Ivy

Available

3-7 years|Australian Cattle Dog / Blue Heeler|Female|Medium|Hempstead, NY

🐾 Friendly🤗 Affectionate🎾 Playful🧠 Smart🏃 High Energy

An adult medium-sized female Australian Cattle Dog / Blue Heeler dog named Ivy for adoption in Hempstead, NY

Ivy

Available

3-7 years|Australian Cattle Dog / Blue Heeler|Female|Medium|Hempstead, NY

🐾 Friendly🤗 Affectionate🎾 Playful🧠 Smart🏃 High Energy

Ivy is an adult female Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler of medium size, currently in the care of the Australian Cattle Dog Rescue Association. She is known for her boundless energy and loving, food-motivated personality. Though her exact weight and coat length are not specified, her breed and age suggest a robust, active companion. Ivy is crate trained and house trained, though she thrives best with attentive supervision. She will benefit from a home familiar with herding breeds and able to provide attentive, structured care.

About Ivy

Click apply and let the tail-wagging begin! Ivy is a wildly sweet and energetic 8-year-old Australian Cattle Dog (ACD) who embodies the motto “can’t stop, won’t stop.” She’s driven by food, always ready to learn, and loves nothing more than chasing squeaky, bouncy balls—even juggling more than one at a time is right up her alley! Ivy’s boundless enthusiasm sometimes clouds her impulse control and listening skills, so a family committed to keeping her on-leash or in a securely fenced yard is essential for her safety. While dog friendly, Ivy is cautious around other dogs and gives off an intense energy that not every dog appreciates. She previously lived with a dog who didn’t share her zest for life, leading her to develop a bit of resentment toward dogs who try to tell her what to do. Any dog housemates must be completely accepting of her vibrant lifestyle. Ivy is not suited for homes with cats or small animals, as her herding instincts and prey drive are strong—she’s even been known to view farm animals as potential snacks! Despite experiencing the farm life, she’s not farm-friendly. Ivy is crate trained and loves relaxing in her personal den with a chew toy, carrot, or stuffed kong after a busy day. She’s house trained but should never be left alone unsupervised—her curiosity often leads her to “quality control” household items! Ivy thrives with humans who make safe choices for her and is best suited for a home with people familiar with herding breeds, especially ACDs. She currently lives with kids but isn’t trustworthy or appropriate for all ages; close management is essential during interactions with children or new people. Ivy needs a patient, calm, and gentle leader who understands her sometimes-reactive tendencies due to past experiences and can maintain consistent boundaries. She likes to communicate (from yips of joy to worried whines and excited barks), so she’d do best in a home without noise-sensitive neighbors. If you’re ready to commit to daily play, guide her through life’s adventures, and embrace her loving nature—expect rewarding kisses and affectionate head-butts in return—then Ivy can’t wait to join your family! Adoption is the new adventure! Ready to roll?

Questions about Ivy

What type of living environment is this breed usually best suited for?
Australian Cattle Dogs thrive in environments where they have space to be active, such as homes with large fenced yards or rural properties. They are not typically well-suited for apartment living unless their exercise needs are met daily.
How much outdoor space does this breed typically need?
This breed requires ample outdoor space to run and play safely. A secure, fenced yard is highly recommended to allow them to burn off energy and practice their natural herding instincts.
Is this breed typically suitable for homes with children?
Australian Cattle Dogs can do well with children, particularly when socialized early, but their high energy and herding instincts mean supervision is important. They may attempt to herd running children, so respectful interactions should be encouraged.
Is this breed usually better for first-time or experienced owners?
This breed is generally a better fit for experienced owners who understand the needs and training requirements of herding dogs. First-time dog owners may find their intelligence and energy level challenging without proper preparation.
Does this breed typically get along with dogs?
Australian Cattle Dogs can get along with other dogs, especially when well-socialized, but they may show dominance or assertiveness with unfamiliar dogs. Early socialization and supervision are important for harmony.
Does this breed typically get along with cats?
They can sometimes coexist with cats if raised together, but their strong prey drive often makes them prone to chasing smaller animals. Careful introductions and supervision are required.
Does this breed typically get along with small animals?
Due to their high prey drive, Australian Cattle Dogs are not generally recommended for homes with small animals such as rodents or birds. They may see these pets as something to chase.
How does this breed typically behave with strangers?
Australian Cattle Dogs tend to be reserved and watchful around strangers. With proper socialization, they can learn to be polite, but early experiences play a key role in shaping their reactions.
How long can this breed typically be left alone?
This breed prefers the company of their people and can become bored or destructive if left alone for long periods. They should not be left alone for more than a few hours at a time.
What level of training does this breed usually require?
Australian Cattle Dogs are highly intelligent and need consistent, ongoing training. Positive reinforcement and clear boundaries are a must to keep them engaged and content.
What size range does this breed generally fall into?
They are generally a medium-sized breed, typically weighing between 35 and 50 pounds.
What is the typical lifespan of this breed?
Australian Cattle Dogs are known for their longevity, with many living between 12 and 16 years when well cared for.
How much does this breed typically shed?
They have a short, dense double coat that sheds moderately year-round, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes.