A Blue Heeler can be a wonderful companion and family dog if your circumstances are right. You need to make sure you’re prepared to give your dog the attention it will need. You will need to socialize your puppy well, and keep your pet healthy and fit both mentally and physically. It’s also vital to keep up with recommended medical checks. Make sure you have the time to dedicate to your dog’s training. Blue Heelers do best when they have a job to do, whether that job is herding cattle, fetching frisbees, keeping you company on your morning run, or competing in agility contests. This is a dog that needs to be busy!
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The Blue Heeler is a name for the Australian Cattle Dog breed. These short coated, blue patterned dogs have upright ears and deep eyes. They are intelligent, active and loyal. This traditional Australian herding breed was used for driving cattle along by nipping at their heels.
This is never going to be a lap dog or ideal apartment pet, but they can fit very well with active working lifestyles. Not suited to first time owners, they are wonderful companions for experienced dog trainers and handlers. They are easy to train if you know how to motivate them, but need a huge amount of exercise for their bodies and brains!
What Was Their Original Purpose?
Blue Heelers were originally bred by settlers in Australia, who crossed their dogs with dingos and created a unique, tough, hard working cattle dog, suited to the outback. These days they are an increasingly popular pet, too!
Although the Blue Heeler might look like a hunting dog, Australian Cattle Dogs were actually bred to create a herding dog. This was especially for the Australian environment after British settlers emigrated there in the 19th century. Their unique appearance is partly down to the wild dingo blood running through their veins.
Wherever Dingos and domestic dogs have existed in close proximity, a certain amount of cross breeding has occurred. However, it’s no coincidence that Blue Heelers are somewhat dingo-like in appearance—the dingo blood in these cute cow dogs is no accident. Dingos were deliberately bred with the Blue Heeler dog to create a specific result. That is, the kind of tough dog that Australian cattlemen needed.
In addition to Dingos, you’ll find traces of other breeds in a Blue Heeler’s genetic makeup. These include the Blue Smooth Highland Collie, Bull Terrier, Dalmatian, and black and tan Kelpie. The breed received official recognition from the American Kennel Club in 1980.
What does a Blue Heeler look like?
Healthy adult Blue Heelers can weigh between 30 and 50 pounds. They can be up to 20 inches tall, but females are smaller than males.
It’s unusual to see a fat Blue Heeler, because they are such active dogs and don’t tend to be over eaters. If your Blue Heeler is always hungry then try spreading out their meals more, into smaller portions with the same daily total. And don’t forget to use lots of their kibble as as training treats.
With upright ears, short fur, and a balanced, athletic body, the baby Blue Heeler resembles the Australian Dingo. However, their bodies tend to be more muscular. Their ears may be initially floppy as puppies, but often become perky before 24 months.
Colors and Coat Type
The Australian Cattle Dog has a short, straight coat with many different shades. They also have an even shorter undercoat. Their fur is relatively rough to the touch. This is useful as it protects them from harsh weather conditions like rain or extreme heat. And in good news, your Blue Heeler is never going to need a haircut!
This breed comes in two main colors—red or blue. Some people refer to all Australian Cattle Dogs as Blue Heelers, regardless of their coat color. But some prefer to call the redder looking dogs Red Heelers or even Golden Heelers when it has a more ginger tone.
Blue Heeler colors, coat markings and patterns vary depending between dogs. They can often leave the dog looking like a mixture of the two colors. It is also common (and very cute!) for Australian Cattle Dogs to have a mask of darker fur over one or both eyes.
Do Blue Heelers Shed?
Australian Cattle Dogs shed a lot of fur, but their short coat is relatively easy to maintain. You should groom your Blue Heeler regularly to remove old hair and encourage new growth. This will help to reduce the amount of hair shed onto your carpets, but it won’t prevent your Blue Heeler shedding altogether.
Hypoallergenic dogs are sadly a bit of a myth. The thing that makes you sneeze is actually their dander, and comes from drool and skin flakes, not just the fur. However, some dogs are easier on allergy sufferers than others. Sadly, this cow dog isn’t one of them.
Blue Heeler Temperament
Blue Heelers are packed with personality, but they need a lot of space and time focussed on them. This is not an apartment dog for a person that goes out to work.
The Australian Cattle Dog is a tough breed both mentally and physically. A 2007 study tracked Blue Heelers and other cattle dogs engaged in mustering sessions lasting four hours or more in temperatures of up to 38 degrees celsius. During the sessions, these dogs covered average distances of up to 20 miles.
Are They Ever Aggressive?
Like many herding breeds, the Blue Heeler has a very loyal personality. They can be quite protective of their family and toys, and wary towards strangers. Plenty of early socialization helps to reduce the “wariness” but won’t dispel it altogether. So the chances are your Blue Heeler dog will always be somewhat cautious around strangers and prefer familiar faces. This wary temperament makes socialization extra important when raising a Blue Heeler puppy.
Do Blue Heelers Make Good Family Pets?
Australian Cattle Dogs make great pets if you can to give them the exercise and mental stimulation they require to stay healthy and happy. But they are best suited to homes without very small children. Raising a Blue Heeler with kids is tough as you need to separate them a lot.
