GENERAL APPEARANCE
Shoulder height: 43-5lcm (17”-20”).
Colour: Blue with or without mottling or tan. Red Speckle - red patches acceptable on head.
Coat: Harsh outercoat on body - soft dense undercoat.
Gait: Supple, tireless - strong hindquarter thrust.
While similar to the Australian Cattle Dog, the Stumpy calls for seven variations - they are shorter in body, the skull is flatter, the pasterns are not sloping, the hindquarters are only moderately angled, black markings are permissible on the body as well as the head and the distinctive tail can be no longer than 10cm (4”). The same powerful muzzle, erect ears and eyes depicting a slightly wary expression are similar. Powerful fore and hindquarters end with strong well arched feet. The characteristic tail is left undocked and set on high - it should not be carried much above the level of the back.
CHARACTERISTICS AND CARE
This breed has a natural aptitude when working with or in the control of cattle. They are courageous, obedient and loyal to their owners. While sometimes suspicious of strangers, in the show ring they must always be amenable to handling. Being easily trained, socialisation with family and friends should be encouraged from an early age. Occasional grooming to remove dead hair and keep the dog happy and healthy is all that is required.
HISTORY
In the early days of Australian settlement, controlling herds of cattle and sheep was of fundamental importance. It was found that the early longer coated bobtails were unable to withstand excessive heat, and had a habit of barking which resulted in undomesticated cattle stampeding. During the 1830s, selective breeding took place which resulted in the Blue Heelers, who barked less and later crosses were made to smooth collies for herding abilities and to the silent Dingo to curb excessive barking. Thus through selective breeding the ideal dog was created. These dogs were now amenable to instruction combined with the dingo characteristics of creeping up and nipping the heels of cattle. Later by adding some Dalmatian blood, their affinity to horses was firmly established. However, the genes from the Bob Tail were obviously in greater numbers for the characteristic tail to have become established in this breed. While the Dingo and the blue merle Collie blood is evident, some believe it is unlikely that the evolvement of this breed carried any Bull Terrier or Black and Tan Sheepdog in its makeup.