Kit
Kit is a handsome one-year-old Australian Cattle Dog/Kelpie mix with a fun-loving personality and plenty of energy to share. Like many herding breeds,…
Macomb County Animal Shelter and Animal Control • Clinton Township, MI
Australian Cattle Dog Dogs for Adoption
1,170 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 1,051–1,080 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 36 of 39
Tango
Meet Tango, a charming 3-year-old female Queensland Heeler ready to find her forever home! Tango is a delightful blend of playful curiosity and gentle…
City of Tulsa Animal Welfare • Tulsa, OK
Bingo
Meet Bingo: Your Energetic and Loving Companion! 1.5 month old female Hey everyone, my name is Bingo! I'm a sweet and energetic 1.5-year-old female Au…
WoofDenRescue • San Juan Bautista, CA
At Risk
Reina
Meet Reina! Reina is an adorable brindle medium-size mixed breed dog with short stature, weighing about 38 pounds and is one year old (DOB = May 2025)…
Second Chance Dog Rescue • San Diego, CA
Vera
Meet Vera! Vera came to us after she, her mom, and her siblings were found as strays. She is looking for a patient, understanding family who will allo…
Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue • Nashville, TN
Nova
Canyon Lake Animal Shelter Society (CLASS) • Canyon Lake, TX
Dove
🕊️🐾 Meet Dove! 🐾 Dove's life didn't begin the way any puppy deserves. We believe she and her sister were dumped in the woods in Maumelle, left to f…
Maumelle Animal Services • Maumelle, AR
Ellie
Meet Ellie! 🐾 Ellie is one incredible dog with a mind that never stops working. This smart girl is always ready to learn, explore, and take on her ne…
Hancock County Animal Shelter • New Cumberland, WV
Rose
Rose is one amazing girl! She is a survivor and a great mama dog, too. She was found on someone’s porch, emaciated with a pup that was still nursing. …
Dog Star Rescue • Bloomfield, CT
Juno
A moment in time is captured in one picture. The memories of that moment can last a lifetime. Our girl Juno exudes memories in motion. She is one hund…
Dog Star Rescue • Bloomfield, CT
Annie Lou
Annie Lou is ready to heel your heart one gentle tail wag at a time. Annie Lou is a 2 year 4-month-old female Australian Cattle Dog (Blue Heeler) mix …
Dog Star Rescue • Bloomfield, CT
Boomer
Humane Society & SPCA of Hancock County • Findlay, OH
Monjie
SPONSORED This is Monjie! Monjie is a male Heeler/Pit Bull Terrier mix who is around 3 years old. He is neutered, vaccinated, microchipped and heart w…
Greensburg-Decatur County Animal Shelter • Greensburg, IN
Daisy
Daisy is a Red Heeler Mix, she weighs between 30 - 40-lbs, do well with other dogs, all people she has met so far however she may need some time to wa…
Moberly Animal Shelter • Moberly, MO
Rachel
Walker County Animal Shelter • Chickamauga, GA
Australian Cattle Dog dogs by state
Other breeds
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.
