Australian Cattle Dog
Male: 15-22 kg, Female: 15-22 kg
43-51 cm at the shoulder
12-16 years
🇦🇺 Bluey, 29 years and 5 months
Australia
About the Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog is a sturdy, compact, and powerful working dog, meticulously engineered for the unique challenges of the Australian bush. Often referred to as a 'Heeler' because of its tendency to nip at the heels of stubborn cattle, this breed is the result of crossing Dingoes with Smithfield dogs, Blue Merle Collies, and later, Dalmatians and Kelpies. This lineage created a dog with incredible stamina, a silent working style, and an unwavering devotion to its owner. Physically, the ACD is built for endurance rather than speed, showing a balanced combination of agility and strength. They are renowned for their 'wash-and-wear' weather-resistant coat and a distinctive look that reflects their wild dingo ancestry. As a highly intelligent breed, they require a 'job' to stay happy; without mental stimulation, they are known to become inventive and potentially destructive. For the right owner, they are the ultimate partner—deeply protective, tirelessly hardworking, and intensely loyal.
Australia’s resilient cattle drover
The Australian Cattle Dog was developed in Australia as a resilient droving dog, specifically bred to handle difficult cattle, rough country and the vast distances of the Australian outback. Through crossing Dingoes with imported herding dogs, breeders created a tough, tireless worker. The breed's strength, agility, endurance, intelligence, watchfulness and devotion to duty made it invaluable to the Australian beef industry.
Highly recommended for: rural properties, cattle work, active working homes and experienced owners who can provide daily training, exercise and a job to do.
Usually unsuitable for: apartment living, inactive owners, or homes unable to provide daily physical and mental stimulation.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the ring, the Australian Cattle Dog must exude the appearance of a hard-muscled, tireless worker. The breed standard emphasizes a broad skull, powerful jaws, and a keen, suspicious expression that highlights its guarding heritage. The movement should be free, supple, and tireless, with the ability to turn or stop suddenly—traits essential for cattle work. Their unique 'mottled' or 'speckled' coat colors provide a striking visual presence that is unlike any other breed in the working group.
In Australia
Native to Australia; developed in the 19th century by settlers like Thomas Hall to create a dog capable of handling wild cattle in the harsh Australian interior.
Bred For
Droving cattle over long distances in rugged terrain and extreme climates.
Temperament
Extremely intelligent, loyal, alert, courageous, and suspicious of strangers.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
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Grooming Needs
Low; weekly brushing is sufficient, though more frequent during seasonal coat blows.
Living Suitability
Not suited for apartments; requires a large, secure yard or acreage and thrives in rural or active suburban environments.
Good with Kids
Good with older, respectful children; herding instincts may lead to nipping at younger, fast-moving kids.
Good with Other Pets
Can be dominant with other dogs; high prey drive may affect relationships with small pets unless raised together.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and quick to learn, but possesses an independent streak that requires firm, consistent, and positive leadership.
Coat & Colours
Smooth, double coat with a short, dense undercoat and a straight, hard outer coat.. Blue, Blue Mottled, Blue Speckled, Red Speckled (often with tan or black markings).
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
The Australian Cattle Dog is predisposed to high energy demands; if their physical and mental needs aren't met, they may find their own 'work,' which can involve redecorating your garden. They have a natural tendency to 'heel' or nip at moving objects, including children and bikes—this can be managed with consistent training and redirection. Shedding is a reality, especially during seasonal changes when they 'blow' their undercoat, often affectionately called 'Cattle Dog glitter' by owners. They are more likely to be suspicious of strangers, making early and ongoing socialization vital for a well-adjusted dog. In terms of health, the breed is prone to hereditary deafness and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA); while these aren't certainties for every dog, responsible breeders test for these to ensure healthy lines. Additionally, their intense loyalty can sometimes lead to separation anxiety if they aren't taught to be confident when alone. They are also prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, so maintaining a lean weight on a fresh food diet is a great way to support their joints throughout their long lives.
Feeding Guide for Your Australian Cattle Dog
Healthy Weight
15-22 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
300-660 grams
A fresh or raw diet is ideal for maintaining the lean, athletic condition of an Australian Cattle Dog. For an adult weighing between 15kg and 22kg, feeding approximately 2-3% of their body weight daily is recommended. This equates to 300g to 660g of fresh food per day, ideally split into two meals. High-energy working lines may require the higher end of this range or even up to 4% during peak activity periods.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
High-protein, moderate-fat fresh or raw diet to support lean muscle mass and high energy output.
An ideal raw diet for an Australian Cattle Dog focuses on high-quality proteins such as Beef and Lamb to support muscle repair, with Kangaroo (a Majestik staple) being an excellent lean, low-fat option. Adding seasonal green vegetables provides essential fiber. Given their high activity, ensure adequate calorie density through healthy fats while monitoring for obesity if their exercise levels drop.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Australian Cattle Dog Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Australian Cattle Dog? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Oldest Recorded
29 years, 5 months (Bluey)
Average Litter Size
1-7 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.