Australian Cattle Dog
This true-blue Aussie is a sturdy, hardworking dog who thrives on having an important job. A loyal and loving breed that is wonderfully suited to life on the farm or being an integral part of a loving, active household.
Australian Cattle Dog At A Glance
| Lifespan | 12-16 years |
| Temperament | A loyal, obedient and very energetic canine companion. |
| Suitable | An active and adventurous home who might even dabble in dog sports. |
| Health | Generally a very hearty, healthy breed. However, they can suffer from known health concerns. |
| COMMON CLAIMS | MAXIMUM CLAIM |
|---|---|
| Tissue Damage/Fracture | $4,065.05 |
| Blood Vessel Disorder | $4,210.05 |
| Ear Conditions | $1,663.38 |
| Gastrointestinal Conditions | $3,881.31 |
| Muscle Skeleton Condition | $4,724.44 |
| Arthritis | $1,433.87 |
| Cruciate Ligament | $5,734.34 |
| Neoplasia | $4,943.73 |
| Mass Lesion | $14,244.00 |
| Neurological Condition | $3,800.01 |
*Pet Insurance Australia Data 2022/2023
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Trainability
The lovable ‘blue or red heeler’ is undoubtedly a hardworking breed that loves to run and herd. Getting its great nickname from being a top ‘heeler’ or, in other words…wonderful at nipping the heels of the cattle they were busy herding. Because of this, the Australian Cattle Dog is a 100% working breed and needs a good dose of training to keep them occupied, happy and able to stretch their legs without worry (cue a good recall command). They are a breeze to train in the right hands and will thrive in all dog sports, including flyball and agility. This breed loves learning new things and pleasing their owners, which is a beautiful combination for easy training.
Early socialisation, like with all breeds, is essential, so lots of loud noises, sights, smells and experiences in the first few weeks will grow your adorable pup into a well-rounded, friendly dog.
Grooming
A brush-and-go, easy-to-groom breed that requires minimal maintenance. A quick rub over with a rubber mitt once or twice a week will suffice for this loveable breed. They will seasonally shed, but nothing compared to his canine friends. Increasing the twice-a-week groom to once a week will help during these months. Bath when required. Getting your Heeler pup used to having their feet, ears, and mouth touched is a good idea. This will make vet check-ups easy and stress-free. Also, get your pup used to having their nails clipped regularly.
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Common Health Concerns – Australian Cattle Dog
A hardworking and very active dog, the Australian Cattle Dog are known for their impressive endurance, intelligence, and agility – it’s no wonder they are typically a herding farm dog. While they are generally a robust breed, they can be susceptible to specific health complaints.
- Hip Dysplasia: A typically hereditary condition that causes lameness and pain due to the malformation and misalignment of the hip joint and thigh bone. This can also lead to arthritis. Treatment includes physiotherapy, weight management and surgery.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): Another genetic condition that causes the gradual degeneration of the retina, leading to vision loss and blindness. There is no treatment for this condition unless other underlying conditions, such as cataracts, are present. Treatment includes steps to ensure your dog is safe in their environment.
- Deafness: Congenital Hereditary Sensorineural Deafness (CHSD) is an inherited condition in many dog breeds, including the Australian Cattle Dogs. Affected one or both ears, puppies can also be born with this condition. Early intervention can help reduce hearing loss. A veterinary examination is paramount if you suspect your puppy is hard of hearing.
- Elbow Dysplasia: Like hip dysplasia, this is a joint malformation affecting the elbow, causing pain and lameness. Treatment involves physiotherapy, weight management and possible surgery to correct the condition.
- Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD): An orthopaedic problem caused by the abnormal cartilage growth in the joints causing extreme pain, stiffening and lameness. Most commonly seen in the elbows and shoulders, the condition can cause the separation of bone. Treatment involves surgical removal of the diseased cartilage causing the problem.
- Lens Luxation: A dislocation of the eye lens causing extreme pain. Specialised surgery is the only treatment for this condition.
- Portosystemic Shunt (PSS): A build-up of toxins in the bloodstream caused by the blood bypassing the liver. Symptoms can include slow/stunted growth, seizures, and abnormal behaviour. Treatment includes surgery and medication.
- Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA): Also known as Choroidal Hypoplasia (CH), while much more common in Collies (hence the name), this condition can also affect the Australian Cattle Dog. An inherited disease causing incomplete eye development that can lead to vision loss and blindness. This problem has no cure; however, surgery can help fix related issues. Good breeding and bloodline screening are paramount with this condition.
- Dog Dermatitis: A skin inflammation that can lead to an itchy, dry, and lifeless coat. Early detection and veterinary treatment can help keep this problem under control. Treatment involves medication, medicated shampoos, and regular flea treatments.
- Cataracts: A clouding on the eye lens that can lead to vision loss and blindness. Veterinary advice is paramount. Treatment can involve surgery.
Exercise Requirements
The Heeler is, first and foremost, a working dog. They need ample exercise and entertainment, or they will most certainly make their own, including digging numerous holes, escaping, barking and chewing – loads of fun for a dog, but not so much for owners. A good brisk walk in the morning alongside a decent off-leash run in the afternoons, followed by some play sessions, is the perfect way to keep your active dog happy. For this reason, they are not suited to life in an apartment.
Intelligence
The Heeler is, without a doubt, an incredibly smart breed and requires physical and mental stimulation. The breed has been specifically bred to have an important job, so you must enrich your pup’s environment when you are not at home to avoid problems. Give your Heeler a job, or they may find their own, like digging you a new swimming pool. Always exercise your dog before leaving for work, remembering that a tired Heeler is less likely to be a problematic Heeler. Also, consider rotating toys (remember to remove them when you get home) and utilizing some good boredom-busting techniques like treat balls and activities to do when you are not around. Training also plays a significant role in preventing problematic behaviours in energetic dogs.
Family Friendly
The Heeler makes an excellent family companion in the right home, with the correct training and socialisation. However, it is essential to note that this breed has been trained to nip and herd, so training this trait out of your pup and exposing them to children from an early age and throughout their lives is necessary. Like all dogs, supervision when interacting with children is paramount. Teach children the correct way to play with a dog and train the dog the proper way to interact with the children. They can learn to live in harmony if raised alongside smaller animals like cats. Socialisation is critical with this breed. The more they learn to love as pups, the easier their integration into the family home. They have a strong prey instinct, alongside herding. Remember that this is what this breed has excelled in, so the history and beautiful traits that farmers cherish need to be considered in the suburban environment.
Indoor/outdoor?
The Heeler does well living outdoors while you are not home but is a loyal, loving friend who should be invited into the family home once you return. They do not take well to a solitary life outdoors without the love and devotion of their human pack. They are hardy and require a good fenced yard to be regularly checked to stretch their legs and explore. Providing ample shade in the summer and shelter in the winter is crucial.
Responsible Breeding
With many of these hereditary problems, you must only source your new Australian Cattle dog from a reputable breeder who screens for issues. Ask all the important questions about genetic/inherited problems and ask to view Mum and Dad. Contact your local Australian Cattle Dog, Blue Heeler, Red Heeler or Queensland Heeler breed club and research your chosen breeder. Your breeder should have proof that they regularly test their dogs for genetic diseases and to ensure that the dogs they are breeding from have sound temperaments. It may take a little more time than clicking on a button online. However, it can save you and your family from the extreme heartache a sick puppy and dog can bring.
Contact PIA for Australian Cattle Dog Pet Insurance
PIA is a family owned pet insurance company for Australia, and we have a long and successful history of helping owners care for their Australian Cattle Dogs. Contact us today to learn more about our range of simple, flexible and affordable cover options.
