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Among the many herding breeds, the Australian Cattle Dog is a well-regarded one, and for good reason. Widely known for their muscular build, intelligence, and loyalty, the Australian Cattle Dog has proven to be an incredible companion and worker.
But what about the Blue Heeler? Do they measure up to the Australian Cattle Dog characteristics? They most certainly do because they are the same breed!
It is not common for a single dog breed to have more than one name, but the Australian Cattle Dog is one such breed. While “Australian Cattle Dog” seems more widely used, “Blue Heeler” is still popular. Read on to learn more about the dog of many names!
Breed Overview
Height:
18–20 inches (male); 17–19 inches (female)
Weight:
35–50 pounds
Lifespan:
12–16 years
Colors:
Blue, blue mottled, blue speckled, red speckled, red mottled
Suitable for:
Active families, experienced dog owners
Temperament:
Loyal, intelligent, protective, energetic
Australian Cattle Dog Characteristics
The ACD is a robust dog that needs an active owner. Although they are only 20 inches high at the shoulder, they are agile runners and will make excellent jogging partners. Bred to be herding dogs, Blue Heelers are happy to be at work and burning off excess energy outside. These dogs need an owner who can give them the exercise they need to stay physically and mentally healthy.
The Earliest Records of the Australian Cattle Dog in History
Australian Cattle Dogs are the result of a long line of interbreeding. In 1840, George Elliott of Queensland bred blue-speckled Highland Collies with Australian dingoes. These dogs were widely popular due to their work ethic. In the late 1800s, Jack and Harry Bagust of Sydney bred that mix with a Dalmatian, changing the merle to a red or blue speckle.
Wanting to improve the breed’s natural herding ability, they crossed their speckled dogs with a Black and Tan Kelpie, a sheepdog. One of the puppies who was closest to the breed of dog they wanted was chosen to continue the line of what we now know as the modern Australian Cattle Dog.
How the Australian Cattle Dog Gained Popularity
The Australian Cattle Dog ranks in on the middle end of the AKC’s most popular breed list of 2023, coming in 52nd. They have dropped a little bit in popularity; in 2022, they were ranked in 48th place.
Despite their popularity ranking on the AKC list, many young children and parents recognize ACDs because of the widely popular show Bluey, which stars a family of Australian Blue Heelers.
Formal Recognition of the Australian Cattle Dog
In 1963, the Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC) officially recognized the Australian Cattle Dog breed.
The American Kennel Club formally recognized the ACD in 1980 but put them in the Working Group. In 1983, the ACD was moved to the Herding Group, which also happened to all current breeds in the Working Group. Then, in 1985, the United Kennel Club recognized the Blue Heeler.
Top 3 Unique Facts About Australian Cattle Dog
1. The Australian Cattle Dog goes by many names.
As we already established, the ACD is also known as a Blue Heeler, but they are also called “Queensland Heelers”, “Cattle Dogs”, and “Red Heelers”. Red Heelers, as the name suggests, have red speckled or mottled fur instead of blue.
2. Celebrities Owen Wilson and Matthew McConaughey owned Blue Heelers.
Texans sure do love Blue Heelers! Texan-born Owen Wilson and Matthew McConaughey have proudly owned Blue Heelers. Which celebrity will follow?
3. Most ACDs are born all white.
Despite their signature blue or red speckled/mottled coats, all ACD are born white. Some puppies may have black patches on their heads, but many are born all white.
Does the Australian Cattle Dog Make a Good Pet?
An Australian Cattle Dog will be better suited for an owner who can provide them the exercise they need to thrive. These dogs are active and will not do well cooped up. Long daily walks, playtime in a yard, or some animals to herd will do the Blue Heeler good!
In Conclusion
Whenever you hear Australian Cattle Dogs, Queensland Heelers, Cattle Dogs, Blue Heelers, or Red Heelers, know that these are the same breed. Much like a German Shepherd is also known as an Alsatian, Australian Cattle Dogs are often called Blue Heelers (unless they are Red Heelers).
Featured Image Credit: Vera Reva, Shutterstock
