Adoption information
About Fred
💙 FRED — A HAPPY LITTLE AUSSIE WITH A BIG FUTURE!
DOB: 6 July 2026
Breed: Australian Cattle Dog × Kelpie (best estimate)
Colour: Tan and brown with black markings
Weight: 6.4 kg at 11 weeks
Expected adult size: Medium, possibly medium to large
Apply here:
https://southerndownsark.com.au/apply-to-adopt/
🐾 MEET FRED
Fred is a handsome, happy and playful young puppy with beautiful dark eyes, a lovely black-and-tan coat and an expression that's hard to resist.
He's a cheerful, well-socialised little fellow who has had a great start in life and is thoroughly enjoying discovering the world around him.
🐾 A WELL SOCIALISED PUPPY
Fred is being raised in a loving, busy foster home, where he is interacting with adult dogs, cats, chooks, geese and teenagers — quite a variety of companions for such a young puppy!
These early experiences have given Fred an excellent foundation for family life. He's a happy, playful little fellow who enjoys being part of the action.
🐕 WHAT'S IN THE MIX?
Fred is recorded as a Cattle Dog cross, and we suspect there may be some Kelpie in his background.
His black-and-tan colouring, dark saddle, sturdy little body and expressive face are certainly consistent with that combination, although we can't be certain of his parentage.
Both breeds are renowned for their intelligence, loyalty, trainability and enthusiasm for life.
🏡 FRED'S IDEAL HOME
Fred would be particularly well suited to an active household that understands the needs of working breeds.
He doesn't necessarily need acreage or a farm, but he will need people who are prepared to give him plenty of companionship, exercise, training and mental stimulation as he matures.
His ideal home will offer:
• Secure fencing and a safe environment
• Plenty of companionship and inclusion in family life
• Daily exercise and opportunities to explore
• Consistent training from an early age
• Patience and commitment throughout his puppyhood and adolescence
Fred is still a baby, so his exercise should be appropriate for his age, gradually increasing as he grows.
With the right guidance and opportunities, he has the potential to become loyal and rewarding companion.
✂️ DEFERRED DESEXING PROGRAM
Fred will be adopted under ARK's Deferred Desexing Program. His adoption fee includes the cost of desexing, subject to the terms and conditions of the program.
His successful adopter will be required to sign ARK's Deferred Desexing Agreement, ensure that he is not permitted to breed, and have him desexed within the required timeframe in accordance with that agreement.
🚗 INTERSTATE APPLICATIONS WELCOME
ARK welcomes interstate applications and is happy to assist successful applicants with advice on transport options, obtaining quotes and making arrangements to get Fred safely to his new home.
💙 APPLY TO ADOPT FRED
If you're looking for a happy, playful young companion and are ready for the commitment of raising an intelligent, active working-breed puppy, Fred could be just the little fellow for you!
Medical notes
No known pre-existing conditions.
Adoption details
Dogs:
(1) The first step is to complete the online adoption application form at https://southerndownsark.com.au/apply-to-adopt/ Please answer all questions and include photos of your yard and fencing.
(2) All applications will be considered by our Adoption Team, following which a "meet and greet" will be offered to the top-ranking applicant.
(3) If the “meet and greet" is successful, the applicant may adopt the dog and take him or her home the same day.
(4) For successful interstate applicants, different arrangements may apply and will be negotiated on a case-by-case basis.
Cats:
If you are interested in one of our cats or kittens, please click on the green "Enquire about ...", button, tell us a bit about yourself and the home you can offer the cat, and one of our volunteers will be in touch.