Rosie

Available

6 months- 2 years|Australian Cattle Dog / Blue Heeler, German Shepherd Dog|Female|Medium|Manassas, VA

🐾 Friendly🤗 Affectionate🏃‍♂️ Moderate Energy🚽 House Trained🐕 Dog Friendly

Rosie

Available

6 months- 2 years|Australian Cattle Dog / Blue Heeler, German Shepherd Dog|Female|Medium|Manassas, VA

🐾 Friendly🤗 Affectionate🏃‍♂️ Moderate Energy🚽 House Trained🐕 Dog Friendly

This blue heeler/German shepherd mix is a young, medium-sized female with a short, gray/blue/silver coat. She is spayed, vaccinated, crate and house trained, and currently located with the Australian Cattle Dog Rescue Association, Inc. Rosie's playful personality and loyal nature make her a wonderful companion for the right home.

About Rosie

Click apply and let the tail-wagging begin! Rosie is a wonderful blue heeler/German shepherd mix whose personality and looks capture the best of both breeds. Rescued from Bedford County, VA after coming in as a stray, her early story is a mystery, but she's quickly showing her loving nature. Rosie can be shy at first with both people and other dogs, but once she trusts you, she’s a complete sweetheart. With a high prey drive, she finds squirrels and deer especially irresistible, so her recall can be a challenge in those moments. With medium energy, Rosie enjoys lounging around, playing with her toys, and taking leisurely walks. She’s best suited for homes without small children due to her sometimes rough play, though she’s done well with a dog-savvy five-year-old. Rosie is crate and house trained and walks nicely on a leash. At about 2 years old and weighing in around 50 pounds, she’s up to date on vaccines, microchipped, and regularly given preventatives. Rosie has not been cat tested and, considering her prey drive, likely wouldn’t do well with them, but has met other dogs successfully with slow introductions. She’s eager to make friends, even if not all resident dogs reciprocate. Ready to fall in love? Hit apply and lets get started.

Questions about Rosie

What type of living environment is this breed usually best suited for?
Australian Cattle Dog and German Shepherd mixes are best suited for active households with plenty of space and opportunities for exercise. They thrive in homes with fenced yards and do well with families who can provide both mental and physical stimulation.
How much outdoor space does this breed typically need?
This mix usually needs a good amount of outdoor space to run and play. A secure, well-fenced yard is ideal to let them burn off energy, although daily outdoor adventures can also provide needed activity.
Is this breed typically suitable for homes with children?
These breeds can do well with children, especially if raised together, but due to their herding instincts and high energy, they may be better with older or dog-savvy kids who understand boundaries and play gently.
Is this breed usually better for first-time or experienced owners?
This mix is generally recommended for experienced owners familiar with high-energy, intelligent breeds. Training and socialization are key, and knowledgeable owners will ensure a positive match.
Does this breed typically get along with dogs?
Australian Cattle Dog and German Shepherd mixes often get along with other dogs, especially with proper introductions. Socialization from an early age will help them learn polite behaviors.
Does this breed typically get along with cats?
Due to their herding and prey drive, these breeds are not typically the best match for homes with cats unless carefully managed and introduced from a young age.
Does this breed typically get along with small animals?
Because of their strong prey drive, these mixes may not be reliable with small animals like rabbits or rodents. Supervision and secure enclosures are necessary if they share a home.
How does this breed typically behave with strangers?
These breeds can be reserved or cautious with strangers at first, but often warm up over time. Proper socialization helps them gain confidence and trust in new situations.
How long can this breed typically be left alone?
This mix prefers to spend most of the day with their people but can be left alone for a few hours, especially if provided with toys and activities to keep them busy.
What level of training does this breed usually require?
These intelligent breeds require consistent, positive obedience training and mental challenges to stay happy and well-behaved. Advanced training and dog sports can be especially rewarding.
What size range does this breed generally fall into?
Australian Cattle Dog and German Shepherd mixes are typically medium-sized dogs, ranging from about 40 to 70 pounds depending on the individual dog's genetics.
What is the typical lifespan of this breed?
With proper care, this mix generally has a life expectancy of around 10 to 14 years, benefitting from regular exercise, quality nutrition, and veterinary care.
How much does this breed typically shed?
These breeds have short to medium coats that shed year-round, with heavier shedding typically during seasonal changes. Regular brushing helps manage loose hair.