They are loyal to their owners and are full of personality and love. However, you must be wary of their inherent desire to herd—they often try to herd running children and can be prone to nip at passing legs. So whilst they can make great pets if you have the time and energy to dedicate to their healthy lives, you will need to always supervise these dogs around smaller children. It’s vital to properly socialize your Blue Heeler to children of a wide variety of ages, before their socialization window closes at 14 weeks old.
How Well Do They Mix With Families?
No dog should be trusted around babies. Although Instragram might be full of seemingly cute images of them curled up together, this actually isn’t fair on the dog. Babies make sudden gestures, grab and don’t let go, and emit weird high pitched noises. Don’t put your dog in the position of having to understand what’s going on and act accordingly. Just keep them apart or fully supervised until the baby is bigger.
Blue Heelers and cats are not natural friends, due to the high prey drive of the cattle dog. Although they can learn to live together if they grow up together, don’t rely on your Heeler accepting other cats as happily.
Bearing in mind the herding instincts of Australian Cattle Dogs, it is wise to exercise care when introducing new animals. Dog training experts recommend introducing cats or other animals in puppyhood. And new animals may need to be introduced cautiously—perhaps using a protective fence at first.
Extra Exercise
Although active dogs, it’s important not to over exercise them at a young age. This has the potential to damage their joints and isn’t good for their growing bodies. No more than five minutes per day of formal exercise per month old your puppy is, twice a day. That means a 6 month old Blue Heeler should have at most 30 minutes of exercise morning and evening.
Because Australian Cattle Dogs are so intelligent, they require activities that stimulate them physically and mentally to take up their spare time. Activities and games such as retrieving and tracking will maintain the focus and quick responses of your dog. Without things to do, your pup may get bored and could start misbehaving to occupy itself.
Australian Cattle Dogs require lots of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. For this reason, Blue Heelers are not usually suited to living in small apartments. And if your dog is to have free run of your yard you’ll need a secure dog proof fence to prevent them from wandering. These dogs are agile and do not tire easily—all qualities that make them such great herders.
Do They Like Water?
All dogs can swim, and Blue Heelers are no exception. Although they weren’t raised or bred as water dogs, being from quite dry areas, they are still able to swim. And if introduced at an early age can learn to love it, and burn off a lot of their energy doing so.
How to Train an Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Cattle Dogs are an extremely intelligent breed, that take quickly to training. Positive reinforcement training is a must for this clever and enthusiastic breed. Clicker and reward-based training is a great way to train dogs like these, and goes hand in hand with proper socialization in the first few years of your dog’s life to ensure an obedient, friendly dog later in life.
Although loyal and not particularly flighty dogs, you still need to teach them a good recall. An intact male Blue Heeler is likely to stray if they smell a female Blue Heeler in season. And any herding dog worth their salt has a high prey drive and needs to be taught a very solid come.
Blue Heeler Health and Care
It’s important to be aware of health issues that may affect your favorite breeds. Because in some cases, these can be entirely avoided by proper health testing. And in others, early diagnosis offers a better outlook for the dog.
| Ears: | Inherited deafness |
| Liver: | Portosystemic shunt |
| Eyes: | PRA, lens luxation |
| Joints: | Hip and elbow dysplasia, Osteochondritis Dissecans |
Blue Heeler Deafness
Australian Cattle Dogs can suffer from congenital hereditary sensorineural deafness (CHSD). In a study of just under 900 Australian Cattle Dogs, published in 2012, over 10% of Blue Heelers had some degree of deafness. 3% of all the dogs were deaf in both ears.
(paid link) An association between coat color and deafness has been noted in several breeds but the pattern and mechanism of inheritance is not always the same. In Blue Heelers, dogs with masks and females were at higher risk than dogs without facial masks or male dogs. In Australian Stumpy Tailed Cattle Dogs, which are related to Blue Heelers, some association has been found between speckled markings in the coat and deafness. However, a link between coat markings/color and hearing has not yet been proven in Blue Heelers.
Many owners of deaf Blue Heelers have learned to use signs to communicate. But if you’d prefer to avoid purchasing deaf Blue Heeler puppies, visit a knowledgeable breeder. Bilateral deafness can be identified by an experienced breeder by about six weeks of age. Blue Heeler puppies with deafness in only one ear are harder to detect, but also less of a challenge to train and care for.
Blue Heeler Lifespan
The Blue Heeler dog has a reasonable lifespan for a purebred pup. They are often quoted as living 12-16 years. This is likely to be based on a study published in 2004, that included 22 blue Heelers. The dogs that had died (eleven of them) reached a mean age of twelve years. The oldest of those eleven dogs lived to be sixteen years of age. With such a small sample we can’t draw any firm conclusions, but this is a breed with a sound conformation. So, hopefully, your Blue Heeler will be with you for a decade or more.
Australian Cattle Dog Breeders
Finding a good breeder of Blue Heeler puppies is one of the most important steps you can take in your search for a puppy. This is because, as mentioned before, many health problems with these dogs are genetic.
There are over 80 different diseases in dogs for which we have DNA tests available. And that number continues to climb. Your best protection, therefore, is to know what tests apply and to find a responsible breeder who has selected their breeding stock with care.
Always visit your breeder and their puppies before deciding. Moreso, always go to a breeder prepared to ask questions. Make sure you’re satisfied that they’ve given you enough information before proceeding. A reputable breeder will be happy to share all of the parents’ test results with you, as well as letting you meet both parents, and see the puppies in their home.
