Australian Cattle Dog
Also known as Bouvier Australien · Australischer Treibhund · Boyero Australiano
Australia, Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs)
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 43–51 cm
- Weight
- 15–22 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Intelligent
- Energetic
- Loyal
- Alert
- Hardy
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog is a tough, medium-sized herding dog developed in Australia for moving cattle over long distances in harsh country. It is compact, muscular and agile, with a weather-resistant short coat in blue or red speckled colours, and often a mask or patches. It is known for its endurance and quick thinking.
Temperament
Intelligent, alert and loyal, often attached to one person or a family. Can be wary of strangers and may nip at heels in a herding instinct. Needs a job to do and clear, consistent training.
Exercise
Needs a lot of daily exercise and mental work, such as running, agility, herding or trick training. Bored dogs may become destructive.
Grooming
Short double coat that sheds, especially seasonally. Brush weekly.
Care & wellbeing
Keep it active and mentally busy. Teach good manners with children.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 18.5 kg adult- Water
- 740 ml–1.1 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,000 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- A brush once a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Australian Cattle Dog
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
Developed in Australia for driving cattle over long distances in harsh terrain, using a mix of herding dogs brought by settlers and the native dingo. Tough, intelligent and very energetic, it often bonds closely to one person and needs a real job to stay content.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Deafness
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Hip dysplasia
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- BAER hearing test
- DNA test for PRA
- Hip and elbow scores
Not every Australian Cattle Dog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Australian Cattle Dog right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Australian Cattle Dog get?
Adult Australian Cattle Dogs typically stand about 43–51 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 15–22 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Australian Cattle Dogs live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Australian Cattle Dog need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Australian Cattle Dog need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Australian Cattle Dogs easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Australian Cattle Dogs shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Australian Cattle Dogs good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Australian Cattle Dog live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Australian Cattle Dogs have?
The breed can be prone to deafness, progressive retinal atrophy (pra), hip dysplasia. Not every Australian Cattle Dog is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Australia
- Type
- Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs)
- Internationally recognised
- 1972