Australian Cattle Dog Dogs for Adoption

1,172 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 841–870 of 1,172 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.

1,172 Australian Cattle Dog dogs available — page 29 of 40

Photo of Chica, adoptable Queensland Heeler in Santa Fe, New Mexico

Chica

Queensland Heeler FemaleMedium2 years

My name is Chica. I am 2 years old and currently weigh 34 lbs. While I may need to take a few deep breaths and center myself, I really would like to g…

Santa Fe Animal Shelter and Humane Society • Santa Fe, NM

Photo of Vivian, adoptable Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler in Brighton, Colorado

Vivian

Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler FemaleMedium0 years

This puppy is at the perfect age to start bonding with their new family. They explore their world with wiggly enthusiasm, stopping to sniff new things…

Adams County Animal Shelter • Brighton, CO

Photo of Jasmine, adoptable Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler in Fairfield, California

Jasmine

Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler FemaleLarge0 years

Solano County Sheriff's Office Animal Care Division • Fairfield, CA

Photo of Simba, adoptable Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler in Fairfield, California

Simba

Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler MaleLarge0 years

Solano County Sheriff's Office Animal Care Division • Fairfield, CA

Photo of Clarabelle, adoptable Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler in San Leon, Texas

Clarabelle

Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler FemaleSmall2 years

Meet Clarabelle! 2-Year-Old Mini Cattle Dog | Sweet • Quiet • LovingSay hello to Clarabelle, a sweet little girl with a heart as big as her personalit…

Bay Area Pet Adoptions/SPCA • San Leon, TX

Photo of Edric, adoptable Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler in Oakland, California

Edric

Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler MaleMedium5 years

Edric – Smart, Playful, and Eager to Learn Edric is a 5-year-old, 40-pound Australian Cattle Dog mix. He has a bright mind, a fun-loving personality a…

Oakland Animal Services • Oakland, CA

Photo of Mariah, adoptable Queensland Heeler in Santa Cruz, California

Mariah

Queensland Heeler FemaleMedium2 years

Meet Mariah, the Queensland Heeler mix. Mariah arrived to the Shelter as a stray so we don’t know much about her life before now. She had been running…

Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter • Santa Cruz, CA

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.