Adoption Fee: $950
If you would like to apply to adopt please
download the application form.
If you would like to know more or have problems using a Microsoft Word document please email us.
NB: We do not rehome interstate or to applicants under 25. It is our policy not to rehome dogs in the Sunraysia area. As rescue groups have transported thousands of homeless dogs from Mildura and Sunraysia pounds over the last decade, we do not intend to send any back there.
Breed: Male Blue Heeler/Labrador Retriever
DOB: 05/08/2025
Weight: 22.0 kgs
Location: Golden Square
Meet Bandit
At first glance, Bandit’s stunning blue-speckled coat and striking black markings might be what capture your attention. Spend a little time with him, though, and it’s his gentle nature that will win your heart.
Bandit is an 11-month-old Australian Cattle Dog mix who is learning how to navigate the world as a young adolescent. He loves chasing a ball, exploring the backyard, going on adventures in the car and joining his people for daily walks, but what makes Bandit truly special is the affectionate side he saves for those he trusts.
This gorgeous boy loves his creature comforts. Give him a sunny patch of carpet, a fluffy blanket or a spot beside his favourite human and he’ll happily settle in for a nap. In fact, his favourite way to end the day is curled up next to his people, making sure he’s touching someone before drifting off to sleep.
Bandit has a lot of love to give and is looking for a home willing to guide him through the last stages of puppyhood and into adulthood.
Personality Plus
Bandit starts his mornings slowly. He enjoys a sleep-in, a morning cuddle, a quick trip outside and then it’s time for breakfast and his favourite game of ball.
Like many intelligent working-breed youngsters, Bandit can switch between energetic play mode and complete relaxation. One minute he’s full of puppy enthusiasm and the next he’s curled up peacefully enjoying a nap in the sun.
He is a reasonably confident young dog who can be a little cautious when meeting new people, but once he’s comfortable he’ll happily welcome them into his world.
Bandit’s foster family have fallen in love with his gorgeous markings, beautiful nature and the softness he shows when he feels safe and settled.
Living with Bandit
People
Bandit is friendly with adults and enjoys being around people.
When visitors arrive he may take a moment to assess them, but once he’s satisfied they’re friends, he’ll happily include them in the household.
Bandit has not been tested with children. Due to his size, strength and occasional puppy nipping when excited, we feel he would be best suited to a home with dog-savvy older children, or an adult-only home.
Other Animals
- Dogs: Untested
- Cats: Untested
- Other pets: Not tested
Due to his prey drive and enthusiasm for chasing birds in the garden, we would not recommend a home with cats or small animals.
Training and Progress
Bandit is a clever boy who is eager to learn.
Things Bandit already knows:
✅ House trained
✅ Sit
✅ Come
✅ “Get it”
✅ “Where is it?” (especially when a ball is involved!)
✅ Good understanding of meal routines
✅ Enjoys travelling in the car
He is currently working on:
- Crate training
- Loose lead walking
- “Heel”
- “Wait”
Bandit generally walks well on lead, although he can be strong initially before settling into the walk. He responds best to clear guidance and consistent handling.
What Bandit Needs
Bandit is looking for adopters who understand that while he is incredibly loving, he is still a young working-breed dog.
He will thrive in a home that can provide:
- Daily exercise
- Mental stimulation and enrichment
- Ongoing positive training
- Consistent boundaries
- Plenty of companionship
Bandit can become anxious when left alone and has shown some escape-artist tendencies, so he will need a secure property with good fencing and owners committed to helping him build confidence and independence.
Like many adolescent puppies, excitement can sometimes result in mouthing or nipping behaviours. His future family will need patience and an understanding of puppy development while continuing his training and redirecting that energy appropriately.
Ideal Home
Bandit’s ideal home would be:
✅ Active family
✅ Retired couple with plenty of time at home
✅ Secure home with a large, fully enclosed yard
✅ People committed to ongoing training and enrichment
✅ Quiet, structured environment
Not suited to:
❌ Apartment living
❌ Homes where he is left alone for extended periods
❌ Homes with cats or small animals
Foster Carer’s Final Word
Bandit has a softness about him that’s hard to describe until you’ve met him.
Yes, he’s still navigating all the excitement, enthusiasm and occasional chaos that comes with being an 11-month-old puppy. But underneath it all is a beautiful young dog who simply wants to be loved and included.
His foster family fell in love with his gentle nature, his striking markings and the way he quietly seeks out human companionship at the end of every day. After the walks, the games and the adventures are over, Bandit becomes the sweetest cuddle companion, happy to stretch out beside you and enjoy the comfort of being part of a family.
For the right home, Bandit won’t just be a pet. He’ll be a loyal best friend.
Microchip Number: 956000018362407
Source Number: RE120211
All our dogs are desexed, C5 vaccinated with intranasal, microchipped, wormed and flea treated. All necessary vet work such as dentals, surgery, eye treatment is also carried out. We are no longer heartworm testing as we have not had one positive test since we began in 2006. If a dog comes to us on heartworm treatment this is continued.