Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog, or simply referred to as Cattle Dog, is a herding dog, and, as the name suggests, originates from Australia.

Australian Cattle Dog

An Australian Cattle Dog puppy at four weeks of age

Traits Weight 15 to 22kg (33 - 49lb) Height Male 46-51cm (18-20in) Female 43 - 48cm (17-19in) Coat A short double coat. Litter size Ranges from 1-7, but 5 is most common Life span Approximately 12-14 years (excluding injuries to dog)

Classification & standards FCI Group Section {{{fcisection}}} #{{{fcinum}}} [www.fci.be standard]

The Australian Cattle Dog is an extremely intelligent, active and sturdy dog breed. Developed by Australian settlers for handling herds of cattle, (also suggested by the name), they are still used today as a herding dog. They thrive on having a job to do, and being part of family activities.

Australian Cattle Dog Media

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  Black mask and tan markings on a blue dog

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  Red hairs will grow through the puppy's white coat as it matures.

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  A Cattle Dog with a single mask and a "bentley mark" shows the breed's typical alert expression.

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  The breed is well suited for agility trials.

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  Australian Cattle Dogs were bred to drive cattle, but are also used to herd sheep.

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  An active seventeen-year-old Australian Cattle Dog

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  Cattle Dogs have more injuries than illnesses.

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  An early Australian Cattle Dog, photographed in 1902

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  Cattle Dogs were accustomed to horses in the 1900s.

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  Soldiers stationed in Australia during WWII played a role in the breed's introduction to the US.