For the most part, the Australian Cattle Dog is a very healthy breed. They are sturdy and strong, able to not only withstand the harsh Australian climate but able to confidently move around herds of cattle without any fear of injury. Cattle Dog breeders have worked quite hard to ensure their favorite breed maintains a certain standard. This has helped to keep the unfortunate effects of unscrupulous breeding practices at bay. The breed's strong personality and can do attitude also helps to give it a strong constitution. Even with such an outgoing and energetic persona, it is still necessary to have a vet check a few things during routine visits.
The Australian Cattle Dog likes to be on the go. Rarely do they pass up the chance to be out and about, putting their incredible stamina to the test. While this can be of great benefit in some areas, breeds with this type of going power will often ignore minor discomforts that later lead to major injuries. An owner of an Australian Cattle Dog must always keep a close eye on their companion; otherwise what starts out as a small problem can turn into something larger by the time it is painfully noticeable. These injuries can come in the form of paw pad injuries, hip troubles or problems with ligaments in the lower leg.
Giving a thorough examination with the hands after strenuous exercise sessions is always a good idea. Even with their active lifestyle, Cattle Dogs can gain weight. They may seem totally ravenous as if they haven't eaten all day, even though they may have just eaten only hours ago. Many owners chalk this up to nervous energy or boredom. At times, maladies like Cushing's disease can strike but the only way to know if this is the case is by scheduling an appointment with a veterinarian. To help curb a hungry dog's appetite and ensure they do not gain weight, many breeders recommend using canned pumpkin mixed with kibble. The fiber in the pumpkin makes stomach feel fuller longer and the carbohydrates burn slower than those in kibble.
When a female Cattle Dog seems to have become pregnant, it is always a good idea to have them checked by a vet right away. This is especially true if the pregnancy is unplanned or if an owner is suspicious of the circumstances of the pregnancy. This is because the hormones dumped into a female's body during estrus can trick itself into thinking it is pregnant when it is not. This can lead to a very serious condition called pyometra where a deadly infection can set in. A female Cattle Dog that is not intended for breeding should always be spayed.
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