by Marcia Connors
The Australian Cattle Dog is an unusual breed. There was a lot of experimentation going on in trying to find the perfect combination of dogs to make up the ultimate heeler that could live and work in the Australian outback. The early settlers in Australia brought with them both livestock and the dogs they used to work them. These sheepdog-type-canines were wonderful herders in the British Isles, but were not built to withstand the rigors of the rugged Australian outback.
These dogs were known as "Smithfields". Their heavy coat and bulk resulted in a lack of stamina when the colonizers moved inland toward the harsher climates of the outback. Several attempts were made to breed the Smithfields with the local dingoes resulting in dogs which were too noisy and thus scared the cattle, were ferocious “biters” and thus could not be trusted to protect the young calves, or were to aggressive and thus worked the cattle into a frenzy.
Eventually, the breeders produced a dog which is strong, can withstand the rigors of rugged terrain, and quietly protect and herd the stock. Anyone seeking an Australian Cattle Dog Gift might consider the name “Blue Heeler” as they were bred with a breed of dog considered to have a blue color to them and nip at the heels of the cattle they herd.
Australian Cattle Dogs are sturdy, alert, and watchful. The coat is easy to care for. A good bathing and brushing will keep the coat clean and healthy. Bred to herd all day, Australian Cattle Dogs have a lot of energy. Australian Cattle Dogs love their owners and especially love to play with children.
They are an aggressive dog, however, and extremely protective of the cattle and family and naturally suspicious of strangers. They are not necessarily appropriate for those with other pets. Always alert, they are extremely intelligent, watchful, courageous and trustworthy, with an implicit devotion to duty making it an ideal working dog.
An appropriate Australian Cattle Dog Gift for anyone who admires the breed include collectable stamps, collector plates, calendars and lawn ornaments. Metal welcome signs adorn many ranch entrances and charms for bracelets are popular gifts.
For more information, go to Dog Supplies and Gifts
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