Good breeders will also usually question you, to make sure their puppy is going to a good home. They’ll want to know that it’s with someone who knows how to take care of it.
Katlynn says
Help!! I have a question about my dog’s coat. He has papers but everyone keeps telling me he isn’t purebred because on the top of his back closer to his tail and his neck, his coat has a slight wave to it. I agree, I’ve not seen this before but is this an absolute factor for him to not be a purebred Blue Heeler?
Joe Culbertson says
help . I have a 6 month blue heeier who piddles when excited, Its mainly when someone is giving him attention when greeting him. Doesnt matter if he has met them before. I try to socialize every chance I get and then have to ask for paper towels to clean up piddle. Is this just an age thing or does he need more work?
Ben says
We have found with all of our healers that piddle when greeting. If the humans can completly ignore the puppy for the first 10-30 seconds. They dont piddle when you do aknowlage them and after a few weeks the accidents stop altogether.
Sherri says
We have a Blue Heeler mix we got her from a rescue she is 5 months old. I’m not sure what her life was like before we got her. She is very sweet and loves other dogs but she’s not real sure about people. She also has accidents when she excited. I know we need to socialize her but she is very skittish around people she doesn’t know . Also she is terrified of a leash. Anyone have any suggestions?
Alex says
Having owned two heelers, one of them a rescue, I would say that your girl has obviously had some unfortunate experiences with people, and likely they were abusive with the way they handled her on a leash… these are incredibly intelligent animals though, and by showing her consistency in your loving care will do wonders for helping her overcome/unlearn the negative lessons she had previously… per another commenter re: the excited accidents, try waiting 15-30 seconds before acknowledging her when greeting, and this should eventually end those (it’s a puppy thing in my experience)… otherwise, re: her wariness of the leash and strangers, develop your bond with her and let her know 100% she is safe, secure, and loved, and once she is confident in that and in you, everything else will come. Communicate with her- and go slow. Recognize when she is becoming anxious, and pause whatever activity you were engaging in with her, provide reassurance to her (treats and praise go a long way, haha), and then, when she has relaxed, you can- slowly- go back to the activity. Understand that with the leash, she was likely jerked around without warning (and likely without reason, unfortunately), so this is where your consistency with her will be incredibly important. When she knows she’s safe with you, then you will be able to start to change her association of the leash as a scary thing into one where the leash means “yay!! We’re going out!!!”. Communication with her couldn’t be more important in this endeavor- but start with the basic foundation of “you are safe with me/us, we are family, you are loved and protected and can trust us”. Once that is firmly established, the rest will follow, and you’ll have one of the most devotedly loyal and loving little girl you could possibly hope for- blue heelers are a special breed, they choose a master when they join a new family, and instinctually want to devote themselves to them. Be that rock for her, and she will flourish!
Best of luck, and Godspeed you both in her journey to unlearn and recover from her unfortunate past experiences- the rest of her days will be much sunnier thanks to you…
Joe Culbertson says
these dogs are scary smart. Micka is 6month old energy pack who loves to chase a tennis ball, also starting to work a frisbee. While bringing the tennis ball back he cameupon the frisbee. He stood over it for a few seconds then dropped the tennis ball in the frisbee picked it up and brought both back to me. i still cant believe what i saw,
Isha Mysty says
MY blue heeler quite naughty. Every time in happy mood to give us happiness!!!!!!!
blake says
My heeler is a year old now she is super sweet overwieght and i love her
Ronald L Harmon says
Nothing 8-week-old blue heeler who showed signs from the very beginning of a high intelligence for learning understanding simple commands very active and agile always wanting to wrestle and play or run and jump very impressed with this breed
Shelah H says
We have a 2 1/2 year Blue Heeler, so intelligent it’s scary. However she’s on the short side 16 inches at shoulder, naturally stocky and wide across the chest . She’s well exercised but I’m having a difficult time controlling her weight. She’s fed 3/4 cup twice a day . I’m currently feeding her a dog food with 26% protein and 16% fat. Weights 39lbs.
Any insight / recommendations would be appreciated.
Nicole says
I have a 12 week old female. This breed is a natural nipper and loves to bark as well. Mine when I tell her back to room she will always bounce around as if she were cattle… reverse herding her back to room…
Clara Sysling says
I have a blue heeler pup who is 7 months old, 23 lbs. Is this a normal size for them as puppies? He consumes 2.5 cups of food a day and some fun treats like carrots or sweet potatoes every now and then. He’s not overweight or too skinny, seems to be at a good weight for his height. But he’s been around the same size for a few months now. Do they hit their growth spurt later than other breeds? Should I be adding extra nutrition to his every day diet?
Joe says
Your Pros and Cons list is backwards. That is all.
