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Australian cattle dog in an apartment?

Willow

I recently went to the animal shelter and adopted a female Australian cattle dog. She’s very sweet and seems really passive, but it’s hard to tell what her behavior will be like until I get her home (she is being spayed today and I will pick her up this afternoon). I’ve read a lot of things online about ACD’s and all of them say they are a very high energy dog that needs open space (not suited for apartments). I live in an apartment and I’m really worried that things won’t work out and I’ll have to take her back to the shelter. The tech at the shelter seemed to think that she wouldn’t have trouble with apartment life, but I still worry that it won’t be a good place for her. The complex I live at is very dog friendly and they have a fenced area where dogs can be let loose to run, so I was hoping that taking her there along with daily walks will be enough. I also want to get her crate trained because I work during the day.

Could you give me any feedback about your experience with this breed? Would you recommend that I not keep her because of where I live?

Thanks,
Amy

• Experienced Advisor Rosie Barclay says:

  September 04th, 2008 at 11:59 AM

   

  Dear Amy

  To be honest this type of dog is not suitable for apartment living and would become very bored and possibly desructive if left alone whilst you went to work. They are described as needing very high energy requirements. They are very active dogs and need a job to pour all their energies into. They need an experienced, strong-willed considerate owner who has enough time and energy to give this powerful dog a job to do and an outlet for its strong drives through play and training.

  If this dog has not been properly socialised you may also have aggressive problems towards other dogs and strangers.

  So well done you for doing your research about this breed. Your choice but I think you already probably know that apartment life might not be the right place for this tough and responsive little dog. I hope he finds his dream home soon.

  Best wishes

  Rosie Barclay

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