Find out all about Australian Cattle Dogs and their common health conditions, and then compare pet insurance options from some of Australia’s leading insurers.
Fact checked
$1,500–$10,000+
43cm-51cm
15kg - 22kg
Energetic, loyal, obedient
Short dense double coat
Very high
Yes
13 - 16 years
The Australian Cattle Dog is also known as the Blue Heeler or Queensland Heeler. They were bred in the late 1800’s to be working dogs, and are distantly related to the dingo, although they also have Dalmatian, Collie and Kelpie DNA in their genetic makeup. These dogs are highly energetic and were originally used for herding sheep and cattle, which they continue to do to this day. Although they are gentle dogs, as they have a tendency to nip and chase anything that moves they should never be left unsupervised with young children or small pets. They have a short, dense coat that requires minimal grooming.
Australian Cattle Dogs are highly intelligent, alert, and excel in obedience and agility activities. Dogs with an award-winning pedigree can sell for tens of thousands of dollars, as they are highly valued as working dogs. They are known for their loyalty and protective nature. Early socialisation and consistent training are crucial, and they are best suited for rural families with a great deal of space who can provide ample exercise and mental stimulation. They are not suitable for suburban backyard living due to their high energy level and exercise requirements.
Hip dysplasia: A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop correctly, leading to pain and mobility issues.
Elbow dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, this condition affects the elbow joint, causing discomfort and lameness.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): An inherited eye disorder causing gradual vision loss and eventual blindness.
Deafness: Some Australian Cattle Dogs may inherit congenital deafness, severely affecting their hearing, although this trait has largely been bred out now.
Patellar Luxation: The kneecap can occasionally dislocate, resulting in temporary lameness.
Their strong herding instincts may lead them to chase and nip at moving objects, including people's heels. Owners should provide outlets for their energy and mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related behaviour which can include destructive chewing and digging.
Most Australians can expect to pay between $20 and $60 a month for pet insurance. There are many factors that can influence the cost of pet insurance for your Australian Cattle Dog, including the following:
This is the most basic type of pet insurance, covering costs for accidental injuries such as car accidents, poisoning, burns, fractures, snake and spider bites, but not illnesses and other conditions.
This type of insurance provides cover for accidental injuries as well as illnesses like cancer, gastrointestinal problems and eye, ear and skin conditions, but not routine care for your pet.
This offers the highest level of protection, covering accident and illness and potentially routine care such as vaccinations, dental care, worm and flea treatments and microchipping.
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© Copyright 2024 Quantum Savvy Pty Ltd T/as Savvy. All Rights Reserved.
Quantum Savvy Pty Ltd (ABN 78 660 493 194) trades as Savvy and operates as an Authorised Credit Representative 541339 of Australian Credit Licence 414426 (AFAS Group Pty Ltd, ABN 12 134 138 686). We are one of Australia’s leading financial comparison sites and have been helping Australians make savvy decisions when it comes to their money for over a decade.
We’re partnered with lenders, insurers and other financial institutions who compensate us for business initiated through our website. We earn a commission each time a customer chooses or buys a product advertised on our site, which you can find out more about here, as well as in our credit guide for asset finance. It’s also crucial to read the terms and conditions, Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or credit guide of our partners before signing up for your chosen product. However, the compensation we receive doesn’t impact the content written and published on our website, as our writing team exercises full editorial independence.
For more information about us and how we conduct our business, you can read our privacy policy and terms of use.
