Red Dog became a familiar face as the Queensland Reds junior mascot. His energy and personality made him a favourite with supporters, but choosing a dog is about finding a suitable companion for your own home.
Start with the dog and the household
Red is an Australian Cattle Dog. Working breeds can enjoy activity, learning and time with their people, but a breed label cannot predict every individual dog. Age, health, experience and temperament all matter.
Before bringing a dog home, consider your daily routine, available space, children, other animals and the cost of ongoing care. Talk with a registered breeder or reputable rescue organisation about the individual dog, and ask your vet and trainer for advice.
Make time for training and rest
Dogs need suitable exercise, opportunities to sniff and explore, gentle reward-based training and enough rest. The amount and type of activity should suit the individual dog. A demanding exercise routine does not replace teaching a dog how to settle.
Prepare a comfortable sleeping area, safe management arrangements and short training sessions that the dog can succeed in. Our Puppy Set Up sessions can help you plan those early weeks.
Keep children and dogs safe
No breed is automatically safe with children. An adult needs to actively supervise, and dogs and children need secure separation when that is not possible. Teach children to give dogs space and avoid hugging, climbing on them or disturbing them while eating or resting.
Choose a dog whose needs your household can meet. Do not expect any dog to tolerate rough handling. For concerns about behaviour around children, seek individual professional advice before introductions.
Plan for time apart
Long working days and frequent travel need a realistic care plan. Choosing a supposedly independent breed does not guarantee that a dog will be comfortable alone. Build up time apart gradually and arrange suitable support.
If your dog becomes distressed when left, speak with your vet and a qualified behaviour professional. Avoid relying on exhaustion or another dog as a guaranteed solution.
Build your own partnership
You do not need a dog who behaves exactly like Red. Aim for a comfortable, enjoyable relationship with the dog in front of you. Match training to their abilities, reward progress and adjust your expectations as you learn together.
For suitable puppies, explore Brisbane Puppy School. We also offer obedience classes and individual in-home behaviour support.
Featured photograph: Red Dog with his toy. Original post published in 2016; advice reviewed 24 October 2026.
Further reading: RSPCA Australia on choosing a dog, introducing dogs to children and distress when left alone.
Justin Jordan is a dog behaviourist and the founder of Jordan Dog Training, a family-owned Brisbane business. With more than 35 years of experience in the pet industry, Justin and his team help families with puppy training, everyday manners and behaviour concerns.
