The Australian Cattle Dog's prime function is the movement and control of cattle in both confined and wide, open spaces. Always alert, extremely intelligent, watchful, courageous and trustworthy, this breed is a tribute to the ability of the many Australian stockmen who knew what they wanted in a cattle dog, and, with limited breeding stock at their disposal, set about producing it.

While naturally suspicious of strangers, and still retaining the protective instincts and native cunning which made him such an invaluable guardian of the stockman and his herd, the Australian Cattle Dog nevertheless makes a good pet. Still very much a working dog, even when living in the suburbs, he likes to feel useful and is never happier than when he has a job to do.

The breed's innate ability to think for itself and use initiative has resulted in an animal with exceptional agility of mind and body. Hardy, resilient, with a keen temperament and an inbuilt devotion to duty. the Australian Cattle Dog makes a very loyal companion.

Long walks, plenty of room, and an active lifestyle are prerequisites for keeping this spunky breed of dog at his happiest. The Australian Cattle Dog comes in various colourings of blue, or red speckle, with males standing 46 to 51 cm at the shoulder, and females slightly less. Average weight would be around 23 to 27 kg.

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