Cattle Dogs 101

Herding group

The Australian Cattle Dog, also known as the Queensland Heeler or the Red or Blue Heeler, was developed to handle the toughest cattle on vast Australian ranches. The “heeler” refers to their style of moving livestock, brave enough to nip at the heels and agile enough to dodge a kick. They are devoted to their families, but generally not outgoing towards people they don’t know. Cattle Dogs are solidly built and well-muscled, and they need consistent handling and lots of exercise of both body and mind. They excel in any number of dog sports and are popular with horse owners, especially in the western United States.

What we love about Cattle Dogs

Fearlesss, faithful and indefatigable

Energy level
Bark level
  • As needed
Size
17 to 20 inches tall
Lifespan
12 to 16 years
Weight
35 to 50 lbs

We want to see pictures of your Cattle Dog!

Tag @NationwidePet on social media!

My pet’s health plannerSM

Mature adult Cattle Dog

5 years to 8 years

Risk level for common Cattle Dog conditions

Ear hematoma

Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

Trauma

Senior Cattle Dog

9+ years

Risk level for common Cattle Dog conditions

Cushings disease

Arthritis

Splenic cancer

Cattle Dog puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Cattle Dog conditions

Gastroenteritis

Trauma

Foreign body ingestion †

Young adult Cattle Dog

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Cattle Dog conditions

Trauma

Foreign body ingestion

Conjunctivitis

Mature adult Cattle Dog

5 years to 8 years

Risk level for common Cattle Dog conditions

Ear hematoma

Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

Trauma

Senior Cattle Dog

9+ years

Risk level for common Cattle Dog conditions

Cushings disease

Arthritis

Splenic cancer

Cattle Dog puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Cattle Dog conditions

Gastroenteritis

Trauma

Foreign body ingestion †

Young adult Cattle Dog

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Cattle Dog conditions

Trauma

Foreign body ingestion

Conjunctivitis

Australian Cattle Dog introduction

Nationwide can help you save on your Australian Cattle Dog's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.

Get your Australian Cattle Dog’s health information in a free report

Australian Cattle Dog introduction

Australian Cattle Dogs are born white, later developing their distinctively mottled red or blue coats.

Australian Cattle Dog coat care and colors

Although they have short coats, Australian Cattle Dogs have an undercoat as well, giving them the ability to thrive in any kind of weather. Regular brushing will keep shedding low.

Cattle Dog exercise & training

Full speed ahead

Exercise level

Australian Cattle Dogs were bred to work all day on massive ranches, so it's no surprise that they need as much exercise as you can give them. They have an effortless gait that chews up the miles, and rapid acceleration that endangers the neighborhood squirrels. They are great running and biking companions, and with their natural affinity with horses, can be seen trotting alongside many trail riders.

Class star

Trainability

Cattle Dogs are very intelligent and learn quickly. They can be independent and even hard-headed when they want to do something other than what you ask of them. Consistent reward-based training will help them see "what's in it for me."

Cattle Dog fun facts

Top girl names for Cattle Dogs

100%

of Cattle Dogs are female

0%

of Cattle Dogs are male

Top boy names for Cattle Dogs

Nationwide loves Australian Cattle Dogs of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Explore pet insurance

Other breeds like Cattle Dogs

Best. Australian Cattle Dog insurance. Ever.SM

  • Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
  • Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
  • Cancel at any time, risk-free
Get a quote today