Longevity
Life expectancy
Its life expectancy is generally between 10 and 13 years. A suitable diet, regular activity without excess, maintaining an optimal weight and preventive monitoring help preserve its quality of life over the years.
Build
A robust breed?
Rustic and hardy, this dog was selected to work outdoors over vast territories. Its double, waterproof coat protects it effectively, and its athletic build allows it to sustain prolonged effort. This sturdiness does not exempt it from screening for hereditary conditions known in the breed.
Watch points
What to watch for
Particular attention must be paid to hearing, vision and locomotion. Choosing a breeder that carries out the recommended screenings reduces the risks without eliminating them, while a prompt consultation is required in the event of any decreased reaction to sounds, visual discomfort, lameness or difficulty getting up.
Congenital deafness : Unilateral or bilateral deafness can affect the breed; the BAER hearing test allows objective screening.
Progressive retinal atrophy : This hereditary disease causes a progressive deterioration of vision and can lead to blindness.
Hip dysplasia : Poor congruence of the joint can cause pain, lameness and osteoarthritis, with expression influenced by genetics and the environment.
Climate
Cold and heat tolerance
Thanks to its dense undercoat and waterproof topcoat, the Australian Cattle Dog tolerates cold as well as moderate heat. It must nevertheless have water, shade and rest periods in hot weather, with activities postponed to cooler hours. Its coat must not be clipped, as it contributes to its thermal protection.
Weight
Tendency to gain weight
Very active, the Australian Cattle Dog generally maintains an athletic build when its intake matches its expenditure. Rations must nevertheless be adjusted according to age, neutering, workload level and body condition. Treats are included in the daily ration and weight must be monitored regularly in order to limit the load on the joints.
Daily life
Good habits to keep it healthy
- Have the puppy's hearing checked with a BAER test.
- Request eye and joint screening tests for the breeding dogs.
- Check the eyes, ears and paw pads after outings.
- Brush the coat regularly, more during shedding periods.
- Maintain a varied daily activity without overloading the growing puppy.
- Consult the veterinarian at least once a year.
Vaccination
Australian Cattle Dog vaccines: vaccination schedule
Which vaccines for a Australian Cattle Dog? Like all cats, the Australian Cattle Dog receives essential vaccines from 8 weeks old: Typhus (panleukopenia) and Coryza. The kitten primary vaccination for Australian Cattle Dog is given in several injections 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year, even if it lives in an apartment. Depending on its lifestyle (outdoor access, multi-cat household, shows, travel), your veterinarian may complete the protocol with vaccines against Feline leukemia (FeLV), Rabies and Chlamydiosis.
| Vaccine | Primary series | First booster | Then | Who for? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Typhus (panleukopenia)Core Feline panleukopenia (cat parvovirus) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
CoryzaCore Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
Feline leukemia (FeLV)Lifestyle-based Feline leukemia virus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Outdoor cats, cats living in a group or in a cattery |
RabiesLifestyle-based Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, cat shows and most boarding kennels |
ChlamydiosisLifestyle-based Chlamydia felis (contagious conjunctivitis) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Cats living in groups, catteries, show cats |
Adult Australian Cattle Dog vaccine boosters are annual for cat flu and leukemia if it goes outdoors; for panleukopenia, a booster every three years is often sufficient after the first booster. Your veterinarian will adjust the schedule to your cat’s lifestyle.
Which boosters for your Australian Cattle Dog?
Enter your companion’s age: we list the vaccines to do now and the next boosters.
Adopting well
Adopting a healthy Australian Cattle Dog
Before breeding, breeding dogs should undergo a hearing examination by BAER test, regular ophthalmological screening and the available genetic tests for progressive retinal atrophy. A radiographic evaluation of the hips and, depending on the recommendations of the breed club and the veterinarian, of the elbows is also relevant. Routine follow-up includes vaccinations, parasite prevention, dental check-up and annual clinical examination.
This information is provided for guidance only and does not replace a veterinarian’s advice. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, consult a professional.
