Emily has been adopted!
Sponsored in memory of Oliver
The first thing you notice is that she’s a stunning looking girl!
Emily will be an incredible companion to the right adopter who appreciates and understands her breed. Thought to be one-year-old and a Blue Heeler mix (ACD), she is now fully grown.
This breed is not for everyone. Australian Cattle Dogs were bred to control large herds and to protect animals and property from thieves; these working dogs tend to be suspicious of strangers and protective of their home. ACD dogs are extremely loyal, require a good amount of exercise and need to be given tasks/jobs. They particularly enjoy task-solving exercises which will keep them both mentally and physically occupied. They have a life expectancy of 15 years or more.
Emily is very athletic and shows definite herding instincts. If allowed, she will nip at heels. She loves to be outside, runs like the wind and loves to fetch. Her trail walking has improved remarkably. She has no difficulties encountering people or other dogs or as long as they continue to walk past with good manners (do not approach or jump at her). She has been able to overcome her fear of motorized bikes and handicap vehicles. Because her breed instincts are so strong, a home with children will not be considered.
The second thing you notice about Emily is her intelligence and curiosity. She will need someone who acknowledges this and keeps her engaged. Already making amazing progress in her adjustment and learning, an adopter will have to commit to developing her skills with some form of training – perhaps agility, obedience, flock maintenance or hunting. She has the potential of being a great competitor.
We suspect that Emily’s previous owners did not research her breed or her requirements and gave up on her without giving her proper training or socializing. She arrived extremely fearful of humans and would lash out if not introduced in a slow and purposeful manner. This lack of socialization is very important to recognize and manage in order to avoid biting. She has not had an incident but continues to be a risk. Emily is reactive to sudden movements and loud noises (even raised voices). Her foster family continues to work on these issues with her.
While making good progress, Emily will still need help in becoming a more confident dog. Problems with trust meant taking weeks (not days) to become friendly with foster dad. They now love to play and walk together. We believe another like-breed/size sibling(s) in a household could be helpful. Always friendly with other non-aggressive dogs of all sizes, Emily is apparently not crazy about cats.
She has so much going for her. Emily is sweet and affectionate and displays traits of strong loyalty. Still lots of puppy in her, she loves to be goofy when playing with her toys, although some of them now lack their stuffing! A good eater, Emily is not picky about her food and does not show any food protection. She travels well in the car. An excellent sleeper, she is very comfortable in her night kennel. She has never shown anxiety when left alone.
Emily needs:
An adopter who can offer clear, consistent direction and who has an active lifestyle
Possible sibling(s) of similar size/temperament to provide confidence and leadership
Lots of room to run
Training opportunities in agility, obedience, hunting or herding (give her a job)
Someone to love her as much as she will love them!
Emily was lovingly fostered by Jenny
