Trusted Australian Cattle Dogs for Farm & Family

Height

18-20 inches (male)

17-19 inches (female)

Weight

35-55lbs

Set on of tail is moderately low, following contours of sloping croup | Length to reach approximately to hock | At rest it should hang in a very slight curve | During movement or excitement tail may be raised | Under no circumstances should any part of tail be carried past a vertical line drawn through root | Tail should carry a good brush. Australian Cattle Dogs should always have tails!

The compact but muscular Australian Cattle Dog, also called Blue or Red Heeler or Queensland Heeler, is related to Australia's famous wild dog, the Dingo. These resilient herders are intelligent enough to routinely outsmart their owners. ACDs are loyal, famously smart, tenacious, ever alert, and may be wary of strangers. If an ACD isn't challenged, it easily becomes bored and may get into mischief. It is recommended that ACD owners participate with these versatile dogs in some work, sport, or regular exercise to keep them mentally and physically fit.

Oval shape, medium size | Neither prominent nor sunken | Must express alertness and intelligence | Warning or suspicious glint is characteristic when |  approached by strangers | Eye color should always be dark brown.

The ACD is born with a white coat that turns blue-gray or red. It should be a smooth, double coat with short dense undercoat outer-coat. 

ACDs have immense work drive and excel at hunting, chasing, and, of course, moving livestock. Their boundless energy and supple gait make them excellent running partners. The Australian Cattle Dog can be trained to perform various functions on the farm or ranch. They possess high trainability coupled with a strong desire to please. Most Cattle Dogs can perform routine jobs after just a few exposures. A well trained Cattle Dog can replace two to three good men on horseback.