Heelers: Red and Blue from Down Under

Belonging to the herding dog breed grouping, Red and Blue Heelers are also know as Australian Cattle dogs. The harsh conditions prevalent on Australian cattle stations and the need for a dog that could endure them brought about the development of these dogs in the mid to late 1800s. It was the cattlemen themselves that undertook to breed the kind of dog that was needed on the cattle stations.

The Physical Attributes of the Australian Cattle Dogs

Australian Cattle dogs are of medium stature. They are usually 17 to 20 in height and about 30 to 50 lbs. In weight. They also have a muscular build. The color of the dogs usually comes in two colors: red and blue. This is the reason that the are called Red Heelers and Blue Heelers.

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At birth, strangely enough, Australian Cattle dogs are all white in color. As they mature, they begin to show the patches on the face and body. Once they are fully mature, they will take on the red or blue color. This characteristic is somewhat unique in dogs.

Australian Cattle dogs have what is referred to as a double coat. Short, straight hair comprises the first, protective layer. The very short undercoat is very dense and has a kinky appearance. The undercoat gives added protection from the harsh conditions they were bred to withstand. Australian Cattle dogs are used extensively to guard cattle herds on the Australian cattle station because the double coat is weather resistant. It should be noted that these dogs will shed seasonally.

Since they were bred for toughness, Australian Cattle dogs are able to endure the harsh conditions of the Australian cattle station. Along with alertness, liveliness, strength and compactness, they are also brave and very devoted to their masters. With proper training, Australian Cattle dogs can be trusted to know the right way to fulfill their duties without constant supervision. This is the primary reason they are a member of the herding family of dog breeds.

While they are excellent herding dogs and great watchdogs, the same traits make them unsuitable as a family pet. They do not tolerate children well and suspicious of strange people and animals. They also have a strong tendency to want to be dominant, so they are not a good choice for first time dog owners.

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