The Australian Cattle Dog, also referred to as the Queensland Heeler, the Blue Heeler, and the Hall’s Heeler, is an Australian working dog. It is a short, stocky dog that grows to be about 20 inches tall and weigh about 45 pounds. It has a double coat. Its undercoat is dense and its top coat is smooth, straight and compact which makes it water resistant. The health problems that affect this breed include deafness, eye problems, and hip dysplasia.
This breed is very protective and bold. They make a great family dog, however, they tend to be aggressive towards strange children. This is because they may interpret the games that children play as a treat to their herd, their family. They are also suitable to use as watch dogs, guard dogs, and working dogs.
To care for this breed you will need to brush their coat once a week. Make sure that you remove debris from their coat when you find it to avoid skin problems. They are an active breed that need vigorous exercise at least twice a day. Their temperament can be a bit stubborn at times so you will need to train this dog to be obedient, because it is not going to come naturally to this dog. If cared for properly this breed should live between 12 and 15 
years.
2 Responses to “How to Train an Australian Cattle Dog”
I wouldn’t suggest this breed for anyone except experienced owners accustomed to working with assertive breeds. I would also only suggest for older children households as the dog really can mistake horseplay for another child hurting their child. Even an adult running toward the postman with a letter can be mistaken as mommy is attacking the postman, I should help….personal experience. They are excellent guard dogs but a well fenced large yard is a must. Never think because you’ve owned your dog for years he/she will not challenge you as alpha but they only respond negatively to a displays of temper. They often do better with family cats if introduced as puppies than they do other dogs especially of the same sex. Dog aggression even towards puppies can be a problem. If you can train a German Sheppard, you can train a Heeler but do expect a more stubborn, independent attitude that lasts a lifetime.
I absolutely agree with the above. This breed reflects the kind of training it receives. In that I mean if you train this breed using negative tactics i.e. hitting/ spanking, spraying in the face with a water bottle, no socializing with other dogs/ people when walking, then this breed can and will become nasty. Our ACD is 9 months, head strong ( i mean REALLY head strong) and has the courage of a lion. He’s also a sweet heart who exudes positive energy and is always looks like he just wants to have fun. He was a pain to train and we’re still working on him. The number one thing that made a difference was puppy school! We actually repeated the same class twice because it was such a great positive training environment for him and he needed the extra socialization. He’s still a puppy and is “bad” at time i.e. counter surfing, occasional accidents and wondering off into the woods if we’re not careful but he continues to show progress and after all he is still just a puppy. The independent attitude does last a lifetime but they do slow down past the age of 5.