Australian Cattle Dog

Published: February 24th, 2016 Last updated: August 17th, 2022 by Kyle J. Larson

Average size and lifespan

Height: 1ft 5in - 1ft 8in
Weight: 35-50lbs
Lifespan: 11 - 14 Years

Behavior

Affection5/5
Kid-Friendly2/5
Stranger-Friendly3/5

Dog-Friendly3/5
Barking Amount1/5

Care

Grooming Difficulty1/5
Shedding Amount3/5
Easy to Train2/5

Can Be Alone3/5
Exercise Need5/5

Environment

Cold Tolerance4/5
Heat Tolerance4/5

Apartment-Friendly2/5

Australian Cattle Dog Information

Very active and alert, the Australian Cattle Dog is ready to work all day long. Bred to protect cattle, this dog played a huge role in helping to develop the beef industry in Australia. They have a high energy and are determined to get the job done!

Considering its original purpose, the Australian Cattle Dog needs to stay busy and is extremely intelligent. Dogs can be blue or red in coloring, with or without markings. Their exercise needs may be great, but grooming requires only weekly brushing and occasional baths. These pups are pleasant and easy to train and make solid household pets.

All dogs have their own personality and unique training, causing them to differ slightly from these breed stats. However, please let us know if we made an error in the stats, we appreciate your help!

Breed FAQs

Can Australian Cattle Dogs be apartment dogs?

The Australian Cattle Dog needs room to run and play. This makes them difficult to keep in small spaces like an apartment.

Can Australian Cattle Dogs be left alone?

While Australian Cattle Dogs prefer to be around their owners, they can do fairly well when left alone if necessary.

Are Australian Cattle Dogs good with kids?

Australian Cattle Dogs can be difficult to handle with the rowdy behavior of a child. They should be watched very closely.

Are Australian Cattle Dogs friendly with strangers?

Although Australian Cattle Dogs can take a bit to warm up to a stranger, they are mostly friendly with others.

Do Australian Cattle Dogs get along with other dogs?

Although Australian Cattle Dogs will mostly get along with other dogs, they may have some issues. They can typically be dealt with by socializing them with other dogs.

Do Australian Cattle Dogs bark a lot?

Australian Cattle Dogs don't bark very often of may never bark. Most barking is trained or in extreme situations.

Do Australian Cattle Dogs shed a lot?

Australian Cattle Dogs shed a medium amount. They will have seasonal shedding, but aren't terrible to clean up after.

Do Australian Cattle Dogs need a lot of grooming?

With a Australian Cattle Dog you won't need to dedicate any extra time to special grooming. Their coats are easy to deal with.

Do Australian Cattle Dogs need a lot of exercise?

Expect Australian Cattle Dogs to have high energy levels and need a lot of exercise. You'll need to find options to release this energy or they may exibit bad behavior.

Are Australian Cattle Dogs easy to train?

Most Australian Cattle Dogs are stubborn and will take extra work to train. They can still learn trained behaviors, but will take more effort.

Can Australian Cattle Dogs handle cold weather?

Australian Cattle Dogs do well in cold weather. You may need to protect their paws, but they'll do well in colder climates.

Can Australian Cattle Dogs handle hot weather?

Australian Cattle Dogs do well in hot climates and can stay out longer without overheating.