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Herding Group

Australian Cattle Dog

IntelligentLoyalTenacious
Australian Cattle Dog

Height

18-20 inches (male), 17-19 inches (female)

Weight

35-50 pounds

Life Expectancy

12-16 years

Size

Medium

About the Australian Cattle Dog

Australian Cattle Dogs are smart, loyal herding dogs best for active owners who want daily exercise, mental work, and serious training drive.

The Good

  • Very trainable when you like structure, repetition, and daily engagement
  • Medium size can feel more manageable than a giant or heavyweight working breed
  • Often deeply loyal to owners who want an active, involved dog

The Bad

  • High energy and mental stimulation needs make apartment life harder without a serious routine
  • Herding instincts and intensity can be a rough fit for homes wanting an easygoing family dog
  • Owners still need a realistic plan for enrichment, boundaries, and breed-linked health screening

Is this dog right for you?

Best match for...

Families
SheddingModerate
EnergyHigh
TrainingHigh

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Breed Traits

Energy Level5/5
Trainability5/5
Health Concerns2/5
Barking Tendency2/5
Good with Kids3/5
Good with Dogs3/5