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Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Cattle Dog
Origin
Australia
Size
Medium Breed
Ideal Space
House with backyard
Ideal Weather
10º-28ºC
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹3,550
Basic Lifestyle
₹5,400
Premium Lifestyle
Top 5 Traits
Disciplined
Energetic
Intelligent
Loyal
Protective
Introducing You to Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog, depending on the coat color, is also called blue or red heeler. A fairly sturdy breed, it is one of the hardest dogs to have ever existed. This breed weighs like a linebacker and is bred in Australia to drive cattle long distances over rough terrain. Ranchers imported cow dogs from Europe at that time, but they were not hardy enough to work in the heat and rough terrain.
In recent years, Australian Cattle Dogs have attracted a fair degree of attention for their intelligence, loyalty, and good looks. However, their boundless energy has earned them a spot on the list of challenging breeds, particularly for first-time dog owners.
This incredibly hard-working breed may not suit every lifestyle. These dogs need daily physical exercise and mental stimulation and are very intelligent and hard workers which requires the active pet owners to fulfil their needs for exercise and enrichment of the mind.
Let's continue to read about Australian Cattle Dogs and see if they would fit into your family.
Lifespan of Australian Cattle Dog
The life expectancy of an Australian Cattle Dog is 12-16 years, provided proper care, nutrition, and exercise are given. Some ACDs even surpassed the longevity of 16 years; Bluey, an ACD, holds the record for the longest-living dog at 29 years and 5 months.
What Are The Australian Cattle Dog Traits & Characteristics?
The Australian cattle dog is alert, intelligent, watchful, and courageous. Highly trustworthy and dependable, they have a tenacious sense of duty. They are loyal to their owners, suspicious of strangers, and extremely protective when used as a watchdog. However, they are not barkers. Here are their specific traits and characteristics:
Physical Traits of Australian Dog Cattle
- Male height - 18-20 inches.
- Female height - 17-19 inches.
- Weight - 30-50 pounds.
- Coat type - Double & smooth.
- Coat length - Short.
Behavioral Characteristics of Australian Cattle Dog:
According to Karacel Hayman, a breeder and owner of Redstart ACDs, the Australian Cattle Dogs bred more for work, such as herding cattle. They tend to be a bit sharper, and more intense, with higher drives and activity levels.
Australian Cattle Dogs are courageous and confront any creature, be it cattle, sheep, or other dogs, that is bigger and stronger than them. They are strong-willed dogs, with a somewhat selective approach to making friends. An Australian Cattle Dog will become destructive or could develop other problems like separation anxiety if not stimulated mentally and physically.
On account of their great loyalty and bonding, adult Australian Cattle Dogs find it hard to change owners; therefore, these dogs are not a short-term commitment.
Temperament of the Australian Cattle Dogs
Australian Cattle Dogs are smart, loyal, and hard-working with a strong protective instinct. They are also known for their very active and playful nature. They are:
- ACDs are extremely protective of their owners and their possessions.
- ACDs usually watch strangers with suspicion.
- An ACD may become aggressive when threatened or cornered.
- ACDs tend to try to herd small children or certain adults.
- Nipping or biting can be seen, which can be redirected through training.
Characteristics
Barking
Quiet
Loud
Temperament with Kids
Aggressive
Friendly
Playfulness
Silent
Very Playful
Friendliness
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Compatibility with other dogs
Aggressive
Friendly
Need for attention
Independent
Very Needy
Monthly Expenses
Coat Variants of Australian Cattle Dog
Red Australian Cattle Dog
Blue Australian Cattle Dog
Nutritional Care of Australian Cattle Dog
Monthly Food Expenses
₹ 2,250 - ₹ 3,000
Calories per day
Puppies: 1500 kcal
Adults: 1800 kcal
Essential Nutrients
Carbohydrates
Fats
Protein
Minerals
Vitamins
List of foods
Dry Dog Food
Home made meals
Vegetables
Fresh Meat
Fresh Fish
Chicken
Given their very active lifestyle, Australian Cattle Dogs may find glucosamine and chondroitin joint supplements helpful in keeping their cartilage healthy. According to PetMD, Australian Cattle Dogs are athletic and active and are therefore best suited to a high-quality, calorically dense diet.