James Nix says
YES I HAVE A BLUE HEELER!! I TOOK CARE OF HIM FOR MY SO A FEE YEARS AGO BECAUSE HE MY SON WAS ALWAYS OTHER PLACES AND NOT RUGER! So and trained him good!! HE OBEYED REALLY WELL!! Fast forward to today once again and he doesn’t obey like before because my was and never home hardly ever!! Always home alone !! I was with this I NOW HAVE HIM AGAIN!! RUGER IS SPECIAL HE NEEDS ATTENTION AND I LOVE RUGER SO !! I TOLD MY SON LISTEN I NOW OWN RUGER I HAVE OFFICIALLY ADOPTED HIM!! BRETT my son knows that I am a dog lover all animals i for whatever all animals love me too much!! MY LATE WIFE USED ASK WHY WHY ALL ANIMALS LOVE YOU WELL THEY SENSE A GOOD PERSON AND THATS ALL SAY!! So anyway I am happy that have him because he is also very very happy to here with and he is a very dog !! I need his company and he needed me badly because being locked in a house for two day’s sometimes is no for him!! I TOLD MY DEPRESSION IS NOT GOOD FOR HIM NOR ME!! My always gone working working. All time so not intentionally but son have let give a andi will take of him!! BETTER YET LET ME TAKE HIM TO WITH ME!! I LOVE OL RUGER BOY!!!
September says
Your bad experience with one dog doesn’t mean the whole breed is bad.
Mia says
I have a 4 year old blue Heeler and he’s slightly overweight, is there any type of activities I can do at home with him to help him loose weight?
Lynndee says
Good quality dog for for his age playing ball no table food walks or runs keep his mind busy as well set up obstacle course just make it all fun and a game and he will be more than willing
Kathryn Bean says
I have a blue heeler who is extremely loyal to me. He loves to ride and fetch his tennis balls. He needs no leash, never uses the bathroom in the house. I can go on and on about this dog. He is, by far, the most well-behaved dog I have ever owned. His only problem… barking at cars while he’s riding in the car. I think he’s trying to herd the cars. He does one or two woofs at each car that passes by. I’ve gotten use to it because he rides everywhere with me unless it’s really hot outside.
darryl says
I had a red heeler who also wanted to herd cars. As long as they went the same way we were going she was going she was quiet. But she barked whenever a car was going in the opposite direction.
She got so excited in the car, at 12 she had a stroke and passed away.
Kristen says
I rescued a one year old blue heeler, his name is rocky. Someone had posted him on Facebook stating that they “didn’t have time for him” as usual. I did a meet and greet and we had an instant bond. Two days later I went to pick up him and his belongings only to learn that he was being beat, also that he was in a kennel for 10+ hours a day. He was very aggressive towards people if they would try to come near me. Fast forward 6 weeks, we go shopping and to parks also hunting! He is a completely different dog. He loves attention, he loves to please me, and he’s even warming up to men. My fiance tried walking him today and after 30seconds says “here he listens to you better!” I tried explaining I’m mom and boss but I am so happy with his transformation
David says
There are no bad dogs, only bad people. Well done Kristen!
Lorna says
Can you please help me with our blue heeler
Michael Suer says
we have a rescued blue heeler.. she followed my son home from the truck stop down the street from my house someone had a banded her there. she was about 18 months when we got her so she rides in the truck with me I Drive an 18-wheeler and she loves the truck she is turned out to be the best dog I’ve ever had will be a very sad day for me the day she passes on to the Rainbow Bridge she is very well behaved she loves children other dog and somewhat people person
Lynndee says
Yes it will be the hardest thing in the world to lose ur cattle dog I lost mine after16 years I am still not over it yet but keep in mind there r a lot of heelers that need a good home
Brianna says
I have 2 blue heelers that are brothers, 6 months old, and not fixed/neutered. I have gotten them house trained, can do some basic commands (sit, lay down, go to kennel, ring the bell). I currently am having several issues that I am not real sure how to address or if they will sort out with time and SEVERE determination…lol. One is that in an effort to train the biting/teething/chewing my belongings, I have utilized the swap method (exchange the non-preferred item for a bone or teething ball). This then turns into a brother fight over the toy, even if they both have the same exact toy at the same exact time. I am also having issues with jumping on people, and not listening when I call their names. They are very competitive with each other. I’ve tried training with them one on one and together. When separate they do great, when together it’s like I’m not even in the same space. They are very bonded to each other. I have recently moved their kennels to different rooms to hopefully “un-bond” them so much. Any suggestions would be helpful.
Lily says
omg I am in the same boat! I have 2 siblings from the same litter, both males and they are synced and do everything together but they constantly fight. They’re also chewing on things they shouldn’t. Good luck to the both of us, hope we figure it out.
Mary Ann says
You have to communicate with your dog. If they are chewing something of yours take it away and give them something that’s theirs to chew on. And tell them this is mine. This is yours. They are smart. Holly got it fairly quickly. Also the more you talk to them the more they seem to understand.
Gabi says
My 7 month old blue heeler has been aggressive towards children under 10 but she does fine with adults. How do I get her to be good with children and not aggressive.
Lucy says
Hi Gabi, It sounds like you would benefit from booking some sessions with a canine behaviorist that uses modern positive reinforcement techniques. Your local vet should have the contact details of someone in your area. Just be sure you avoid anyone who might punish this behavior, as it can exacerbate the issue and remove warning signs.
Alan - Sydney, Australia says
Blueys (blue Australian cattle dogs) are loyal, tough, smart but pushy.
We adopted a 3 year old rescue girl. Always a risk with blueys, as mis-treated animals can be aggressive, but our girl was quiet but still traumatised by her mis-treatment as a pup. She always needed someone at home with her. Luckily we were in a position to supply this.
