The objective of the Australian Stumpy Tail Cattled Dog is to promote responsible dog ownership.
About Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog
Background
The Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog breed began evolving in the early 1830s because of the need for a dog that could work cattle in Australias very harsh environment. The breed that we see today is the result of many years of careful thought and selective breeding by dedicated people. Three breeds of dog went into the making of the "Stumpy". First there was the crossing of the Dingo with an English breed of dog called the Smithfield (these dogs were naturally bob-tailed) which is where the gene comes from that is still present in the "Stumpy" today. Then the progeny from these matings were crossed with the blue merle Smooth Collie or German Coolie and so a breed of dog was born that cattlemen, then and today, swear is the best working dog in the world.
Average Lifespan
When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime. Stumpy Tail Cattle Dogs live until 10 to 15 years of age.
Breed Personality/Characteristics/Temperament
The "Stumpy" is a loyal, courageous and devoted animal that possesses natural aptitude in the working and control of cattle. It is suspicious of strangers and will protect its family and possessions with its life. It is not an aggressive dog but if pushed will not back down without a fight. The "Stumpy" loves nothing better than to be able to spend time in the company of its owner, doing whatever is asked of it. Although the "Stumpy" can sometimes be very stubborn, an owner should always be firm without being cruel, as the "Stumpy" does not tolerate harsh treatment.
Compatibility with other pets
The "Stumpy" will get along with other animals in a household as long as they are introduced slowly and without tension. The best way to do this is by allowing animals to see and smell each other through a wire fence for a few weeks, until they realise that they pose no threat to each other.
Care Requirements
Even though the "Stumpy" is a working dog, it does well in a suburban household as long as its exercise requirements (and need for mental stimulation) are met. Obedience training with the "Stumpy" is a necessity as its intelligence needs harnessing, so that it doesnt dream up activites for itself - such as digging tunnels, pulling washing from the line, pruning trees, jumping fences etc! The "Stumpy" must be socialised with other animals and people from an early age and throughout its life. The breed has a naturally short coat which only requires five minutes daily grooming.
Please Take Note
The "Stumpy" can be very vocal at times, so from the outset the dog should be taught that barking is not allowed, unless there really is someting to bark about. While not usually a fence jumper, the "Stumpy" can be quite an accomplished hurdler when it wants, so if you have low fences a dog pen may need to be built for those times when you wont be home.
Ideal Owner/s
The ideal owner for the "Stumpy" should be someone who appreciates an active dog. While these dogs adore children, they should not be left together unsupervised. Elderly people may find the "Stumpy" a bit of a handful.
In Conclusion
Now you know a little about the Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog and have decided this is the dog for you or you want more information, make contact with the breed club or your State controlling body for purebred dogs. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog shows where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs.
The ANKC breed standard for the Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog
