But what about the Australian Cattle Dog? <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Bred for work with cattle in rough terrains, these dogs are excellent herding dogs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Back then, these dogs would may have used aggressive behavior when herding cattle to drive them on. <\/p>\n\n\n\n For this reason, some people may wonder is this dog still prone to aggressive behavior today?<\/p>\n\n\n\n This article will discuss are Australian Cattle Dogs aggressive, and if yes, what could be the cause of aggression. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n I will also talk about how you can stop any aggressive behavior in a Cattle Dog, and whether this dog makes a good family pet.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n [wpsm_toplist]<\/p>\n\n\n\n Australian Cattle Dogs can potentially be aggressive due to various factors, or in certain situations. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Sometimes, an Australian Cattle Dog can become aggressive toward people and to other dogs<\/a>, or even to children. <\/p>\n\n\n\n When this is the case, it can be a very difficult situation to handle and to manage. If not dealt with as soon as possible, it can quickly get out of control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Of course, aggressiveness can be trained out of a dog. But in some breeds more than others, this may be quite a challenge. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Cattle Dogs are a breed that are prone to being stubborn, and may refuse to listen during training. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It is this stubbornness that may make it difficult to gain control over an aggressive individual. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If an aggressive Cattle Dog is being trained, he may bite or growl in defense if he doesn’t like something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As a matter of fact, biting is not an uncommon behavior in an aggressive Cattle Dog. This is due to this breed being instinctively prone to the act of biting. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This particular instinct comes from the fact that Australian Cattle Dogs would nip or bite the heels of cattle back when they were used as herding dogs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It was for this reason that they were given their name, Blue ‘Heeler’.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nipping or biting can still be displayed by this breed today. If they feel threatened, they could be inclined to bite or even attack a person’s heel, or that of another animal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, everyday biting is an unacceptable behavior and can quickly get out of control if not managed as soon as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n First, let’s take a look at what causes aggression in some Cattle Dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Australian Cattle Dog is a breed which is naturally wary around strangers and incredibly protective around his family. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The presence of people or even animals he doesn’t know or is unfamiliar with can make him feel uneasy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n These dogs are also very territorial, and will watch over and protect their property and home. They do not allow anyone to trespass into their boundaries without a good cause. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If a dog or person crosses into their territory, they will likely display aggressive behavior or frustration. Likely, they will bark<\/a> or may even chase the offender. <\/p>\n\n\n\n But some untrained individuals go too far and will lunge or bite the intruder. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This can be a problem if you have a postman regularly coming to your door, visitors, or other dogs in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cattle Dogs aren’t a breed for everyone. They are not ideal for beginners, or for someone who is very inexperienced with dogs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The Australian Cattle Dog is more intense and hardy than people may think upon first glance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n They need someone as an owner who understands this dog’s needs and exercise requirements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A person getting one of these dogs also needs to be equipped with patience and time for training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Improper training and not enough socialization from puppyhood can only show through aggressive behavior as an adult. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A Blue Heeler puppy can become a naturally controlling and bossy dog if he receives no correction from an early age. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Any dominant behavior can quickly turn into aggression if your Cattle Dog doesn’t like something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Being trained in a harsh way can also have a negative outcome and result in aggression in later life. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A puppy that is shouted at often, beaten, or treat improperly may likely develop aggressive actions as a way of defense. <\/p>\n\n\n\n For example, they can growl at or even bite their owner and other people out of fear or anger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another aspect of owning an Australian Cattle Dog is their requirement of at least an hour or two of exercise each day. <\/p>\n\n\n\n These dogs are highly energetic and active, so relaxing at home all day is out of the question for them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n As well as exercise, these dogs need to stay busy and have tasks to do. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A lack of both can contribute to boredom, restless, or hyperactivity. In turn, these can possibly result in aggressive behavior in some individuals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Aggressiveness caused by improperly caring for your dog and failing to meet his needs should come as no surprise. