Do I have the living environment that will best suit the Australian Cattle Dog breed?
Regardless of how much time you have to commit to these dogs, they are really not suitable for apartment living or living in urban areas without some type of fenced outdoor area the dog can routinely access. They love to be outdoors, regardless of the weather, and are happiest when they have both outdoor time as well as indoor time on a regular daily basis. Apartments are problematic for two reasons with this breed. First they do need the outside space for exercise and overall mental health and well-being, but secondly because they are very protective of their space. They do bark and make excellent watchdogs with some even willing to defend their property like guard dogs. In an apartment or a close living space the noise from people above, below, beside or even in the hallways can create a situation where problem barking quickly becomes a serious issue.
