Australian Cattle Dog
Tough Australian cattle drover, blue or red speckled. Tireless and intensely loyal.
The Australian Cattle Dog (also "Blue Heeler" or "Red Heeler") was developed by 19th-century Australian settlers crossing Smithfield collies with imported dingoes β to drive cattle long distances across rough terrain. Tireless, intelligent, intensely loyal.
Temperament
Devoted, alert, energetic, can be reactive. Bonded with one family.
Exercise needs
120 minutes daily plus serious mental work.
Grooming
Short double coat. Weekly brush.
Common health issues
Generally hardy. Watch for: hip dysplasia, deafness (BAER test), PRA, Australian Cattle Dog congenital deafness.
π Best for
Sport / working homes, ranchers, very active singles.
π Not best for
First-time owners. Apartments. Households with young children (heelers nip at heels).
