Jasper came home with me in August 2003 about 6 weeks after I lost my first cattle dog, Sparky. Sometimes known as "Queensland" or "Blue" heelers, Cattle Dogs are a true Australian breed and come in a variety of colors, not just "blue." Although ACD's have been in the US for years, the movie "Mad Max" was probably the first time a majority of American's learned about the breed.

Established in the 1900's to herd the feral and often highly aggressive beef cattle that are raised in near wild conditions on the great "cattle stations" in Australia, ACD's herd by nipping at the heels of the cattle, hence the nickname of "Heelers." Cattle Dogs are hardy, high endurance dogs with an easy-to-care-for short coat, and signature upstanding ears. The breed was created by crossing several kinds of collies with wild dingos. Dalmation was added into the mix later making the Cattle Dog an excellent breed to have around horses, especially if you trail ride.

ACDs are super smart, loyal, protective and hardwired with a strong work ethic. They love to work and can be taught to herd just about anything. They are often called "velcro" dogs for their habit of sticking to their human no matter what.