Did you know?
Australia
is home to the world’s longest fence, “the Dog Fence”, also known as the Dingo Barrier Fence.
Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog
He has affection and character, he can enjoy equally the field and the fireside … a good fellow. – Leigh Hunt
Maryheather Akubra Mist
“Kuby”
The Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog was developed by a drover named John Timmins who drove large herds of cattle to market in Sydney, Australian. He needed a dog capable of working big, strong, wild cattle over long distances through the inhospitable Australian bush. Timmins was known for his ability with working dogs and over time, he crossed the wild Australian Dingo with a black and white naturally bobtailed dog known as a Smithfield.
The Smithfield hailed from the Smithfield markets in England and was a great herder but he didn’t do well in the Australian climate. The resulting “Timmins Biters” were, later on, crossed with the blue merle smooth-coated collie to soften their bite and introduce some manners while keeping the herding instinct intact.
The Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog is one of the most heat tolerant dogs. He is capable of working hours in temperatures that would be fatal for other breeds.
Photos displayed courtesy of Margaret Byron, Diablotin Kennel, British Columbia
Although he appears similar to his cousin, the Australian Cattle Dog, the Stumpy is the original Australian Working Dog. He actually pre-dates the ACD by almost 50 years. The Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog is a sturdy, strong dog with great stamina and the endurance to work for long periods under every possible condition. He has a double coat that is short, straight, and dense and blue or blue mottled in colour, or an even red speckle all over. For the “blue”, black markings may be present on the body and for the “red speckle”, red patches may be present on the body. Muscular and powerful, this dog stands up to 20 inches (51 cm) tall at the shoulder and is naturally bobtailed.
Uncommon in the show ring, the Stumpy is famous in the country for his inborn ability to control cattle. His loyalty, courage, and strength are legendary. The Stumpy has a well developed sense of personal space that should be respected. Naturally wary and suspicious of strangers, he makes an alert watchdog and watchful guardian of his master, his family, his property, and his herd. He is confident, outgoing, and obedient dog who is very capable of independent thought and quick reactions. However, he was bred to work along side his master and wants and needs his master’s attention.
The Stumpy is generally a one-owner dog who will interact well with other members of the family. Like any other dog, training and socialization should begin early for the development of good manners.
The Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog is an tireless worker who has the stamina to cover up to 20 kilometres a day while “at work”. Therefore, he is happiest in a rural or semi-rural environment where he has lots of outdoor activities to channel energy. He is very active so daily exercise is mandatory, as is a fenced yard.
Maryheather Akubra Mist
“Kuby”
CKC Breed Standard
