Australian Shepherds as Cattle Dogs
Bradshaw Cattle Company loves to utilize herding, or "working, dogs as a means of low-stress handling of our cattle. Here are some of the reasons why Australian Shepherds are our favorite herding breed to work with.
Characteristics of the Australian Shepherd:
-Energetic: The Australian shepherd has a high level of energy which allows them to work long hours without tiring when needing to push or herd a large number of cattle
-Trainable: Typically the Aussie is a self-trainer with a natural instinct to herd. We have two Aussies at the ranch a male, Cash, and a female, Dixie. From a young age, both dogs had a tendency to herd not only small animals such as squirrels and other dogs, but also children. When exposed to animals at a young age, when they feel confident in themselves, they will begin to train themselves on how to herd properly and efficiently.
-Intelligent: This characteristic goes hand in hand with train-ability. Their high intelligence allows them to be trained to understand specific instruction for herding purposes, but also for in the home. They need regular and challenging exercise through mental stimulation in order to allow their intelligent needs to be met. They can become restless without a "job" or regular attention causing them to self stimulate in ways that can be considered destructive to the owner.
-Dedication: The Australian shepherd is not only dedicated to his/her family, but also to the task that you give them. They can at times be stubborn, which for herding and working is a true asset. Stubbornness in the home can be trained away creating a very well behaved companion. They are very work-oriented and without being able to satisfy this, they can be destructive. They are meant to be farm dogs needing large areas to run and remain active in, making them the perfect working dog. This breed is also very loyal. They tend to stay very near their owner unless ordered to move away.
-Agile: Their agility allows them to truly control the movements of a herd to your commands when trained properly. They are able to quickly change directions to pick up any animal that tries to stray from the herd making for an easier process for the owner or rancher. Agility training is an area where the Australian Shepherd will succeed and enjoy as a means of stimulation not only for body, but also mind.
-Obedient: When an owner correctly cares for their Aussie, they are willing to listen to commands even when they are distracted. They can relate to strong commands allowing one command to mean different things, such as: "Stop", when said calmly can mean slow down your herding, but when said with a firm tone can mean stop immediately.
-Docked: Australian Shepherds tails should all be docked. The reason for this is their safety. As their job is to herd, this may require them to run through or under barb wire fencing. If their tails are not docked this could cause them to get caught and injured. The other imperative reason is to protect them from the livestock they are herding as their tails could be trampled or stepped on if they are not docked. Docking allows the Aussie to more efficiently and safely complete his job.
-Animated: Both our dogs, Cash and Dixie, are very animated and even at times seem to talk to you. They cuddle when they feel you are not happy and nudge when they are feeling playful. This characteristic does not help with herding, but it does make them a great family pet. Their animation and attentive, loyal and playful manner also make them great with children when they are raised around them.
What do cattle dogs herd?
Our dogs herd our cattle raised at the ranch for feeder or breeding purposes. However, Australian shepherds are capable of herding any livestock including sheep, pigs, birds, and any other herds of animals. Click here to see the livestock that Cash and Dixie herd on a regular basis as part of our rotational grazing program.
How big do Australian Shepherds get?
Typically the male will reach a height between 20-30" and a weight of 55-70 lbs while the female will reach a height between 18-21" and a weight of 35-55 lbs.
How long does the Australian Shepherd live?
A healthy and well taken care of Aussie should have the life expectancy of 13-15 years if bought from a responsible breeder and all breeding health is sound.