JJ (Jade) is now 11 and still in good health if a bit white around the face. Her favourite spot is on top of a blanket box in front of our front window so she can watch (and smell) the world go by. This is part of her guarding the house. If someone is coming to the front door, she lets us know. But if we accept them, she accepts them.
She has a tendency to put on weight, so a daily walk is essential. Happy to let anyone pat her – no problem at all. Just get rid of that pesky dog you’re walking. Good with children of any age as long as she is under supervision, I still wouldn’t get a bluey if you have children under five. Perfect for older children – but perhaps would be TOO protective if there were other children or people around who she doesn’t know.
Did I mention pushy? When she first came home with us she tended to walk behind you and push you with her nose to get you to move on. Other blueys may nip your heels, but JJ never did that. Blueys are bred to control herds of cattle and move them about, so people are an easy gig.
We’ve slowly trained her out of this, but she’s still pushy – when it’s time to get up, when it’s time for her breakfast, when it’s time for her walk – she will let you know. Typically by sitting and staring at you, but occasionally by standing in the way if you are going the wrong direction. It is REALLY bred into them to push you around.
Wonderful breed if you are looking for a friend for life.
Erin says
My blue heeler is awesome in my APARTMENT sleeps in my bed fully vigilant and aggressive to strangers! Traits I would never try to dispel! Why would anyone try to suppress their natural instict?? Ridiculous! She is my shadow and does try to herd me I dont mind as I know it’s in her genes! Please dont try and change your dog. If they are naturally aggressive and protective what fool would change that? Somebody who’s dog doesn’t have their back!!!
Lillian says
agree totally i have a 3 year old blue heeler but she isn’t aggressive shes a cute dog but has a really loud bark & gets us to the door when ever she sees the neghibors cows she’s all at them…lol my dog is also really funny
Nan - Texas says
Wonderful breed if you put in the work up front. And pay attention to the environment. My blue’s behavior problems early on had more to do with our Corgi cranking him up than him alone. Once we solved for the instigator, we solved most of the bluey issues.
His parents were working cattle dogs but Zeke needed to be able to go town or country which worked out very well. Also having 3 cats prior to his appearance was not a problem for him. Wolfgang, the big ginger, slept with him every night.
The sitting and staring to go out was pretty funny. I thought it was just him.
I’ve had Australian shepherds and corgis so well acquainted with working breeds but these guys are one of a kind.
Linda Taylor says
My husband bought a blue heeler for me just before he died. I’m 64 and usually active, but I am very distraught during this time and not as active. I live in the city and have a large enough yard, but I’m trying to complete the cabin on 10 acres of woods so I can move there. She loves walking in the woods with me and keeps close, but I can’t take her around the house because the underpinning is not installed and she goes right for the trash, so she stays in a goat pen when I’m working. My sister is an amateur dog trainer, and her advice has helped. Reading these posts have helped, also. I’m trying to be patient, and I’ve learned how to replace sprinkler heads. She’s 6 months now, and I’m hoping she’ll be more settled soon. I’ve thought off and on about re-homing her because, frankly, I’m no fun to be around right now. On the other hand, sometimes I think if I just wait it out, things will get better, especially when I move.
Elizabeth says
Please think twice about reforming her. I find myself in about the same situation. Grief, putting my life together and a full of life pup…. Just recently, I have noticed a huge change in her… She is settling in and things are going better. We recently had an experience where a cub came onto the porch, the front door was closed. I heard a noise, never considering a bear, I went to open the door. She put herself between me and the door and kept pushing me away. When I went around her, she jumped and knocked me over into the chair and immediately was licking my face…. When I regined myself and stopped laughing I did open the door… To find claw marks on my steps and porch. She has proven herself to me, living in the country! Good luck to you and your baby…
Erin says
Never try to “change these dogs natural instinct to protect “!!!! It could Save your life!!! These dog are worth any irritation they give off!! Would you want someone to change what you inherited and like about yourself? No! If you like being under constant protection and fierce love get a cocker spaniel or a poodle!
Joni Freeman says
We have had blue heelers for over 25+ years and truly love the breed.. We currently have 3 now and the oldest is 15!!! They have all been raised with our kids and grandkids with lots of love for all of them? I would certainly recommend these beautiful amazing puppies/doggies for any family looking for a awesome family member!!!
Just says
We have an 11 week old Blue Heeler. Picks up on commands/tricks VERY quickly. It’s awesomely pleasing how smart these dogs are. Already knows how to ring the bell to be let out. Wait, etc.
When in the midst of bad behavior however it’s really difficult to get him to stop. Jumping on people, constantly biting/mouthing, nipping, biting the leash, and barking/growling at us are a constant issue.
Wondering how other owners stopped these behaviors in their tracks.
This little buddy has all the potential to be AMAZING. Would love some advice.
Joni Freeman says
We have had blue heelers for over 25+ years and truly love the breed.. We currently have 3 now and the oldest is 15!!! They have all been raised with our kids and grandkids with lots of love for all of them? I would certainly recommend these beautiful amazing puppies/doggies for any family looking for a awesome family member!!!