On days when they exert a lot of energy, Australian Cattle Dogs may require increased food amounts or extra meals. Generally, 2 meals will suffice, but these hard-working dogs may benefit from a few smaller meals throughout the day.
Generally, an adult Australian Cattle Dog tends to require about 1,200 calories to 1,800. However, this may differ from one dog to another, so it is better to ask your veterinarian for advice.
Note: These are general guidelines. Consult a veterinarian to determine the specific dietary needs of your dog.
Breakdown of Macro-nutrients
Food habits of Australian Cattle Dog
The changes in diet would be due to the age and weight of the Australian Cattle Dog as it grows older. Hence, you should give a proper nutritional diet to your dog.
Recommended Ingredients for an Australian Cattle Dog Diet
- Give tasty wet food, as it has better digestibility and suits these dogs that have dental problems. Contains moisture for hydration and is costlier than dry food. It needs to be placed in the fridge after opening as wet food must be preserved.
- Dry food is convenient and pocket-friendly, it maintains dental health by inhibiting plaque formation. Some good ones include Hypro Premium, which offers reasonable nutrition to most dogs.
- A raw diet including raw meat, bone, and vegetable sources provides a wholesome and rich source of nutrients. It calls for proper planning to fulfill all of the dog's nutritional requirements.
What to Avoid in an Australian Cattle Dog’s Diet?
Avoid anything with these ingredients
Salt
Sugar
Mushrooms
Grapes
Garlic
Fruit seeds
Avocados
Cherries
Cinnamon
Onions
Avoid food such as:
- Corn.
- Wheat or soy.
- Low-quality fillers.
- Excessive amounts of table scraps.
- Chocolate.
- Grapes.
- Onions.
- Excessively fatty foods.
- Sugar-rich sweets.
These foods in very large amounts could cause digestive problems or deficiencies, with possible health problems owing to their high amounts of calories, or toxicity to dogs.
Australian Cattle Dog Healthcare Guide
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 600 - ₹ 1,200
Common Health Issues
Bloat
Hip Dysplasia
Parvovirus
Heartworm
Leptospirosis
Kennel Cough
Parasites
Canine distemper
Well being
Exercise
Agility Training
Bonding
Games
Socialization
Energy Level
High
Exercise routine
60 - 120 minutes
Recognising Stress
Excessive Barking
Pacing
Excessive Panting
Reluctance to move
Increased laziness
Changes in appetite
Common Health Issues Found in Australian Cattle Dogs
Generally speaking, the Australian Cattle Dog is a robust breed with a good reputation for health. Still, many health issues can affect the dog.
- Hip Dysplasia - Pain is caused by improper alignment of the joint and hip socket, which leads to inflammation. Signs include difficulty in hind limb weight bearing, lameness, and in severe cases, inability to move.
- Cataract - Based on the suggestions and remarks, cataracts are of two types: one that elevates the eye lens in minutes and the other, which causes painful cloudy dullness.
- Deafness - Deafness in these dogs is the complete or partial loss of hearing- hereditary or acquired by injury. With age, the condition usually deteriorates, resulting in some amount of unresponsiveness.
Preventive measures for health issues
- Lots of physical and mental exercise is necessary through regular walks, hikes, or agility training.
- Good nutrition is essential, so high-quality dog food formulated for your dog's age, size, and activity level should be offered.
- Make sure your dog has regular checkups and screenings for hip dysplasia, cataracts, and any other hereditary conditions.
- Regular eye exams with a veterinary ophthalmologist can identify and help manage vision problems.
- Start training and socialization at an early age to help alleviate problem behaviors and foster an obedient companion.
Vaccination details
Growth Stage
Core Vaccines
6-8 weeks
Distemper, Parvovirus, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza
10-12 weeks
Distemper, Parvovirus, Leptospirosis
14-16 weeks
Rabies
Annually
Boosters for Distemper, Parvovirus, and Leptospirosis
Senior Dog Care for Australian Cattle Dog Breed
Looking after a senior Australian Cattle Dog needs special consideration. These are summarized as given:
- Provide high-grade senior dog food, along with joint-supportive additives such as glucosamine, and omega-3s.
