“A Mans Best Friend”
Aug 9 2009
The Australian Cattle Dogs breed history is quite difficult to trace. The reason was the several experimentations done in order to produce an ideal breed to make up the ultimate heeler, the one that could survive and work in the Australian hinterland. It was not until 1897 when this dog breed became distinct.
Ancestors of this dog breed were the collies and dingoes. The resulting offspring was bred to Bull Terrier in 1870s by Fred Davis. In the late 19th century and early 20th century, the newly discovered breed was common for serving as guard dogs and sporting companion.
Such well-muscled, sturdy, and very agile breed makes an ideal characteristic combination to serve as a helper for cattle-herding. Australian Cattle Dog is named after its skills in droving cattle. This is the common reason why this breed is also mistakenly referred to as Australian Shepherd which is a totally different breed.
This breed type is also referred by several names such as Heelers, Red Heelers, Blue Heelers, Queensland Blue Heelers, and Queensland Red Heelers. Australian Cattle Dogs derived their attributes from parent breeds such as agility, intelligence, and versatility and these give the owner enough satisfaction to have them as pet and helper. With their exceptional physical strength and smartness, this breed is also ideal to serve as a guard dog or sporting companion.
Australian Cattle Dog physical features are easily recognizable. The body is longer and with slightly curved tail. When viewed from the front, the legs are perfectly straight.
Its pointed pricked ears and broad, bit rounded head are the distinctive physical features. Dark brown eyes are medium-sized and oval in shape. Its coat is composed of short dense undercoat and short straight outer coat, making its body cold and heat resistant.
Hip dysplasia which is also common among other breed types is also widespread in Australian Cattle Dog breed. That is why it is important to secure health clearances from the breeder to avoid having problems. Other illnesses also include deafness, luxating patellas, and progressive retinal atrophy or PRA.
Just like any other dogs, Australian Cattle Dog breed is also prone to several diseases such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy or PRA, Hereditary Deafness, Luxating Patellas. Other diseases also include Ruptured Anterior Cruciate Ligaments. To prevent this, seek health clearances.
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