Yogis grandson, My Billy; 7 years old.

Brief breed history
The English, who emigrated to Australia brought sheep, cattle and dogs. Collies, that couldn't cope working in the extreme outback terrain and climate. Several crosses with other breeds were tested, rejected and died out.

Around 1840 farmer Tomas S Hall imported two capable cattle herding Blue Merle Highland collies from England and crossed them with the Australian Dingo.

This crossing resulted in dogs who either were blue or red and who also were both physically and mentally tougher.

They were suitable for guarding the shepherds things and herding big flocks of half-wild cattle and for running many miles under extreme circumstances and just as the Dingo; working quietly with a good heeler instinct.

A thin strain of blood from the white Bull terrier was used to gain the right type; equivalent to a small powerful Dingo.

The first breed standard was written in 1897, modified in 1903.

The breed was imported to Sweden in the 1970-ties.

What is characteristic of a Cattledog?
MY (teasing) comment: The Cattledog can perform everything that a German Shepherd dog can do; only twice as fast!

Make a Cattledog want to work WITH you as his guiding star and you will have a great dog!

Just don't forget what they were bred for from the beginning;
if they get kicked by a bull they are supposed to go on and on; again and again; until they have accomplished their work.

The Cattledog is a supple and intelligent breed who wants to please you, his leader!

Books
Den Australske Cattledog. (translated into Danish) Af John & Mary Holmes. ISBN: 87-90828-21-6.

The Complete Australian Cattle Dog. (in English) John and Mary Holmes. ISBN: 0-87605-014-3.

The Good Looking Australian. The Australian Cattle Dog. (in English) Connie Redhead, (a well-known breeder from Australia under the prefix Landmaster). ISBN: 0-7316-2220-0.

These books can be bought through the Swedish Cattledog Club (SACK).