🐶 Australian Cattle Dog (Blue Heeler) Adoption & Rehoming
Looking to adopt a smart, loyal, high-energy companion? Whether you call them Australian Cattle Dogs or Blue Heelers, these working dogs are among the most devoted and intelligent breeds you’ll ever meet.
🐾 Adopt an Australian Cattle Dog
🏡 Rehome an Australian Cattle Dog
Why Adopt an Australian Cattle Dog Through Pet Rehoming Network?
Choosing to adopt an Australian Cattle Dog (or Blue Heeler) through Pet Rehoming Network means giving a dog a second chance at a safe, loving home—while avoiding the stress of shelters and the unknowns of classifieds.
We specialize in private, gentle adoptions that place dogs directly from their current family into the hearts and homes of carefully screened adopters. Every dog in our program is valued, vetted, and matched based on compatibility—not just availability.
What Makes Our Adoption Process Different?
- ✔️ Get to Know the Dog: Adopters have the opportunity to speak directly with the dog’s owner to learn about their health, behavior, personality, and compatibility with their home and lifestyle.
- ✔️ Personalized Matchmaking: We take time to match the right dog with the right adopter—no rushed decisions.
- ✔️ Home-to-Home Placement: Dogs stay with their current family until a match is found, reducing trauma and stress.
- ✔️ Support Throughout: We’re here to guide you during and after adoption—because the transition matters.
- ✔️ A Humane Alternative to Shelters: Our dogs come from loving homes, and we help ensure they go to the same.
By adopting through Pet Rehoming Network, you’re not just adding a dog to your life—you’re continuing a story of love, trust, and second chances. 🐶
🐕 Adoptable Australian Cattle Dogs (Blue Heelers)
Looking to adopt a smart, loyal Australian Cattle Dog? Browse the dogs and puppies currently available for adoption through our private rehoming service below.
These dogs are being rehomed by their families, not placed in shelters. You’ll be able to learn all about each dog directly from the people who know them best.
Adorable Blue Heeler For Adoption in Reno (Round Mountain) Nevada – Meet Louie
Looking for a Blue heeler dog for adoption in Reno (Round Mountain), NV? Louie would love to be considered for…
Collie Australian Cattle Dog Mix For Adoption in Regina SK – Meet Peter
Looking for a Collie Australian Cattle Dog mix for adoption in Regina, SK? Peter would love to be considered for…
Boston Terrier Blue Heeler Mix Dog For Adoption in Indianapolis (Zionsville) IN – Meet Ellie
Looking for a Boston Terrier Australian Cattledog Mix dog for adoption near Indianapolis in Zionsville, IN? Ellie would love to…
Australian Cattle Dog (Heeler) Australian Shepherd (Aussie) Bernese Mountain Dog Mix for Adoption in Rockport WA – Meet Trudy
Meet Trudy, an enchanting one-year-old Australian Cattle Dog (Heeler), Australian Shepherd (Aussie), and Bernese Mountain Dog mix eagerly waiting for her forever home in Rockport, Washington. This delightful 35-pound bundle of energy is a perfect blend of intelligence, loyalty, and playful spirit, making her an ideal companion for an active family or individual. Trudy thrives in the great outdoors, whether hiking, playing fetch, or exploring. While she loves children and gets along with cats, she prefers to be the sole canine star in the household. Trudy’s current owners are heartbroken to rehome her due to circumstances beyond their control, but they hope to find a loving family ready to embrace her vibrant personality. If you’re ready for a devoted friend and adventure partner, Trudy is eager to fill your life with joy and unconditional love. Adopt Trudy today and let her boundless energy and affection brighten your days.
Australian Shepherd Cattle Dog ACD Red Heeler Aussie Mix Dog for Adoption in Kansas City MO – Meet Red
Discover the joy of companionship with Red, a delightful Australian Shepherd Red Heeler mix available for adoption in Kansas City, MO. At just two years old and 50 pounds, Red is a blend of intelligence, affection, and energy, perfect for active families or life on a farm. His striking red coat and playful nature make him a charming addition to any home. While Red thrives on human interaction, he requires some patience when socializing with other pets. Up-to-date on vaccinations and neutered, Red is ready to bring unconditional love to his new forever family. Don’t miss the chance to welcome this loyal companion into your life—submit your meeting request today and let Red show you the warmth and joy of having a devoted furry friend.
