All About Blue Heeler
Group
Blue Heeler belongs to the Herding Dog Breed Group.
Also Known As
Queensland Heeler, Australian Heeler, Hall's Heeler
AKC Ranking
46
Origin
The Blue Heeler originated
from Australia in the later part of the 19th
century. The Blue Heeler became popular owing
to its high level of stamina and herding abilities.
Their ability and inborn drive to control
the movement of other animals, like a herd
of cows, to pasture by leaping and nipping
at their heels. They received their name as
'Heelers' owing to their habit of nipping
at the heels of a cattle while herding.
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Description
A typical Herding Dog, the Blue Heeler is a medium
sized dog that is mainly used for herding cattle.
The Blue Heeler is a hard-muscled, sturdy and athletic
dog without any trace of being frail or delicate.
The Blue Heeler is also well known for its agility.
As the name suggests, the coat of the Blue Heeler
is blue in color with black, blue or tan markings.
Although the puppies of a Blue Heeler are born white
in color, their coat color starts to change within
14 to 21 days. A seasonal shedder, the Blue Heeler
is double-coated (to beat the weather) with the
outer coat being plane and even. The Blue Heeler
has dark oval eyes and pointed ears widely set on
a round broad head.
Temperament
The Blue Heeler is a highly intelligent,
energetic, independent, obedient, patient and agile
dog. The Blue Heeler is loyal, devoted, highly dependable,
affectionate and protective by nature. They love
to stay around humans and mix well with those children
who were around them from their puppy stage.
Lack of activities and boredom
can lead to major behavioral problems. They are
aggressive towards strangers and don't usually get
along well with other pets like cats or unknown
dogs. Their courageous personality enables them
to be perfect watchdogs apart from acting as herders
or retrievers.
Basically, being herding dog by
nature, they always have the instinct to herd anything
that moves, be it adults, kids or cattle. Their
high dominant self makes them aggressive a number
of times. Many a times the Blue Heeler has nipped
at the heel of a child or an adult trying to herd
them. Training the Blue Heeler is easy, however,
their stubborn self may react aversely to harsh
methods. Thus positive reinforcements are important
to fully train the dog.
Grooming
A seasonal shedder, the Blue Heeler
needs regular brushing or combing with a firm brush
to keep away ticks and mites. Eyes and ears should
be cleaned regularly for hygiene purposes. Bathing
should be done when only necessary.
Health Problems
The Blue Heeler may suffer from hip dysplasia, PRA
or deafness.
Exercise
A herding dog by nature, the Blue Heeler needs high
amount of exercise that involves running, retrieving
and playing. Lack of activities and boredom can
lead to major behavioral problems like aggressiveness
and destructiveness. They enjoy it immensely when
their owners involve them in activities that will
keep them physically and mentally busy.
Living Conditions
The Blue Heeler is most unsuitable
for apartment or small space living. They are usually
content living in huge farms (preferably in the
country side or rural areas) with lots of free space
to run and play around. A house having a big fenced
yard suits them fine as well.
Height
Males and Females of this dog breed reach a height
of 17 to 21 inches
Weight
The average weight of the Blue Heeler is between
35 to 45 pounds
Life Expectancy
Because of their size, this breed has a life span
of 10 to 12 years.
Breed Club
www.gdca.org
Rescue Link
www.gdca.org/rescue.htm
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