

Many Australian Cattle Dogs are dominant or aggressive toward other dogs of the same sex. Without careful socialization, they may be suspicious of everyone, which is very difficult to live with. Young Cattle Dogs need to be cheerfully introduced to friendly people so that they learn to recognize the normal behaviors of "good guys." Then they can recognize the difference when someone really does act abnormally. Australian Cattle Dogs are typically reserved with strangers, but their reserve can veer into suspiciousness if you don't socialize them properly. To make matters worse, some Cattle Dogs have intense, high-pitched barks that can set your teeth on edge.

This breed should should not be left outside in your yard, unsupervised. Australian Cattle Dogs are often too quick to sound the alarm at every new sight and sound. Bored Cattle Dogs are famous for chewing through drywall, ripping the stuffing out of sofas, and turning your yard into a moonscape of giant craters. I do not recommend this breed if you don't have the time or inclination to take your dog hiking or swimming, or to get involved in herding, or agility (obstacle course), or advanced obedience, or tracking, or a similar canine activity. Trying to suppress these "hardwired" behaviors, without providing alternate outlets for their high energy level, is unfair to the dog. Their working behaviors (chasing, nipping, barking, territorial instincts toward other animals) are inappropriate in a normal household setting. Australian Cattle Dogs were never intended to be simply household pets. Providing enough exercise and mental stimulation.If I was considering a Queensland Heeler, I would be most concerned about. More traits and characteristics of the Australian Cattle Dog Finally, you can avoid some negative traits by training your Australian Cattle Dog to respect you and by following the 11-step care program in my book, 11 Things You Must Do Right To Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy.Unfortunately, you usually can't tell whether a puppy has inherited temperament or health problems until he grows up. If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the right breeder and the right puppy.With an adult dog, you can easily see what you're getting, and plenty of adult Cattle Dogs have already proven themselves not to have negative characteristics. You can avoid some negative traits by choosing an ADULT dog from an animal shelter or rescue group.Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training. Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Potential for excessive barking, often in a high-pitched voiceĪn Australian Cattle Dog may not be right for you.Chasing and nipping at things that move: children, joggers, other animals, bikes, cars.Strong-willed mind of his own, requiring a confident owner who can take charge.Destructiveness when bored or not exercised enough.


