The Australian Cattle Dog presents a compact, symmetrical build that demonstrates remarkable strength and agility in a medium-sized frame. The overall silhouette conveys power and substance without heaviness, with every element of structure supporting the breed's function as a tireless working dog. Males typically stand 18 to 20 inches at the shoulder, while females measure 17 to 19 inches, with weight proportionate to height ranging from 35 to 50 pounds. The breed exhibits a slightly longer than tall proportion, measuring approximately 10 to 9 in length to height ratio.
The head displays a broad, slightly curved skull between the ears, with substantial strength in the jaw and muzzle. Eyes are oval-shaped, medium-sized, and dark brown in color, projecting an alert and intelligent expression that reflects the breed's sharp mental acuity. The ears are moderate in size, set wide apart on the skull, pricked when alert, and thickly furnished inside with hair. The muzzle is broad and well-filled under the eyes, tapering gradually to form a blunt wedge. The stop is moderate but distinct, and the powerful jaws house a complete set of evenly spaced teeth meeting in a scissors bite.
The neck flows smoothly into well-laid-back shoulders, showing exceptional strength and moderate length without throatiness. The body demonstrates a level topline with a strong back and muscular, broad loins. The chest extends deep and moderately broad, with well-sprung ribs that provide ample heart and lung room without interfering with shoulder movement. The underline shows a moderate tuck-up, and the croup slopes slightly to a tail set that continues the line of the back. The forequarters feature strong, sloping shoulders with well-angulated upper arms, straight forelegs with substantial bone, and round feet with short toes that arch well.
The hindquarters display broad, powerful thighs with strong, clean hocks and well-angulated stifles. The tail naturally hangs in a slight curve but may be carried higher when the dog is alert or working, though never curled over the back. The coat consists of a straight, hard, weather-resistant outer coat lying flat against the body, with a short, dense undercoat. Coat length is shorter on the head, fronts of legs, and feet, moderately longer forming a mild ruff around the neck, and with slight feathering on thighs and underside of the tail.
Color patterns fall into two distinct categories. Blue dogs may be blue, blue mottled, or blue speckled, with or without black, blue, or tan markings on the head, preferably with tan on forelegs and chest. Red speckle dogs show even red speckling throughout the coat, including the undercoat, with or without darker red markings on the head. Both color varieties may show tan markings on specific areas. Disqualifications include any color other than blue or red speckle, drop ears, long coat, white markings beyond specified allowances, or undershot or overshot bite. The gait demonstrates freedom of movement with reach and drive, appearing tireless and capable of quick, sudden action. Sexual dimorphism is apparent, with males displaying more substance and masculinity in head and overall build, while females show refinement without weakness.
Affection Level
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Strongly bonded to family members but often reserved with strangers
Good with Children
Good with children when properly socialized, though may attempt to herd them
Good with Other Dogs
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Generally tolerant of other dogs with early socialization, can be assertive
Good with Other Pets
Moderate compatibility, strong herding instinct may affect relationships with other animals
Playfulness
Highly playful and energetic, particularly enjoys games that involve problem-solving
Energy Level
Extremely high energy requiring multiple hours of daily physical and mental activity
Trainability
Highly trainable with a strong work ethic, responds best to consistent, positive methods
Intelligence
Exceptional intelligence and problem-solving ability, one of the most mentally capable breeds
Tendency to Bark
Moderate to high vocalization, particularly when alerting to changes in environment
Amount of Shedding
Moderate year-round shedding with heavier seasonal coat blows
Grooming Needs
Low to moderate grooming needs, requiring weekly brushing and occasional bathing
Prey Drive
Moderate to high prey drive, particularly toward small moving animals