Appearance

Australian Cattle Dogs are solid, sturdy and compact dogs with an alert, ready-to-work stance. Slightly longer than tall with curved, hanging tails, they have muscular legs and strong necks and broad, somewhat rounded heads with pointy ears. Their dense, weather-resistant coats come blue speckled or red speckled—both with possible dark or tan markings.

History

Australian George Elliott, by crossing native Dingoes with Collies and other herding dogs, developed the Australian Cattle Dog in 1840. Australian cattlemen were impressed with the breed’s toughness and work ethic, and they quickly became popular as cattle herders. Called Australian Heelers, Blue Heelers and Queensland Heelers for a time, they eventually became known as Australian Cattle Dogs. Registered by the AKC in 1980 after years categorized as a miscellaneous breed, Australian Cattle Dogs continue to be popular with ranchers and cattlemen as well as regular pet owners.