- Keep encouraging light exercise (short walks or swimming) involving muscles and joints.
- Avoid high-impact activities aimed at aging joints.
- Consider bedding orthopedically styled for joint comfort.
- Make periodic veterinary checks regular (minimum of two per year).
- Testing for arthritis, dental problems, and vision/hearing loss.
- Vaccination and keeping up with parasite control.
- Introducing them with mind-captivating, bone-using indoor games and puzzles.
- Undertake gentle training exercises to inhibit their cognitive impairment.
- A warm, cushioned sleeping space.
- Use ramps or stairs if their mobility slows down.
- Ensure their areas for resting, feeding, and drinking are easy to access.
Important Note: This information is for general guidance only. Always consult a qualified veterinarian for personalized advice.
Grooming Tips for the Australian Cattle Dog Breed
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 700 - ₹ 1,200
Shedding Level
Moderate Shedding
Hygienic Checklist
Bathing
Brushing
Ear Cleaning
Nail Trimming
Teeth Care
Eye Care
Benefits of Grooming
Cleanliness
Prevents infections
Low Shedding
Odourless
Prevents Bad Breath
- Once or twice a week, use a firm-bristle brush to remove any loose hair and dirt.
- Brush more often during the shedding seasons (spring & fall) to control heavy shedding.
- Only bathe when necessary (about every 2-3 months) to avoid stripping those natural oils.
- A mild dog shampoo would help keep their coat in good condition.
- Avoid over-trimming, as their coat repels dirt and moisture naturally.
- Check and clean their ears every week to prevent any wax buildup and infections.
- Use a veterinarian-approved ear cleaner and a cotton pad.
- Trim nails every 3-4 weeks to avoid overgrowth and discomfort.
- If you hear them clicking on the floor, it’s time for a trim.
- Brush teeth 2-3 times weekly with dog-safe toothpaste.
- Give dental chews to help minimize plaque buildup.
- Wipe the eyes with a moist cloth to remove dirt or discharge.
- Look for any signs of redness or irritation.
Proper grooming keeps your Australian Cattle Dog's coat, skin, and overall health in good condition and helps forge a bond with your dog!
How Much Does Australian Cattle Dog Puppy Cost?
Cost of buying
₹ 30,000 - ₹ 60,000
The Australian Cattle Dog is a not very common breed in India, which makes it costlier than other breeds. Generally, an ACD puppy in India ranges between ₹30,000 and ₹50,000. However, price differences may arise based on several factors such as breeder reputation, lineage, and geographical location.
Prerequisites to pet a Australian Cattle Dog
Access to Veterinary
Appropriate Climate
Financial Capability
Lifestyle Compatibility
Space and Environment
Shop or Adopt an Australian Cattle Dog: Make A Better Choice!
Whether you are thinking of getting your own Australian Cattle dog, you need to head right to the reputed breeder rather than buying from a pet shop. Adoption is the best option to offer a deserving dog another chance in life while avoiding the further breeding of puppies when so many dogs need love.
Best Practices to Follow While Shopping or Adopting Australian Cattle Dog
- Purchase from a recognized breeder who gives importance to the health, behavior, and standards of the breed.
- Request health clearances.
- Visit the breeder's premises in order to check living conditions and peer socialization.
- Check local shelters, rescues, and adoption websites.
- Get a brief history of the dog and what kind of temperament it has as well as any medical records available.
Compare with similar breeds
Whippet
Basset Hound
Bulldog
American Cocker Spaniel
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an Australian Cattle Dog the right family dog?
Australian Cattle Dogs can do well in family settings and love playing with children. Their high energy level matches well with active kids.
Can Australian Cattle Dogs be left unsecured in open spaces without fences?
Australian Cattle Dogs should normally not be unsecured in open spaces unless they exhibit great recall and training. They might chase after moving objects as a result of their herding instincts.
Are Australian Cattle Dogs intelligent?
Yes, indeed. The Australian Cattle Dog is among the brightest dogs you will ever come across.
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