They are the greatest hero of a nation, legend of the Australian working dog a true hero. They accompanied pioneer families all over Australia, devoted to their masters, uncomplaining, tough, unfussy, they rarely go on strike, most of all they have the desire to please. A working dog of Australia has become the true hero of the outback. With the chain released they will work at anything they are asked to, and sometimes with few extras as treats, like a chook (slang for chicken), and a play with children no matter what the weather is or time.

The Australian working dog is the original workaholic of Australia, sometimes bearing scars of hard work or one up man ship. The working dog in Australia is not bred for there beauty or socialization. Rough tough and aloof, they will bark at passer bye's and dogs in utes (slang for truck), and off the chain they have no regard for other peoples property, they will mark their territory on all tyres, posts and circle interlopers with raised lips and hackles up.

A working dogs character is programmed to work all day, but they are quick to change their routine at times so they can finish early for the day. They adapt to change quickly, by either jumping into the back of a ute, or as pillion passenger on a motor bike. Their pride shines when sitting on a bale of hay stacked up on the back of a ute, the wind blowing through their coat and pinks tongue tugging in the wind. There is no farm vehicle properly dressed in Australia without an animal (working dog), on board.

In working mode they are focused, one eye on there master and one eye on the stock. With their rumps in the air and, creeping slowly forward on their elbows, with their heads low to the ground controlling the mob with grace and finesse and slightly bulging eyes. These precious workers never hit the grog, (slang for beer),never take holidays, occasionally a little back chat, never ask for a pay rise, or take a sickie, ( slang for sick leave), most of all are eager to start a days work. Enterprise bargaining is an extra bone, for a job well done, workers compensation is a warm blanket, and superannuation is an old chair on the deck in the sun.

Today with work forces on farms and stations (huge farms in the outback of Australia), work with a skeleton staff, farm and station dogs are today holding a large responsibility. They work hard mustering and working hard in the stock yards. Providing there is sheep or cattle on the property. Top dog of the property is held in high regard and pride of place on the property. No machine could take its place, if there is any machine that could take its place? or think like a dog? even tell you it loves you?. One thing in favor of machinery it does not get pregnant at shearing time or bark all night.

When the price of cattle drops or the price of wool collapses, or the rain does not fall, a working dog is always there for his master with a bright eye, the tender loving care is unconditional. Give them praise and when the unwelcome visit from the bank manager arrives when things are grim.

For all the heroics and charm, a working dog must perform. If we give them to much praise they will not perform. You can not let them get too big for his body. As the boss can not permit free loaders in tough times. Many working dogs of Australia hold a farm or a station together when times are tough and when times are good, the heros of the Australian Out back.

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