs are generally strong and healthy. As with all dogs, it is recommended that you find a good breeder who can show you health clearances with a score of fair or better for hip and elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism and von Willebrand’s disease. You’ll also want clearance that their eyes are healthy from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF). You can confirm these clearances on the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals website.

These high-energy dogs are born to work long hours and run long distances. They need a healthy diet formulated to provide stamina, nourish their all-weather coats, and keep them fit. Premium commercial dog foods that are certified will contain most of the necessary nutrients. Additional natural supplements can also be beneficial. Only feed your pup food according to his age group. This is clearly marked on dog food packaging.

If you are cooking your pup’s meals, they should contain 50 percent human-grade animal protein, 25 percent complex carbs, and 25 percent vegetables or fruit. The meat can be oily fish, poultry, muscle, or organ meats, while slow-burning carbohydrates should be in the form of brown rice, sweet potato, barley, or quinoa. Apples, bananas, and pumpkins can be added as the fruit and vegetable component.

The amount of food you give your pup daily will depend on their age and activity level. Consult your vet for a guideline for the quantity your specific pup needs. Mealtimes should be consistent and served at the same time every day.

LEASHES AND COLLARS FOR YOUR AUSTRALIAN CATTLE DOG

If you are looking for a companion to join you on long hikes, expeditions, and runs, an Australian Cattle Dog can be a great dog for you. It is best to keep him on a leash as he’ll be excited when exploring new places and is generally full of energy.

A harness is a good option as it gives you control without putting any strain on the dog’s neck which can cause thyroid, throat, eye or ear issues. The harness will fit around the dog’s torso and chest instead of his neck which means it is safe even if he is pulling. Get your pup used to walking with a harness when he is still young.

It is also advised to keep a nametag on your pup. We recommend using a collar that stays on all the time for this purpose only and using the harness for walking. A 22 to a 28-inch collar is generally a good size, but it is best to measure your dog’s neck circumference to make sure you get the right fit. When fitting the collar, there should be enough space between the collar and your puppy’s neck to fit two fingers. This ensures it sits snuggly but is not too tight.

BEST CRATES, BEDS, AND DOG HOUSES FOR AUSTRALIAN CATTLE DOGS

Heelers are bred to be outdoors for long hours in all kinds of weather conditions. When deciding whether your pup should sleep indoors or outdoors, you want to give him the option of both. As much as your dog likes the outdoors, if he wants to be near his human family, he may prefer spending evenings inside with you. The weather conditions may also affect where the best place for your furry friend to retreat for the night is.

If you are crate training your pup, a 36-inch crate is a good size for an Australian Cattle Dog. We do, however, recommend measuring your pup to make sure it will be big enough. There should be enough space for him to stand, move around comfortably to change positions, and lie down.

The same applies when choosing a dog house. When your dog is standing, the dog house should be at least 25 percent higher than his head height. The length of the kennel should be longer than your dog’s body so he has enough room to get comfortable and lie down inside.

Whether choosing a kennel or crate (or both) take into account that his sleeping pad or bed will also take up extra space. For an indoor crate sufficient air ventilation is also absolutely key.

When it comes to outdoor kennels, you need something raised off the ground and weather resistant, however, make sure it hasn’t been treated with any toxic paint or chemicals. Timber dog houses are a good option, just check for splinters and sharp edges when setting it up.

A bigger house will be better for summer months to allow some airflow while a cozy unit will help retain heat in winter. Ensure there are no leaks and add extra blankets to make it a haven. If the weather is extreme, keep your pup inside with you. Ideally, you want to see where your pup is most comfortable and let him get a good night’s rest, whether that is inside or outside.

Getting a dog house with a detachable lid makes it easy to clean and take out blankets and bedding for washing. The house shouldn’t be placed in an area that gets excessive sun or shade.

BEST TOYS FOR AUSTRALIAN CATTLE DOGS

If you choose an Australian Cattle Dog as a companion, be prepared to keep him busy constantly with jobs to do and games to play.

Teething toys are a must for puppies to prevent them from chewing pretty much everything else. Chew toys, rubber chew rings, and tug toys are good for dogs of all ages, so even once the teething period is over, chew toys can still be a great option. Always make sure they are made from non-toxic durable materials and free from plastic or chemical odors since heelers can be sensitive to smell.

Since your high-energy pal loves being active, a ball launcher could make things a little easier for you when it comes to playtime. Combine it with a squeaky element and it’s a winner. Plush toys should be specifically made to endure loads of chewing love with minimal stuffing that can be accidentally swallowed.

Keep your dog mentally stimulated with treat finder toys and puzzle dispensers. These come in various forms including treat dispenser balls and interactive shuffleboard puzzles.