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Also, never leave your Cattle Dog on his own for many hours every day, or he could become bored and antisocial. He could even develop social anxiety. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This could potentially incline him to show aggression toward others and even toward you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Australian Cattle Dogs do tend to be aggressive with other dogs, especially ones of the same sex. This is due to their dominant and territorial nature. <\/p>\n\n\n\n They are possessive dogs and for that reason are intent on guarding their territory and property. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Cattle Dogs may not only display signs of aggression, but could also fight with a dog that steps into their territory. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This is especially true if the other dog does not surrender. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This breed is also prone to chasing smaller animals due to their high prey drive, including small dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, this doesn’t mean that the Australian Cattle Dog won’t get along with other household dogs. Though they may be bossy at times or dominant, <\/p>\n\n\n\n Cattle Dogs can live in peace with both large and small dogs in the family. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It is always best to raise a Blue Heeler with other pets from puppyhood so that they can grow up together. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Also, Blue Heelers usually get along best with friendly, good-natured dogs that won’t be highly territorial or jealous.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The safest way to get your aggressive Cattle Dog to stop nipping and growling is to expose him to other dogs and people. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Ensure your Cattle Dog wears a muzzle so he cannot nip or bite, and that he is also wearing a harness. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This will give you more control over him without straining on his neck like you would with a leash. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Allow the stranger to pet your Cattle Dog, or allow your Cattle Dog to socialize with the other dog. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It is best to approach another dog by walking parallel to him until he and your Cattle dog meet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This is better than the approach from the front, which can make your Cattle Dog feel confronted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Reward your Australian Cattle Dog for peaceful or friendly behavior toward the other person or dog. <\/p>\n\n\n\n On the other hand, negatively reinforce nipping and growling by tugging on the harness and saying ‘No’ sternly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If this doesn’t work on your Cattle dog, you may use a spray water bottle to spray your dog near the face. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This will be understood as a negative consequence of nipping and growling. It will deter him from repeating the behavior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another method to use is a citronella collar. This will allow you to release a scent of citronella (which dogs dislike) from the collar whenever your Cattle Dog’s aggressive behavior gets out hand. <\/p>\n\n\n\n As a result, he will associate nipping and growling with the unpleasant scent, and will be more likely to stop it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Not giving your Cattle Dog adequate exercise and mental stimulation may make him more prone to nipping and growling. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This is because a Cattle Dog that doesn’t receive enough physical activity may grow restless and may be prone to aggression. <\/p>\n\n\n\n He may also release his energy on others by nipping and chasing them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Additionally, not providing Cattle Dogs with toys and interactive games may make them bored and grumpy – and therefore aggressive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The bite force of an average Australian Cattle Dog is 210 PSI (pounds per square inch). <\/p>\n\n\n\n This is a rather high bite force for a dog, which deems the Blue Heeler as very strong. <\/p>\n\n\n\n For this reason, it is important to properly train and teach your Cattle Dog obedience from early on, and be wary of his strong prey drive. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This is because an Australian Cattle Dog’s nipping or biting could potentially injure another dog, especially one much smaller in size.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAre Australian Cattle Dogs (Blue Heelers) Aggressive?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/blue-heeler-16-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhat Causes Aggression In Some Cattle Dogs?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/blue-heeler-7-1024x682.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNatural Instincts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Improper Training<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Boredom And Insufficient Exercise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Are Australian Cattle Dogs Aggressive With Other Dogs?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/blue-heeler-lic-1024x764.jpg\")
How To Stop Cattle Dogs From Nipping And Growling?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/australian-cattle-dog-lic-1024x666.jpg\")
Expose Them To Other People And Dogs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Negatively Reinforce Nipping And Growling<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Provide Physical Activity And Mental Stimulation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
What Is The Bite Force Of An Australian Cattle Dog?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Is An Australian Cattle Dog A Good Family Pet?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n