Are Australian Cattle Dogs Good with Children?
YES. Australian Cattle Dogs can get along fine with children if they are properly socialized, especially as puppies. Also, you must take their inherited herding traits into consideration during basic training.
What are the Inherited Herding Traits of Australian Cattle Dogs?
Here Are 5 Important Traits to keep in mind when asking are Australian Cattle Dogs Good with Children.
Australian Cattle Dogs were selectively bred to:
- Chase
- Be Controlling
- Nip
- Be Cautious
- Be Protective
Consider the background of this breed. They were developed in the harsh environment of Australia’s cattle country. They were bred to help the drovers move and protect herds, sometimes very unwilling herds.
From the early breeder’s standpoint, it was the practice to breed the best to the best. But how do you recognize the best? That’s easy.
They were the ones who were getting the job done, the ones who could get the runaway to turn around and head back to the herd. When danger approached, they were the ones who stood their ground at any cost.
Here are 5 things when considering are Australian Cattle Dogs Good with Children?
1. The Australian Cattle Dog Was Bred to Chase
If you have ever watched a herding dog work, you are familiar with the tenacity with which they do their job. The first thing you will notice is how they get around the cattle, first one side, then the other.
At the command of their handler, they are directed to chase the cattle in the chosen direction.
They can hardly wait for that command because of their innate desire to chase anything that moves. They do not have to be taught to chase something!
2. The Australian Cattle Dog Was Bred to Be Controlling
When half of the herd is going one direction, and half are going another, it is up to the dogs to follow the commands of the drover in order to get the entire herd where it belongs.
This doesn’t happen unless the dogs are very good at controlling even the worst of the herd. Dogs that did not have the desire or ability to be controlling would not have lasted long, and would not have been part of the breeding stock.
3. The Australian Cattle Dog Was Bred to Nip
This is where they get their name “Heelers.” The way to control those who are unwilling to move is to nip at their heels. That is their way of offering a bit of encouragement to move and move now!
The nip that they developed was quite a bit different than the bite of dogs that were bred to fight or take down a wild animal. (Fighting dogs don’t let go)
The heeler’s nip needed to be quick, low to the ground, and followed by a real fast get-a-way, a move to safety to avoid flying hooves.
4. The Australian Cattle Dog Was Bred to Be Cautious
The first step in being able to protect yourself, or someone else, from danger, is to recognize when and where there is danger. This begins with being cautious.
Being cautious and aware of your surroundings will give you advanced notice whenever there is trouble. The Australian Cattle Dog is cautious and totally aware of his surroundings. Add to this his suspiciousness, and he will hardly ever be taken by surprise when danger is afoot.
5. The Australian Cattle Dog Was Bred to Be Protective
Dogs that were the most help to their owners would have been the ones used as breeding stock. The ones who were the best at controlling and protecting the herd would have had the chance to pass on their genetics to the next generation of puppies.
So, as time went on, generation after generation, the Australian Cattle Dog excelled at the job that was necessary, the job that the drovers depended on him to perform. He became the answer to the drover’s needs.
So, How Does All of This Affect The Australian Cattle Dogs Relationship with Children?
Are Australian Cattle Dogs Good with Children?
For 200 years, these inherited characteristics have molded the day to day actions and reactions of Australian Cattle Dog.
It is amazing to hear owners from different parts of the country discussing their Heelers and comparing the traits that they have in common. Yet, they are so much different from other dog breeds.
Being extremely intelligent and independent, the Australian Cattle Dog has learned to make decisions on his own. He is very good at problem-solving and loves to be in charge.
So, whenever he is playing, expect him to exhibit those same personality traits.
Especially when playing with children, expect the chaser to chase and the heeler to heel. Expect the nipper to nip and the controller to control. Expect the Australian Cattle Dog to be exactly what he is.
If you are thinking about getting one, examine yourself first. Can you handle one? Can you learn to handle one? If the answers are yes, you will never be sorry!
To answer “Are Australian Cattle Dogs Good with Children?” so much depends on socialization and training.
So, Are Australian Cattle Dogs Good with Children?
Australian Cattle Dogs may not be the best breed to choose if you are looking for a dog who will spend most of his time just laying around cuddling.
But, if you are wanting to get outside and have some fun, he is an excellent choice. Just be aware of his natural traits and train accordingly.
A good understanding of no and a really good recall will be helpful to deter his nipping.
A solid down also will help when he gets too rambunctious, and a stay will keep him from finding trouble.
Don’t underestimate the importance of basic obedience training and socialization when asking are Australian Cattle Dogs Good with Children.
One Final Thought
Never, ever, under any circumstances leave small children unattended with any dog.
- Do not let little children crawl on dogs.
- Do not let little children pinch or pull on dogs.
- Also, do not let little children get near them while they eat.