Australian Cattle Dog Breed Information, Pictures, Characteristics, Facts

Some useful information about the Australian cattle dog for dog lovers

by 4Petneeds on 15-Jan-2018

In the nineteenth century, some Australian settlers bred the Australian Cattle Dog to herd cattle on large farm areas. The Australian Cattle Dog of this time is the product of the uncountable breeding and cross-breeding. The ranchers of that place wanted to have a strong canine that can tolerate the severe climate and capable of working under such circumstances. The dogs that were brought from England were not able to do such job, that’s why they were bred to the native Dingo. Breeding acts were done many times to have such a sturdy dog.

Canine Species Category: Herding Dog

Place of Origin: Australia

Height: 17 inches to 20 inches

Weight: 30 to 50 pounds

Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years

Temperament of the Australian Cattle Dog:

The Australian Cattle Dog is regarded as an extremely energetic canine. The dog needs to be kept busy with mental and physical activity. If left lonely or disinterested, then it can cause some destruction. The breed tends to chew and tear up things. It’s is advised to keep this canine breed busy and tired. On having less energy, the pooch doesn’t cause problems.

The protective nature of the dog compels it to guard its area. The dog is also almost aloof with unknown people. But, its devotion to its family and master is unquestionable. If it loves you, then it will follow you wherever you go. The dog is intelligent, but sometimes it can be obstinate. Proper training is a must to control its independent streak.

The way all dogs needs social training so does the Australian Cattle Dog. It needs to be familiar with many things like different sights, experiences, sights, and above all people. Socialization plays a very vital role in constructing the nature of every dog. Sending the pup to a puppy kindergarten class is wise. Taking the dog to the park filled with the crowd, and introducing it to every visitor who comes to your home is prudent. It will get the dog used to human beings and different places and atmosphere.

Health:

The Australian Cattle Dog is usually a healthy canine breed. But, it is like all dogs susceptible to some health issues. Not every Australian Cattle Dog can get these health problems, but it is wise to know about these diseases before having this breed as a pet. These diseases are given below:

Hip Dysplasia

Elbow Dysplasia

Hypothyroidism

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Deafness

Feeding an Australian Cattle Dog:

It is advised to feed your dog with 3/2 to 5/2 cups of premium dry food in a day. Give the meal two times.

Keep in Mind: Your dog’s eating amount should be according to its age, metabolic rate, physical activity, and build. Like human beings, dogs need a different amount of food. The more active dog needs more, and the less active one needs less. Always mind the quality of the food, because it plays the crucial role in promoting health.

Always keep your Australian Cattle Dog in the ideal shape by being cautious in giving it food. Feeding only twice in a day is strictly advised. Don’t leave the food within the dog’s reach all the time. If you are not sure about its being overweight, then first use the eye test then hand test to avoid confusion.

Look at your pooch to see a waist; if you can’t see that, then it is overweight. Then put the hands on the back of the dog, keep your thumbs along its backbone, keep your fingers spread downward. If you feel the ribs without pressing hard, then the dog is not overweight. But, if you can’t feel the spine, then the pooch must have more exercise and less food.

Grooming of the Australian Cattle Dog:

The Australian Cattle Dog’s outer coat is straight and short, and the undercoat is thick. The dog sheds once or twice a year.

The dog doesn’t need much grooming, but some grooming is important to keep it clean, germ-free, and healthy. Brushing is necessary for the removal of dirt and oil distribution. Whenever the pooch sheds, brush to remove the shed hair. Bathe it when the pooch dirty or smelling bad.

Brush its teeth twice to three times in a week to cope with tartar buildup and harmful bacteria. It’s best to brush your pooch’s teeth daily for the betterment of its dental health.

Trim your Australian Cattle Dog’s nails once in a month. Be cautious in trimming because many times you cut accidentally. It prudent to ask someone experienced for this.

The dog’s ears tend to be red or smelling bad which may cause an infection or already have one. Use quality ear cleaner to clean the ear using some cotton.

Always reward your dog with some cookies and biscuit after its cooperation in grooming. It will encourage the dog grooming next time.

Always look for rashes, infections, sores, injuries, and above all don’t forget that the dog is an animal while grooming it. Check every week for its grooming needs.

The Australian Cattle Dog with kids and other pets:

The Australian Cattle Dog needs socialization with kids to be good with them. But, the dog tends to bite and nip, which can be a problem for children.

It is very important to teach your children how to behave towards a dog. The dog may consider children a problem, so training, supervision, and socialization must be adopted in the care. No dog should be left with children without any supervision. It doesn’t matter how good the dog is with children.

If raised with other dogs at home, the Australian Cattle Dog can keep them company very well. The dog may have some jealousy with other dogs due to its devotion to a particular person in the family.

As far as being with cats and other small animals is concerned, the Australian Cattle Dog is likely to harm or even kill them. But if since puppyhood the dog is raised with them, then it might consider them its own family member and leave the pets alone.