The Queensland Blue Heeler was the original name for the Australian Cattle Dog. In 1813 in Australia, when the crossing of the Great Dividing Range was completed and the vast mountain ranges of Queensland were settled, thousands of small ranchers were in dire need of cattle that could withstand the harsh temperature extremes of the climate. With no fences, it was vital to have a dog that could keep the cattle at bay. The writings are sketchy, but it appears that the Blue Heeler was developed from crosses of the Smooth Collie, Kelpie, and wild Dingoes with a bit of Dalmatian in the mix as well.
The result was a dog with great turning agility bred to snap at the heels of cattle to move them, a dog that was silent as a ghost and could hold off the herd without “scaring” it. This original dog was the animal that had these necessary traits. A man named Robert Kaleski developed this original strain and in 1902 he drew up the first breed standard. The NSW Kennel Club accepted the standard in 1903, when it was officially named the Australian Cattle Dog. The term “Blue Heeler” is still often used to denote this breed.
The Cattle Dog is an uncompromising dog that is dedicated to the task. He is wary of strangers but is absolutely loyal to his master. This is a highly intelligent dog with ease of training and a strong desire to please. The dog was purposely bred to have a heavy mouth and punishing jaws, for the purpose of biting and nipping at the heels of cattle when herds are moving. Any sign of bad temperament was discouraged from the beginning in the breeding of these dogs and it is essential that this continues to be a practice of responsible breeders, since this dog has great power and force in its bite.
The Australian Cattle Dog is a hardy, hardy dog with few genetic problems. Few cases of hip dysplasia have been reported. He is not a large dog, measuring between 18 and 20 inches at the withers. The skull is wide to accommodate the bite, with a deep snout and no signs of looseness from flies. The body is balanced and stocky, the coat is of moderate length with tough, weather resistant outer guard hairs lying flat. All puppies are born white and the coat later develops into the “hair of many colors” that characterizes the breed. The Cattle Dog is a blackbird dog with blue or red spots or specks with red spots. There is usually a lighter “brush” of white on the tail. Cattle drivers have a preference for the darker color, since the cattle do not easily see the dog at night and can move between them without “scaring” the herd.
The Blue Heeler is a friendly and lovable dog and is gaining popularity as a pet and companion dog. However, they can be strong-willed and need to be trained early. They are good watchdogs and watchdogs. Anyone who has a cattle dog as a pet should understand that this is a dog bred to work and will always need plenty of exercise. They are a great companion for runners!