Amazing Australian Cattle Dog (Blue Heeler) Puppy For Adoption in Calgary AB – Meet Pepper
Looking for a Australian Cattle Dog (Blue Heeler) Mix puppy for adoption in Calgary, Alberta? Meet Pepper, a 9-month-old pup…
1 Genius German Australian Shepherd Cattle Dog Mix Dog For Adoption in Austin Texas – Meet Roo
Looking for a fully trained German Shepherd, Australian Shepherd, Blue Heeler mix dog for adoption in Austin, TX? Immerse yourself…
Dalmatian Blue Heeler Mix Dog For Adoption in Las Vegas, Nevada – Meet Dot
This Dalmatian is no longer available, but we often have other Dalmatians for adoption looking for loving families. 🌟 Looking to adopt…
ADOPTED Black Labrador Retriever Blue Heeler Mix Lethbridge (Coutts) Alberta – Meet Dyson
Looking for a Black Labrador Retriever Australian Cattle Dog mix dog for adoption near Lethbridge in Coutts, Alberta? An incredibly hansdome and devoted young dog, Dyson has so many special qualities that endear him to everyone he meets. Dyson would love to be considered for the position of your cherished family companion.
Whether you live in Lethbridge, Calgary, Medicine Hat, Montana or anywhere within a reasonable distance, and looking for an amazing companion and friend, Dyson could be your dream dog.
Australian Cattle Dog Mix For Adoption in Greensboro (Southmont) NC – Supplies Included – Adopt Treasure
Looking for a Brittany Spaniel Pitbull Mix Dog to adopt in Southmont, NC, near Greensboro, Winston-Salem and Charlotte? Just 1-2yrs years old and weighing 40 lbs, Treasure has been housebroken and crate trained and is good with Older Children, Dogs, Cats, and Small Animals.
Treasure arrived on his foster owner’s property several months ago, and has been lovingly cared-for in the hope that a new home can be found for this very deserving dog. Throughout this time, Treasure has been discovered to be an amazing dog, with so many characteristics that make him such a special companion. It is unthinkable that someone would abandon this dog in the country. However, as the old adage goes: “One person’s trash is another’s treasure”, and that is where he gets his name.
Treasure’s foster owner describes him as follows:
Calm yet always ready to play (fetch, chase, walking). Very loyal, meaning, the dog wants to go with his master everywhere, including riding in a pickup truck to take the trash to the Recycle Center. Gentle, yet protective of his family, as the dog chases all wildlife out of our yard. He is “skittish” of anyone unfamiliar approaching his house until his master says it’s ok. The dog NEVER barks – in the months I have fostered him the dog has ONLY barked ONCE – at the lawnmower in April, because he thought the riding mower was hurting me since it was so loud. Very attentive to his master – this dog learns very quickly what to do and not to do. Enjoys snuggling, although I don’t snuggle with him, the dog always tries to snuggle with me.
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ADOPT TREASURE BY VISITING HIS ADOPTION STORY PAGE USING THE LINK BELOW:
Blue-Eyed Australian Cattle Dog Siberian Husky Mix Dog For Adoption in Atlanta Georgia – Supplies Included – Adopt Amelia
Looking for an Australian Cattle Dog Mix for adoption in Atlanta, Georgia? A Siberian Husky, perhaps? Amelia combines the best…
Sweet Australian Cattle Dog for Adoption in San Jose CA – Supplies Included – Adopt Stevie
Have you been looking for a Australian Cattle Dog dog for adoption in San Jose, CA and area?
Pet Rehoming Network is pleased to present Stevie, a very special pet in need of a loving, forever home.
Stevie is healthy and has been fixed, is up to date on shots and micro-chipped. This Australian Cattle Dog dog has a loving personality and is good with children, new people, and dogs.
