Australian Cattle Dog Dogs for Adoption

1,170 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 811–840 of 1,170 below.

About adopting a Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog, often listed as a Blue Heeler or Red Heeler, was built to move cattle across hard country, and the ones that end up in rescue are usually there because someone underestimated that. This is a dog with stamina, intelligence, and a nipping instinct that shows up in play.

A young heeler needs work, not just walks. Herding-style games, agility, long hikes, and puzzle feeders all help, and the breed shines when training is consistent and challenging. Without a job, heelers tend to invent one, which may involve chasing bikes, herding children by the heels, or redecorating the couch. Puppies are intense, and adolescents more so.

Cattle dogs are often devoted to one person and suspicious of strangers, which makes them excellent companions for an active single or couple and a harder fit for a busy social household. Cats and small kids require careful introductions. Ask the shelter or rescue about the individual dog's history, whether it has lived in a home before, and what training it has already had.

1,170 Australian Cattle Dog dogs available — page 28 of 39

Photo of Atlas Enzo, adoptable Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler in Sandy, Utah

Atlas Enzo

Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler MaleLarge0 years

BREAKING NEWS: THE FALL MVP HAS ENTERED THE FIELD! Forget the fantasy league. ATLAS ENZO is the only draft pick you need this season. I’m a 3-month-ol…

Rescue Rovers Dog Adoptions • Sandy, UT

Photo of Arie Claire, adoptable Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler in Sandy, Utah

Arie Claire

Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler FemaleLarge0 years

SWEATER WEATHER HAS NOTHING ON ME! Hi, I’m ARIE CLAIRE, and apparently I’m what happens when you mix autumn leaves, fluffy clouds, and a whole bunch o…

Rescue Rovers Dog Adoptions • Sandy, UT

Photo of Ayla Cali, adoptable Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler in Sandy, Utah

Ayla Cali

Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler FemaleLarge0 years

ATTENTION, FALL LOVERS… YOUR NEW FAVORITE SEASON JUST GOT FOUR PAWS! HI. I’M AYLA CALI. Apparently I’m supposed to be a “puppy,” but honestly… I think…

Rescue Rovers Dog Adoptions • Sandy, UT

Photo of Pipperoni, adoptable Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler in Sandy, Utah

Pipperoni

Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler MaleMedium0 years

Would you like some Pipperoni with extra cheese? Because that’s exactly what this boy is! His name is Pipperoni (Pip), and he is all cheesy, goofy ene…

Rescue Rovers Dog Adoptions • Sandy, UT

Photo of Nessy, adoptable Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Nessy

Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler MaleMedium2 years

The shelter environment can be overwhelming for Nessy, but outside the shelter, his affectionate, calm, and easygoing personality really shines. Nessy…

Albuquerque Animal Services - Eastside • Albuquerque, NM

Photo of Otterpop, adoptable Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler in Sandy, Utah

Otterpop

Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler MaleLarge0 years

Hello ladies and gentlemen, let me introduce myself! My Name is OTTERPOP! Want something to cool you off during these hot summer days?!?! Well, let me…

Rescue Rovers Dog Adoptions • Sandy, UT

Photo of Kippie, adoptable Cattle Dog in Sandy, Utah

Kippie

Cattle Dog MaleMedium0 years

Hi hi hi, I’m Kippie, I’m a 1 year old, 53lb handsome boy looking for my forever family! I’m listed as a Cattle Dog, but my foster mom thinks I might …

Rescue Rovers Dog Adoptions • Sandy, UT

Photo of Zuri, adoptable Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler in San Bernardino, California

Zuri

Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler FemaleSmall0 years

San Bernardino City Animal Control • San Bernardino, CA

Photo of Steven, adoptable Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler in MIDWAY, Utah

Steven

Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler MaleMedium0 years

Meet Steven aka Gaucho Saddle up, because Steven—aka Gaucho—is quite possibly the goofiest little Blue Heeler cowboy you’ll ever meet! Steven made his…

Mountain Mama Pyrs and Pups • MIDWAY, UT

Photo of DA 4 Bambi, adoptable Cattle Dog in Glen Allen, Virginia

DA 4 Bambi

Cattle Dog FemaleLargeYoung

The Henrico Police Animal Shelter is accessible by appointment only. Animals available for adoption can be viewed online at petfinder.com or adoptapet…

Henrico Police Animal Shelter • Glen Allen, VA

Photo of Charlie, adoptable Cattle Dog in Tucson, Arizona

Charlie

Cattle Dog MaleMedium1 year

COURTESY POSTING****NOT A TUCSON COLD WET NOSES DOG****CONTACT INFO AT BOTTOM Charlie is a lovable, smart, Cattle Dog mix; 1 year old, about 55 lbs. H…

Tucson Cold Wet Noses • Tucson, AZ

Adopting a Australian Cattle Dog — FAQ

Are Australian Cattle Dogs good family dogs?

Australian Cattle Dogs can be great family dogs for active households that give them work to do, but they may nip at running children because herding is instinctive. Families with older kids and time for daily training tend to do best. An adult with a known history is easier to assess.

How much exercise does an Australian Cattle Dog need?

An Australian Cattle Dog needs a lot, more than most breeds you will find in a shelter. Plan on vigorous daily activity plus mental work. Hiking, running, fetch, and structured training all count, and the dog will let you know when it has not had enough.

Do Australian Cattle Dogs get along with other pets?

Many Australian Cattle Dogs live with other dogs, though they can be bossy and may try to herd them. Cats are a mixed picture and depend on the individual. Ask the rescue whether the dog has been around other animals and how it behaved, then plan slow introductions.

How do I adopt a Australian Cattle Dog?

Open any dog's profile to see the shelter or rescue caring for them, then use the adoption link or contact details to apply directly with that organization. Every Dog's Chance simply gathers listings in one place so they're easier to find.

Are Australian Cattle Dog dogs a good fit for first-time adopters?

Many Australian Cattle Dog dogs — especially adult dogs who are already house-trained — can be a great match for first-time owners. Each dog's profile and the shelter or rescue caring for them can tell you about that dog's individual energy level, training, and personality before you apply.

How much does it cost to adopt a Australian Cattle Dog?

Adoption fees vary by shelter and rescue, but typically include spay/neuter, vaccinations, and a health check. Open any dog's profile and contact the organization directly for their current fee and what it covers.

Are Australian Cattle Dog dogs good with children or other pets?

It depends on the individual dog more than the breed alone. The shelter or rescue caring for each dog can tell you about their history with kids, cats, and other dogs. Many organizations offer meet-and-greets to make sure the match is right for everyone before you commit.

Can I foster a Australian Cattle Dog instead of adopting?

Many shelters and rescues offer a foster program, sometimes with a foster-to-adopt path. Fostering a Australian Cattle Dog gets them out of a kennel and into a calm home, which is a great way to see if the match feels right before committing. Ask the organization on any dog's profile whether fostering is an option.

What should I expect in the first weeks after adopting a Australian Cattle Dog?

Most dogs have a brief adjustment period — a few days to a couple of weeks — as they settle into a new home. A consistent routine, a comfortable place to rest, and patience make the transition easier for both of you. The shelter or rescue can tell you what to expect from the specific dog you're adopting.