Australian Cattle Dog / ACD, Blue Heeler, Red Heeler

Breed history:

There are many opinions regarding this dog's origin, apparently it is the result of the crossbreeding between the Dingo and blue-grey Collies, then with a Dalmatian. The result was a dog, resistant to the Australian climate and an excellent worker used for herding cattle. 

Description:

It is a medium-sized dog, with a harmonious, strong, sturdy body. It has a wide, strong head with a conical, medium-sized nose. The eyes are medium-sized, oval and dark brown. The ears are relatively small, wide-set, with a pointed tip and erect. The tail is long, kept low at rest and erect when it is alert. The fur is double-layered, blue-colored (it can be simple, freckled or spotted) and red with or without patches of darker shades.

Personality:

It is an intelligent, brave, hardworking, alert and well balanced dog. It is loyal and protective with its master and family, but suspicious with strangers. If it is socialized at an early age, it will get along with children, or with other animals or companion dogs.

Grooming:

This dog’s fur only needs a casual brushing, performed more frequently during the shedding period.

Living conditions:

It is a dog resistant to bad weather, used to outdoor life. It needs an active master, the athletic type, because it needs mental and physical exercise. 

Training:

It is a relatively easy dog to train, because it is intelligent and eager to work. It requires a consistent training along with other canine activities. If it gets bored it will find other activities that may not be to the liking of its master, causing damage.

Usefulness:

It is an excellent watchdog, herder and a good companion.