Stevie will be rehomed with supplies and vet records. Adopt this deserving Australian Cattle Dog dog in San Jose, CA today.
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Don’t see the right match? Join our waiting list to be notified when a suitable Australian Cattle Dog becomes available.
Should You Adopt an Australian Cattle Dog?
Australian Cattle Dogs—often called Blue Heelers or Red Heelers—are incredibly loyal, intelligent, and hard-working companions. Originally bred to herd cattle in the tough terrain of the Australian outback, this breed thrives on structure, purpose, and physical activity.
While they’re affectionate and deeply devoted to their humans, they’re not the right match for every household. If you’re considering bringing one into your life, it’s important to understand both the joys and the challenges of this remarkable breed.
✅ Pros of Adopting an Australian Cattle Dog
- Incredibly Intelligent: Quick learners and problem solvers, ACDs love mental stimulation and training exercises.
- Highly Loyal: Once bonded, these dogs form very strong attachments to their families and are protective and devoted.
- Excellent for Active Households: Perfect companions for hikers, runners, or families who spend lots of time outdoors.
- Long Lifespan: ACDs are generally healthy and can live 12–16 years with proper care.
- Low Grooming Needs: Their short, weather-resistant coat is easy to maintain with weekly brushing.
⚠️ Things to Consider Before Adopting
- High Energy: ACDs need daily physical and mental exercise. Without it, they may become bored and destructive.
- Can Be Strong-Willed: Their intelligence can lead to independence. They do best with confident, consistent leadership.
- Herding Instincts: Some Heelers may nip at heels or try to herd children, other pets, or even adults—especially without training.
- Not Ideal for First-Time Owners: This breed thrives in experienced hands, particularly in homes with structure and purpose.
- May Be Wary of Strangers: Early socialization is key to ensure they’re well-adjusted and not overly protective or reactive.
If you’re ready to commit to daily activity, patient guidance, and a dog that will be your ride-or-die for life, an Australian Cattle Dog could be your perfect match. They’re not just pets—they’re partners.
Popular Australian Cattle Dog Mixes
Australian Cattle Dogs are often crossed with other intelligent, active breeds to create loyal and highly trainable companions. These mixes often retain the ACD’s drive, energy, and devotion, while blending in traits from other beloved breeds.
- Border Heeler: Border Collie + ACD. One of the most intelligent and energetic mixes—ideal for agility, herding, or active lifestyles.
- Labrador Heeler: Labrador Retriever + ACD. Friendly, family-oriented, and easier-going than a purebred ACD.
- Texas Heeler: Australian Shepherd + ACD. A classic working dog mix known for brains, beauty, and biddability.
- Heeler-Pit Mix: American Pit Bull Terrier + ACD. Loyal and muscular with a deep bond to their humans.
- German Heeler: German Shepherd + ACD. Protective, alert, and high-drive—great for experienced owners.
- Corgi Heeler (Cowboy Corgi): Pembroke Welsh Corgi + ACD. Small but mighty, these herding dynamos are bold and charming.
If you’re open to an ACD mix, check our listings or join our waiting list to be notified when one becomes available.
Australian Cattle Dog Breed Information
The Australian Cattle Dog (ACD), also commonly known as the Blue Heeler or Red Heeler, is a high-energy, intelligent breed developed in Australia to herd cattle across rough terrain. These dogs are best known for their loyalty, work ethic, and sharp minds. They thrive when given a job to do and form incredibly strong bonds with their people.
Blue Heeler vs Red Heeler: What’s the Difference?
The terms Blue Heeler and Red Heeler refer to the dog’s coat color, not different breeds. Both are Australian Cattle Dogs. Blue Heelers have a speckled or mottled blue-gray coat, while Red Heelers are a reddish-tan version of the same breed. Their temperaments, size, and care requirements are identical.