Erin says
Sounds typical of wanting to play! Take her on a long walk run! Do not ever try and downgrade natural instinct in a dog or you could end up with a couch potato who let’s murderers in with zero problems! My heeler is a nut! Very aggressive but she will defend me to the death never change that!! Let it be and roll with it
Sherri says
There’s a difference in being protective and being aggressive. Aggressive is never a good thing.
Simon Parker says
We have an 18month old Blue Heeler, who we watched from birth (we know his parents owners), and who arrived with us as a very small puppy. Our other dog is an older (12 years) miniature poodle, who was initially slightly bigger than our new arrival. That has changed, and he is now 30kg to her 8.
Beautiful, loving dog who loves cuddles, and is friendly to everyone, whether person or dog. He jumps at everyone, though, which people find scary. We’re working on that.
He is hard work, though. Demanding play a couple of times a day. This is active play, with either a pull toy or, his favorite, a Kong ball.
Very clever, and easy to train. He’s a joy to have around, but I would never recommend a young dog like this for anyone who can’t play with him (btw, walking him is not enough, he needs to PLAY!!!). We have two teenagers at home, and a big property, so he gets a lot of running and fetching in.
Great dog, if you have the room and time.
Erin says
I live in an apartment! Blue heelers ADAPT!!! mine is proof! Less than 2 years old feisty PROTECTIVE very cool dog I will be happy to overlook her idiosyncrasies! She rules! Nobody touching me without a problem!!!
Brian Sutton says
WE have a nine yrs old Bluie female loves running ,playing etc .She growls at anyone patting her even me ,her boss,I tell my wife she is purring like a cat.The 20 months old Red Heeler female, (Missy) jumps on everyone that annoys our visitors,she has fear attacks lately, but get a lot of love from us ,we rescued her at aged 11 months .Loves playing with toys and rounding up our Chooks (chickens) if we let them out on our 1 acre,but kills them by holding them down.We love her so will probably get rid of the chickens.They both love riding in our car wanting the front seat every time,???
Le Moing says
Bonjour, j’ai une femelle Bleue depuis 4,5 ans qui est géniale (bon ne jamais oublier les 2 premières années difficiles). J’aimerais savoir combien coûtait cette race en 2004 ? Pour voir l’évolution jusqu’à aujourd’hui. Nous avons payé la notre 1200€ en 2014. Tous les tests liés à la race ont été fait par l’éleveuse. Je n’ai pas trouvé d’informations à ce sujet.
Merci
Hello, I have a female Blue for 4.5 years who is great (good never to forget the first 2 difficult years). I would like to know how much this breed cost in 2004? To see the evolution until today. We paid our € 1,200 in 2014. All the tests related to the breed were done by the breeder. I did not find any information about this.
Thank you
Ann Catchings says
I adopted a 5 year old blue heeler 9 years ago. I know his age because he was a stray dog with a collar and tag. The person who found him could not keep him so he came to me. She and I contacted the vet listed on his tag. The vet verified they had seen the dog once but that any mail they had sent to the owner’s address had been returned marked “not at this address”.
He is 14 now. He has been a great dog. Whoever originally had him did some very good training. Some was overboard, though. I think they may have tried to train him as an attack/guard dog. Originally, he would not let me pet him and when I would played with him, he was very rough. At that time, I had two other smaller dogs but he treated them well. Never was aggressive towards them.
It took time but now, he allows me to pet him and he has gentled his play so I am not covered in bruises like I was before.
He has been a very good dog. He is intelligent. Even though, he is fourteen years old even my vet comments on the fact that he shows little sign of being an older dog. I have had no regrets for adopting this wonderful animal.
Cathy Hiemer says
We got a rescue puppy who is now 7 months old and 34 lbs. Recently we had a DNA test done on her and found out she is 12.5% Beagle, 12.5% Australian Cattle Dog, 12.5% Australian Shepherd, 12.5% Siberian Husky, 50% Breed Groups Terrier, Companion and Sporting. She sheds terribly and I have never had a dog that sheds before. She’s all black with some wirery white hair her back. I brush and I brush and I’m wondering if it would be beneficial to have her hair trimmed. We live in Nebrasksa where it snows.
Kerri says
My husband brought me home a 9 week old rescue puppy.
We know that it is part Cattle dog, according to two separate vets and he looks and acts like it.
Have no idea what else.
Has a white tail like a husky curls.
But not floofy.
Black ears and orange along the inside ridge.
Body is white with lots of ticking.
Slowly getting more coloring.
But has this week, wavy soft but coarse hair down his spine.
(Weird..)
Has actually been the easiest dog to train, besides my childhood Border Collie.
(My puppy loves a squeaky ball as a reward or tiny blueberry dog treats. Really loves his ball.)
About 12 weeks old and knows begining basic obedience.
Sit, Sit Stay, Down, Down stay, back up.
Working on heel, leave it,etc.
We do puzzle games,walk around my property, car rides,shopping,etc.
(Likes the balls in a muffin pan game, with tennis balls on top.
A treat underneath them.)
He loves the cattle ranch on the side of my property.
He sits on the deck, watchs and smiles.
He loves everyone in my home.
But seems to have mainly attached to just me. Ha Ha 😀
He’s great meeting people, new sounds,surfaces,etc.
My dogs go just about everywhere with me. So, definitely socializing him.
I made sure it’s a positive experience for him.
(We go when it’s not packed.)
The people at the feed store love him.
Only issues we had/have are:
Originally, severe food aggression.
