Highly Intelligent and Trainable

Australian Cattle Dogs are extremely intelligent and thrive in environments where they can learn new tasks and work.

Loyal and Protective

They form strong bonds with their families and are protective, making them excellent watchdogs.

Energetic and Active

Perfect for active owners or families who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, running, or cycling.

Low Grooming Needs

Their short coat requires minimal grooming, making them easy to care for in terms of coat maintenance.

High Exercise Needs

They require a significant amount of physical and mental exercise, which can be challenging for less active households.

Strong Herding Instinct

Australian Cattle Dogs may try to herd children or other pets, which can result in nipping behaviour if not properly managed.

Not Ideal for Apartments

Due to their high energy levels and need for space to roam, they are better suited to homes with large yards.

Can Be Stubborn

Their independent nature can make them stubborn at times, requiring consistent, firm training.

Exercise Needs

Australian Cattle Dogs are high-energy dogs that require regular, vigorous exercise to stay happy and healthy. They enjoy activities like running, hiking, and playing fetch. Without sufficient physical and mental stimulation, they may become bored and engage in destructive behaviours.

Walks

Australian Cattle Dogs need at least one or two long walks or runs per day, along with additional playtime and mentally stimulating activities. They excel in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding trials.

Training

Australian Cattle Dogs are intelligent and quick learners, but their independent nature can make them stubborn at times. Early obedience training is crucial to establish boundaries and ensure good behaviour. Positive reinforcement methods work best, and they benefit from consistent, firm leadership. They thrive in environments where they have a job or task to complete, making them excellent working or sporting dogs.

Purchase Price

$1,500 - $4,000 AUD depending on breeder and lineage.

PuppyPal encourages you to explore rescue and shelter adoption options—these can be more affordable and offer a loving dog a much-deserved second chance at a forever home

Initial Setup

Around $400 - $600 AUD. (crate, bed, toys, etc.)

Food

Approximately $800 - $1,200 AUD per year, depending on dietary needs.

Grooming

Minimal grooming costs, typically around $200 - $300 AUD per year. Regular brushing is sufficient to keep their coat healthy and manage shedding.

Vet Bills

Initial vaccinations, microchipping, and desexing can cost around $500 - $1,000 AUD. Ongoing annual check-ups and preventive care could cost $400 - $800 AUD per year, with additional expenses for managing potential joint or eye issues.

Total Lifetime Cost

Over a 12-16 year lifespan, the total cost of ownership can range from $20,000 - $35,000 AUD, depending on health and lifestyle factors.

Size and Weight

Australian Cattle Dogs typically stand 43-51 cm (17-20 inches) tall and weigh between 15-22 kg (33-49 lbs), with males generally being larger than females.

Coat

They have a short, dense double coat that is water-resistant. Their coat sheds moderately, and they may experience heavier shedding during seasonal changes.

Colour Options

Australian Cattle Dogs come in two primary colours: blue (blue mottled or speckled with black, blue, or tan markings) and red speckle (red mottled or speckled with darker red markings).

Temperament

Australian Cattle Dogs are known for their energetic, alert, and loyal temperament. They are highly intelligent, making them quick learners, but they can be independent and stubborn if not properly trained. Their natural herding instinct means they are protective of their families and can be wary of strangers. However, with early socialisation, they are generally friendly and well-adjusted.

Good with Children

Australian Cattle Dogs can be good with children, especially older ones who understand how to interact with dogs. However, due to their herding instincts, they may try to "herd" young children, which can involve nipping. Supervision and proper training are essential to manage this behaviour.

Socialisation

Early and consistent socialisation is important for Australian Cattle Dogs to ensure they are comfortable around new people, pets, and environments. They are naturally protective, so socialisation helps them develop confidence and appropriate behaviour around strangers.

Indoors vs. Outdoors

Australian Cattle Dogs prefer to live indoors with their families but need plenty of outdoor time for exercise and mental stimulation. They are not well-suited to full-time outdoor living, as they thrive on human interaction, but they need regular outdoor activities to burn off their energy.

Apartment Living

Due to their high energy levels and need for space, Australian Cattle Dogs are not ideal for apartment living. They do best in homes with large yards where they can run and play freely.

Time Alone

Australian Cattle Dogs do not do well when left alone for long periods. They are highly social dogs that enjoy being around their family and may become bored or anxious if isolated for too long. They are best suited to homes where someone is present for most of the day, or they have a job or task to keep them occupied.

Common Health Issues

Australian Cattle Dogs are generally healthy dogs but can be prone to certain conditions, including hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and deafness (particularly in puppies with a lot of white in their coat). Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and controlled exercise are important for maintaining their health.

Guarding Ability

Australian Cattle Dogs are naturally protective and make excellent watchdogs. They are alert and will bark to alert their owners of strangers or unusual activity, though they are generally friendly once properly introduced to new people.

Affectionate Nature

Despite their independent streak, Australian Cattle Dogs are affectionate with their families and enjoy spending time with their owners. They are loyal companions that bond closely with their people.

Suitability for Dog Parks

Australian Cattle Dogs are generally social with other dogs, but supervision is recommended in dog parks due to their high energy and potential for herding behaviour. Early socialisation helps ensure positive interactions with other pets.

Climate Adaptability

Australian Cattle Dogs are well-suited to the Australian climate, as their short, dense coat provides protection in various weather conditions. However, they may need extra care in extreme heat, including access to water, shade, and limiting exercise during the hottest parts of the day.

Ethical Breeding Considerations

Due to their predisposition to certain genetic conditions, such as hip dysplasia and deafness, it is important to purchase from a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings. Ethical breeding practices help reduce the risk of hereditary health problems and ensure the well-being of the puppies.