The Australian Cattle Dog is a breed that enjoys and 'needs' to be active, physically and mentally. If you are looking for a couch potato type or a dog you can just leave outdoors all the time then neither you nor your average ACD will be happy together. Australian Cattle Dogs LOVE to be busy and most owners are very involved in various activities that are ideal for this breed. First and foremost is their incredible natural instinct for herding--the kids, cars, bikes, skateboards (get the picture?)
For those that do not have the livestock to actively work every day there is herding training - even just to learn obedience, agility, flyball and frisbee, not to mention the conformation show ring. This breed loves long hikes and any activity that involves quick thinking and teamwork. I fell in love with this breed as they are thinking dogs and smarter then the average dog you will meet. For this reason they do not do well in homes that just want a dog to hang out and not be involved with.
I do not care to send my pups to a home where they will live in a kennel run, outdoors all the time, etc. Australian Cattle Dogs can become bored and destructive. Know the breed before adding one to your home and family; join some ACD related lists to discuss and learn about the breed!! They do very well as a family pet as long as the owner is willing to dedicate time, daily walks and play plus exercise. Believe me...YOU will tire out long before they do when it comes to tossing the frisbee, tennis ball, etc. Sticks NOT suggested due to the horror stories of dogs jumping in the air and having sticks cut their mouths or worse. Good suggestions for herding instinct breeds is also a "boomer" ball, medium size HEAVY plastic ball found in feed stores and pet supply shops.
For those interested in doing AKC activities please check my LINKS page for LOOKING FOR A REGISTERED AUSTRALIAN CATTLE DOG? This site explains what to look for regarding registries. Not all registries are recognized and this will explain more about this.
These dogs are often referred to as "velcro" dogs, if you can't handle a dog underfoot, or in my case ON my foot, or wanting to go EVERYWHERE you go - then you do not want an ACD. They are true working dogs yet also people dogs and need to be with their family or they can become destructive and loud. If you are looking for a good buddy that can go on long walks, hikes, trail rides and jogging once old enough, ACDs are great dogs to have by your side. Oh..another aspect of the ACD..some, not all, have this very distinctive SHRIEK when they bark. Once you hear it you will know it!
There is much information available on the net and several books on the breed. Check out my LINKS page for breed and health information, message lists to join and meet others that admire the breed. Join myself and many others at a wonderful discussion/chat site at my favorite ACD site on the web http://www.aucado.us/
