Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog
Overview
The Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle, also known as the "Stumpy" came about in the 1840 when two stockmen in different parts of Australia began cross breeding local working dogs with imported drover’s dogs. They discovered that these dogs naturally carried the gene resulting in tailless dogs. The Stumpy was considered the first home-bred invention. Many confuse this breed with the Australian Cattle, that came about from the same ancestors.
Characteristics
The "Stumpy" is a well-rounded working dog with a very tough and cynical rugged appearance. They portray the strong ability to endure strenuously long periods of vigorous work under any unforeseen working conditions.
The breed usually are characterized by being either blue or red in appearance and either mottled or speckled. They also have red and black markings to their coat.
Temperament
The “Stumpy”, as it is commonly known as, possesses a natural predilection for working and controlling cattle. The breed has a fearless and dedicated disposition. Within their line of work, they develop a skill for being attentive, obedient, and vigilant. The Stumpy has a high energy level that requires daily exercise, involving mind stimulating work as well as a secure place to run. Backpacking and hiking are great mind building exercises to help stimulate a healthy body and mind for this breed’s lifetime.
The Stumpy’s temperament can range anywhere from people friendly to bit wary of strangers. They are well responsive to alert owners of strangers on their property.
Shedding
The “Stumpy” requires very minimal grooming. Weekly brushing to remove excess shed hair and dirt. Due to their line of work bathing should be done on a needed basis. Their distinct rough “natural” coat requires no trimming and is roughly 1 to 1 inches. Their coat should lay flat and close to the body, with exception of the slight featherings on the outer thighs.
Lifespan
The Stumpy is considered a relatively healthy bread and can live 12 to 15 years. Due to not only their line of work and energy level, this breed should be tested for hip and elbow dysplasia. Commonly found issues that can progress rapidly due to their strenuous line of work. All pups should also be tested for BEAR hearing as this breed carries the gene for deafness. Progressive Retinal Atrophy and Primary Lens luxation are also an inherited eye problem with this breed. When making the decision on breeding these pups should be DNA screened for these genetic deformities
Breed Information
| Popularity: | # |
| Origin: | Australia |
| Breed Group: | Working Herding (UKC) |
| Size: | Medium |
| Type: | Purebred |
| Life span: | 10-13 years |
| Temperament: | Alert Courageous Devoted Energetic Intelligent Loyal Obedient Watchful |
| Height: | 18-20 inches (46-51 cm) |
| Weight: | 35-50 pounds (16-23 kg) |
| Colors: | Blue Blue & Black Red speckle |
| Litter Size: | 4-6 puppies |
| Puppy Price: | Average $500 - $700 USD |
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Dog names
| Rank | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Max | Bella |
| 2 | Charlie | Lucy |
| 3 | Oliver | Luna |
| 4 | Jax | Lady |
| 5 | Bruno | Princess |
| 6 | Beau | Roxie |
| 7 | Moose | Millie |
| 8 | Rex | Kona |
| 9 | Simba | Phoebe |
| 10 | Tyson | Scout |
| 11 | Ace | Sugar |
| 12 | Gunner | Josie |
| 13 | Brutus | Mimi |
| 14 | Copper | Cocoa |
| 15 | Coco | Lacey |