Australian Cattle Dog: The Farm Dog

Tags: dogs, pets, training, australian cattle dog

The Australian Cattle Dog (comes from Australia) is one of the most popular dog breeds in its country of origin – the lovable pooch has been for many purposes, such as herding cattle. They have been gifted with an abundance of stamina and the ability to learn many commands as given by the farm people.

They aren't that big, only weighing anywhere from 35 to 45 pounds and standing 17 to 20 inches, but were still really good at the job it was assigned to because of its “superior herding skills”. The Australian Cattle Dog happens to be one of the most intelligent dog breeds to date – farmers could use one to 3 word commands for it to do something in particular, like round up the herd or look for stray animals and notify its master of its location.

In terms of behavior, the Australian Cattle Dog loves to work – this is something that it actually looks forward to, and rarely has any hesitations of carrying out a task (unless you've done something wrong during the canine behavioral lessons you've given it. This pooch doesn't just love working, but it needs working; without it they can actually develop some behavioral disorders.

If you ever decide to keep one as a pet, you're going to have to find something to act as a substitute for its labor needs – such would include rigorous exercise and play. Taking it on long walks and jogs would be good for it to expend all that locked up energy in its body.

This pet is most definitely not suitable for indoor living, especially apartment living. Having it confined within the property in a small area would also have negative effects on its behavior. So if you don't have the time to take it out for play and exercise, this isn't the right pet for you.

But if you feel that you can provide for its needs and give it enough time for exercise, play, or work, then feel free to get an Australian Cattle Dog now. Another thing to always remember is that it has the word “dominance” engraved on its forehead – it has the tendency to get really bossy and not listen to anything the master will tell it to do, especially if you're a spineless coward.

To best deal with that, you have to get it as a puppy, which would make dog obedience lessons much easier. Have firm yet gentle control over it – make it respect you, not fear you. It may be one of the most intelligent breeds there is, but it doesn't learn well if it's bored.

Keep the training routines consistent held daily on the same time of the day. Include treats and rewards, which should only be given if for good behavior and obedience. The Australian Cattle Dog has a protective and territorial instinct – with the right dog training methods, you can easily transform it into a guard pooch.

They easily grow wary of strangers and will let you know of their presence immediately. The herding instinct of this pooch is something that can be kinda difficult to remove – it treat the family as flock, and will gently bite at the heel to pull them back when straying too far.

The Australian Cattle Dog is not for those without prior experience to canine ownership.

About the author

Alex De La Cruz is a successful Dog Trainer who has been advising and coaching dog owners for many years. Alex now decided to share his knowledge through this site, Doggyweb.info. You can sign up for his free weekly newsletter and learn how to keep your dog healthy and happy.

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