Aussimo
The Aussimo is a cross between the Australian Cattle Dog and the American Eskimo Dog. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Aussimo. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog is a compact, sturdy, and symmetrically built working dog that combines strength with agility in a medium-sized frame. Males typically stand 18 to 20 inches at the shoulder and weigh 35 to 50 pounds, while females measure 17 to 19 inches and share a similar weight range. The breed presents a picture of rugged endurance, with a body that is slightly longer than tall, a deep chest that extends to the elbows, and well-sprung ribs that provide ample lung capacity for sustained work. The muscular development is lean and functional rather than bulky, reflecting the breed's need for quick, agile movement when working livestock. The overall impression is of a powerful yet athletic dog capable of sudden bursts of speed and sustained effort. The Australian Cattle Dog's coat is a defining characteristic that provides protection from harsh Australian conditions. The outer coat is smooth, straight, and hard in texture, lying flat against the body and providing weather resistance. The undercoat is short and dense, offering insulation from temperature extremes. On average, the body coat measures one to one and a half inches in length, with slightly longer hair on the underside and thighs forming mild breeching. The neck coat is thicker and longer than the body coat. Two distinct color patterns are recognized: blue, which includes blue, blue-mottled, or blue-speckled with or without black, blue, or tan markings; and red speckle, which displays an even red speckling throughout the coat including the undercoat. The head is wedge-shaped and broad between the ears, with a slight but definite stop and a medium-length muzzle that is strong and deep. The eyes are oval-shaped and medium-sized, expressing alertness and intelligence, and are always dark brown in color regardless of coat color. The ears are moderate in size, pricked and muscular, set wide apart on the skull and inclined outward, contributing to the breed's keen and watchful expression. The tail is set moderately low, follows the slope of the croup, and hangs in a slight curve at rest, reaching approximately to the hock. When the dog is alert or moving, the tail may be raised but should never be carried past vertical.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament The herding instinct in Australian Cattle Dogs is exceptionally strong and may manifest in behaviors like nipping at heels, a trait developed for moving stubborn cattle. This behavior requires management and redirection, particularly in households with children or other pets. The breed has tremendous energy reserves and requires substantial daily exercise including running, hiking, or participation in dog sports like agility and herding trials. Without proper outlets, Australian Cattle Dogs may become destructive or develop behavioral problems. They are happiest in active households where they can participate in family activities and receive regular mental challenges.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Cystinuria is a metabolic condition seen in Australian Cattle Dogs that causes the formation of cystine stones in the urinary tract, which may require dietary management or surgical intervention. Mast cell tumors and other cancers can occur in the breed, particularly as dogs age, making regular veterinary checkups important for early detection. Some Australian Cattle Dogs may develop allergies to environmental triggers or food ingredients. Maintaining a healthy weight is important as obesity can exacerbate joint problems and reduce overall longevity. Purchasing from breeders who perform comprehensive health testing significantly reduces the risk of hereditary conditions, and regular veterinary care helps ensure early detection of any developing health issues.
American Eskimo Dog
The American Eskimo Dog is a beautiful, well-balanced Nordic-type breed that comes in three distinct size varieties to suit different living situations. The Toy variety stands 9 to 12 inches at the shoulder, the Miniature variety measures 12 to 15 inches, and the Standard variety ranges from 15 to 19 inches. Weight is proportionate to height across all varieties, creating a compact yet substantial appearance. The breed displays a square body proportion, being approximately as long as it is tall, with a level back and well-developed chest that extends to the elbows. The overall impression is of a strong, agile, and alert dog with an elegant carriage and proud bearing. The American Eskimo Dog's most striking feature is its magnificent double coat, which consists of a dense, plush undercoat and a longer outer coat of straight guard hairs that stand off from the body. The coat is longer and thicker around the neck, forming a pronounced lion-like ruff or mane that is more prominent in males. The hindquarters are covered with thick hair forming distinctive breeches, and the tail is well-plumed and carried curled over the back. The coat color is pure white or white with biscuit cream markings, with white being preferred in the show ring. The skin beneath the coat may show pigmentation, which is acceptable. The head is wedge-shaped and in proportion to the body, with a moderately broad skull that is slightly crowned and a muzzle that is broad with good depth. The stop is well-defined but not abrupt. The eyes are medium-sized, oval to slightly triangular in shape, and set well apart, expressing intelligence and alertness. Eye color is preferably dark brown, though blue eyes or one blue eye may occur and are acceptable but not preferred. The ears are triangular, erect, and set high on the head, conforming to the overall head type. The nose, lips, and eye rims are preferably black, though brown pigmentation is acceptable in lighter-colored dogs.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament The American Eskimo Dog thrives on companionship and does not do well when left alone for extended periods. The breed is prone to developing separation anxiety and may become destructive or excessively vocal when isolated. American Eskimo Dogs typically get along well with children and can coexist peacefully with other pets when raised together, though their natural alertness may lead to chasing behaviors with smaller animals. The breed requires moderate exercise and mental stimulation, making them adaptable to various living situations including apartments, provided their needs for activity and interaction are met. Their affectionate nature and desire to be with their family make them devoted household companions.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Urinary stones are a condition seen in American Eskimo Dogs, with some individuals being predisposed to forming mineral deposits in the urinary tract. Dietary management and adequate hydration can help reduce the risk of stone formation. Flea allergies and other skin sensitivities are relatively common in the breed, causing itching, hair loss, and skin irritation. Chondrodystrophy, a form of dwarfism that can cause intervertebral disc disease, has been identified in some lines of the breed. Dental disease can be a concern, particularly in the smaller varieties, making regular dental care important. Maintaining a healthy weight, providing regular exercise, and establishing routine veterinary care help ensure early detection and management of any health issues that may develop.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Aussimo may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Australian Cattle Dog and American Eskimo Dog to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.