FluffyWA
Book

Positive training · From eight weeks

Australian Cattle Dog (Blue/Red Heeler) Puppy Training Manual

From 8 Weeks

Australian Cattle Dog: channel movement-control instincts into structured herding-ball play and calm thinking.

29 chapters · English / 中文

Watercolour illustration of an Australian Cattle Dog standing alert beside a herding ball in a dusty farm paddock with a fence, water tank and windmill
Australian Cattle Dog: channel movement-control instincts into structured herding-ball play and calm thinking.

Breed profile

Training group
Herding and cattle dogs
Origin
The Australian Cattle Dog originated in Australia as a cattle-droving working dog; its working sequence retains a strong grip used at cattle heels.
Shoulder height
43–51 cm
Weight
15–22 kg
Coat
Short double coat
Coat care
Build calm acceptance of brushing, coat checks, airflow and dryer noise, with voluntary paw and whole-body handling.
Drive keywords
Controlling movement · Endurance · Strong family attachment and guarding tendency
Handling practice
Condition short-double-coat brushing, coat checks, airflow and dryer noise in gradual, voluntary steps. · Practise calm paw, toe-space, ear and whole-body checks so routine care does not depend on one family member restraining the dog.

General reference ranges only; individual dogs vary considerably.

Teach the equipment before the walk

Lead skills & going outside

The first month is not about reaching the park. It is about making the equipment comfortable and teaching that a loose lead makes the world move.

Begin indoors in three steps

  1. Desensitise the fit Put the harness on, immediately deliver food, and remove it after five seconds.
  2. Drag the lead under supervision Let the puppy move indoors with the lead attached while an adult watches continuously to prevent tangling.
  3. Play the follow game Walk a few steps and mark whenever the puppy chooses to follow beside you.
Watercolour comparison of a loose lead and a tight lead
LOOSE LEASH = a relaxed J-shaped lead and continued movement; TIGHT LEASH = pulling and forward movement stops.

Go out safely before vaccination is complete

Ask your veterinarian which locations and ground surfaces are appropriate for current local disease conditions.

Training with FluffyWA

Day school, board & train and private sessions are quoted after a chat, and boarding or daycare can be booked online with live prices.

Book a staySee live prices