(Would bite people and animals if given the chance.)
I think he has only lived outside and was possibly abused.
First week would wake up crying, if he wasnt touching me when sleeping.
Now I just wake up with him laying across my body. LOL
And isn’t crying if wakes up without touching me.
I hand fed.
Now I hold the bowl and can handle the food or him.
Haven’t graduated to bowl on the floor yet or having animals in the room, without a reaction.
If the animals not eating together doesn’t happen.
We’ll just do what we do now, gate in the kitchen separating them.
Have had a few successful days with it on the floor, breifly handling him or the food.
He plays extremely rough with my 3 year old pug and has broken the skin with those puppy teeth.
(Superficial scrapes, just to be clear.)
Hasnt lost any puppy teeth yet.
He’s getting better, but I never leave them alone.
I think he thinks the Pug is a puppy.
He plays extremly rough with the Pug. (We are working on this daily.)
Yet, he bathes and sleeps with him.
My grouchy 12 year old Lhasa Apso, he never plays rough with him.
But, I’m brushing up on my Cattle Dog info. LOL 😉
So, Thanks!
Morgan Lucky says
I adopted an 8-month-old heeler who was very red but clearly not a full red heeler because he has ears that flop over. We would spend 3-4 hours at the dog park playing fetch and he would still destroy things in my house for a few months. He has broken the habit now. He was not very food driven which made training difficult but! If I gave him the more expensive dog treats he was very receptive. He learned to sit, lay down, stay, kennel and ring the bell to go outside within two weeks. He is such a smart dog who loves to go on runs that keep me active. We frequently participate in 5k’s and different runs. I just adopted a 2-year-old American blue heeler with a mask last week. She is the most affectionate, people-pleasure, cuddler I have ever had for a dog. She is very smart and has caught onto various commands that she didn’t know. She watches him and follows what he does. They highly enjoy each other. They wrestle and play tug-a-war creating a way to expend their energy.
Joyce Currington says
My son purchased a beautiful blue heeler female at about 8 weeks of age. Apparently the owner docked her tail on his own and messed her up. She has no control on bowel movement and pee. He got her in hopes of taking her on his semi with him, but this problem prevented that. One vet suggested putting her down. My son couldn’t see doing that to an 8 week old puppy without giving her a chance to live.
A neighbor took her, but because of their limited space, she spent a lot of time on their back porch so kept it very messy.
My husband and I have her now. She is quite active. At first I got the puppy diapers, but the opening for her tail was not working out for her. I not have her in size 1 baby diapers, she seems quite happy, and often lets me know when she needs a change. I noticed today that she seemed to be wagging her tail. Could this be an indication that she could grow out of her problem and begin to have normal control? Like I said, she is quite active and loves to run in the yard. She has selected me as her human!
Beth says
I had the same kind of issue with Holly a Jack Russell. At birth had no control but later in life got a little better. Yes vet wanted to destroy but I took her to give her a chance. After 15.6 WONDERFUL YEARS. We did the diaper thing, keeping on towels so I could wash. YES 15.6 years later. Holly was the best dog she understood her issues and she still lead a happy busy life. At 14 she lost her hearing and vision at the same time. She had her issues but every day was so strong. She was also dealing with a loss of our 13 years old Blue Heeler. Our Healer was named Rowdy for a reason. Rowdy would have been the eyes and ears for our Jack Russell but a growth on the stomach took her down. So loyal to each other. Now both are gone their ashes sleep together today and forever!
RICK L JOHNS says
We are considering adopting an 8 year old female blue heeler. Does this breed kill cats and/or chickens?
Laurie says
My Heelers loved the chicks! He didn’t want to eat them, just play which really isn’t good since he was a large boy. I trained him to keep wandering cats out of the yard, but he never got aggressive, just liked to scare them. All in all, they will do what you train them to do. Just keep in mind that every personality is different.
XenoLily says
My Cattle Dog is an avid bird watcher! We have had a herd of wild turkeys walk 10 ft from his window and he just stared with fascination. He struggles with wanting to chase any squirrel he sees on his walk. But if we come across a bird; he instantly relaxes and just watches it flit around.
I would recommend introducing the chickens to your new pup slowly, with a fence between if possible, and be very firm about your expectations. Even if he is more “in your face” curious than mine, they are SO smart and receptive to training that I do not see co-habituating with chickens being an issue.
dsedwards says
I had a blue heeler show up at my home in January. No owner found so I decided to keep her. The vet estimated she is about 2 yrs old. I am having the normal issues with her behavior although, I think overall she has improved some. I have a pet-sitting business out of my home and she does pretty good with all the dogs that come in. My situation is this, When she came, there were 5 other people living with me, now, its just me. I know she doesn’t get the proper amount of exercise but she seems pretty happy but extremely attached to me, she even sleeps with me now and likes to be snuggled up close. She is always wanting to lick or paw at me even when I am petting on her already and separation anxiety is a big thing with her. My real concern with her is that she only has me, would it be better for her to have a “family” environment? I ask this because she doesn’t get the socialization that she should. When anyone comes over, she is constantly barking and if you don’t watch her, she will come behind and nip. I love her dearly but I also want the best life for her. I know of a family that is interested in her but I am struggling with the decision to keep her or not. They are a family of 5. They have 3 kids, which concerns me some also. I am very conflicted, I think she was “dumped” at my house and worried that if I give her away then she will feel abandoned again. She is very fearful of a lot of things. Please, I need some advise.