Breed Highlights
- Size: Medium – 35 to 50 lbs
- Energy Level: Very high – needs 1 to 2 hours of daily activity
- Temperament: Alert, loyal, protective, and intelligent
- Coat: Short, weather-resistant coat that requires minimal grooming
- Shedding: Moderate, with heavier seasonal shedding
- Trainability: Very intelligent, but may be stubborn without consistent leadership
- Good With Kids: Yes, but best with older children due to herding behavior
- Lifespan: 12 to 16 years
If you’re looking for a companion who’s sharp, devoted, and always ready for an adventure, an Australian Cattle Dog might be just the match you’re looking for.
Similar Breeds to the Australian Cattle Dog
If you love the qualities of Australian Cattle Dogs but are open to other breeds, you might consider one of the following. These dogs share the ACD’s intelligence, energy, and work ethic—each with their own unique twist.
- Border Collies For Adoption
- Australian Shepherds For Adoption
- Australian Kelpies For Adoption
- Belgian Malinois For Adoption
- German Shepherds For Adoption
- Jack Russell Terriers For Adoption
Still drawn to ACDs? Check our current listings or join our waiting list to be matched with the perfect dog.
Australian Cattle Dog Rescue Resources
If you’re searching for an Australian Cattle Dog to adopt and don’t see the right match here, you may want to explore breed-specific rescues. The organizations below focus on helping ACDs and mixes find safe, loving homes across the US and Canada.
- Australian Cattle Dog Rescue Association (ACDRA) – A national organization with foster homes and partners throughout the US.
- Texas Cattle Dog Rescue – Dedicated to rescuing and rehoming ACDs in Texas and nearby states.
- ACD Rescue Canada – A volunteer-based Canadian rescue helping Heelers across provinces.
- Arizona Cattle Dog Rescue – Focused on saving ACDs in the Southwest region.
- NorCal Herding Dog Rescue – While primarily Border Collies, they often have ACDs and mixes available in California.
Prefer to adopt privately? Check our available ACDs or join our waiting list to be notified when one becomes available.
Australian Cattle Dog Adoption FAQ
What is the lifespan of an Australian Cattle Dog?
Australian Cattle Dogs typically live 12 to 16 years. They’re generally very hardy and healthy, especially when given regular exercise and a high-quality diet.
Are Australian Cattle Dogs hypoallergenic?
No. Australian Cattle Dogs are not considered hypoallergenic. They shed and produce dander, which may trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.
Do Australian Cattle Dogs shed?
Yes, they shed moderately year-round and more heavily during seasonal changes. Weekly brushing helps manage loose hair and keeps their coat healthy.
How much exercise does an Australian Cattle Dog need?
ACDs are a high-energy breed. They need at least 1 to 2 hours of physical activity and mental stimulation daily. Without enough exercise, they can become bored or destructive.
Are Australian Cattle Dogs good with children?
They can be, especially with proper training and socialization. Due to their herding instincts, they may nip at heels or try to “herd” young kids, so supervision is important—especially around toddlers.
Do Australian Cattle Dogs get along with other pets?
They often do, particularly when raised with them. However, due to their high drive and herding tendencies, early introductions and consistent training are important for multi-pet households.
What are common Australian Cattle Dog health concerns?
ACDs are generally healthy but can be prone to issues like hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and deafness. Responsible breeding and regular vet care can help minimize risks.
Do Australian Cattle Dogs make good apartment dogs?
Not usually. ACDs need space to move and regular outdoor activity. They can adapt to smaller homes with an extremely active lifestyle, but they thrive in homes with yards or access to open space.
Are Australian Cattle Dogs easy to train?
Yes—but they require consistency and a confident handler. Their intelligence can make them quick learners, but also stubborn if not mentally engaged or challenged.
Should I adopt an Australian Cattle Dog?
If you’re active, experienced with dogs, and looking for a loyal companion who’s always ready for work or adventure, an ACD could be a fantastic fit. They’re not low-maintenance, but they’re deeply rewarding.
Thank you for visiting our Australian Cattle Dog adoption page. We hope you found the information helpful and inspiring as you consider bringing one of these incredible dogs into your life.
If you’re still exploring, be sure to check out our full list of medium dogs for adoption. There are so many wonderful breeds looking for loving homes across the US and Canada.