About the Breed

The Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog has a unique place in Australia's agricultural heritage. Bred during the 19th Century as a drover's dog, traits of existing breeds such as the dingo and the Smithfield were selected and combined to produce a worker that could move untamed cattle across vast distances and rugged terrain.

The dog that resulted came to reflect the 'hard bitten and rugged' appearance of the land and the people that shaped him. The breed still exhibits the tenacity, resourcefulness and larrikin character of those early Australian bush pioneers. These were qualities that would have been valued by drovers on a drive that stretched over thousands of miles and many months. Drovers and cattlemen needed more than a tireless, courageous worker: they valued a faithful, loyal mate.

In the 21st century the 'stumpy' is unparalleled as a companion, show dog and sporting dog, but he retains those unique qualities of the early drover's dog. He is a brave, loyal, physically strong and highly intelligent dog. He possesses a rugged nobility, but is equally the 'Aussie larrikin' with a terrific sense of humour. He asks for activity, affection and lifelong commitment and will will repay these tenfold throughout his life.

The 'stumpy' does not respond well to neglect or isolation, but, like most of us, thrives on inclusion and affection and lives for his pack or his person.

The Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog Club of New South Wales offers a central point of enquiry for all matters relating to the breed.