Laurie says
The best thing to do is visit the family and see how it goes. If she’s been with you for a time, she will probably not want to leave you. But, the good news is my heeler mix (most of the heeler traits) did alright when my disks collapsed. I took him to run free at a local park (with permission) three days a week. He could run his legs off and I had no problems with him running away. (Always keep ‘cookies’ on hand.) They’re usually better off-leash anyway.
XenoLily says
I rescued my Pup when he was 1 years old. This sounds very familiar. It took a lot of work, and about 2 years, for me to get him comfortable around new people.
If you are constantly having new faces show up around the house, she is going to have a harder time. With Todd, especially with any man, it will take on average 6 or so times of meeting you before he feels comfortable enough with them to let them pet him or really play.
I would set up some Play/Visit dates with the family. Todd LOVES kids! They are the best to adventure with. It is always a transition, but see how she interacts with them. My guess…she will run off with the kids and start playing. (Just watch that she isn’t trying to heard them.) You have her best interest in mind, see how she reacts. ***Pro tip: On leash and off leash are 100% different. If at all able I would recommend being off leash for at least part of the visit. She will not feel as much of a need to protect you or freak because she is unable to move away from a stressful situation. At least that is how Todd responds best to new people. Off leash is less stressful for him.
Heather says
I have a red heeler she is really sweet. She does nip at the kids. She goes nuts if the cats walk anywhere in the house. She has the loudest bark which she uses to let us know the neighbors are home, a leaf fell, she’s bored, wants to play, can’t find us ect. Her first year she ate toys, money, entire socks, rain gutters ect. That is better now that she is 11/2. She gets daily walks or hikes. We play Frisbee a few hours a day too. They are great working dogs but if you have kids maybe consider another breed. She is really sweet and protective of us which is nice.
Sue Lofsness says
I have a blue heeler he is almost 3 years old. Honestly this dog is a good dog but drives me crazy. He is always in your business but tries to take over or jump into what you are doing. If we have a fire he has to bite at the wood my husband puts in the fire. If my husband takes a shower he goes crazy when my husband wipes out the shower. Any kind of motion wheels, etc. he wants to chase. I wish I would have known these things before getting this dog it was quite an adjustment to my life.
Paxyn says
Hi there! My blue heeler is an Australian Shepard mix, he is 9 years old now this month. I feel like it’s to late to train him since we never did when he was a puppy. He doesn’t have much social interaction due to us living outside the city.
What do you think would be the best way to train him? He knows how to sit and lay down, he knows the command ‘come’, he knows how to give me his paw, and he knows the command ‘stay’. I want to teach him more though, like how to crawl, and roll over. What do you recommend?
JANICE IRENE CORKERY says
MY BLUE HEELER is a mix of border collie and blue heeler. I am 82 yrs. old and I love, love love her. I named her Gidget and she loves everyone!! I had to go to the cleaners and a toddler there climbed all over her. She was a wild child as a puppy, but I have never been without a dog. After we got through that, she was pretty mellow, but needs a lot of exercise. Fortunately, I still like to hike and bike. She goes everywhere with me and sleeps with me at night. I thank God every day for her. She is healthy, curious, and affectionate and we are very happy together. She also was the brightest dog in the agility class.
stephen phillips says
Adopted heeler husky mix
Dog park 5 days a week
So socialble, must meet and greet every dog and person that enters park, had aggressive dogs in past, this dog gets along with all. Will nip legs and other body parts, like a good pinch. Very intelligent, loyal and protective at home and even at park, will get between myself and zealous dogs. Very good dog. My last dog lived 23 yrs, good luck to all of you. Spend and share your time with your dog very rewarding
Korie says
Hi Robert,
What a thoughtful gift! I have a 9yr old Blue Heeler/Labrador mix, so she’s on the longer side, though not by much. I just measured her and she’s about 42 inches from snout to tail. Hopefully that helps a little if you haven’t already found that information. Congratulations on your new dog!
Best,
Korie
Vicki Thomas says
My healer is 21/2. We live in the country. I walk every day for about an hour. I had surgery on my foot and had to take a year off from my morning walk. My husband took over feeding and treat giving during this time, I have rehabilitated and back to walking in the morning. I have taken back feeding her dinner at night. My husband still feeds treats during the day. My healer has decided she does not want to walk with me anymore. She stays in the fenced yard and watches my husband work on a garage he is building close to the house. I tried putting her leash on her to encourage her to join me. She sits down and tries to get her collar off. What can I do to encourage her to join me and two cats on our morning walk? HELP, a very lonesome walker here.
Pippa Mattinson says
Hi Vicki, please join the forum for help with your dog!
Nicolaas van Vonno says
We have two. One is a blue female that is 14, the other is a red Male that is ten months. I would suggest trying to walk the dog when your husband is not home, like you are looking for him. Stretch out the walks gradually, trying to always “find” him in the end. It will take care of itself from there.
Neither of ours are apt to cooperate if we don’t respect the instinct that is driving the behavior. Creativity, consistency, and lots of positivity are all we ever get results with.
I often have to check what is going on in my head, as it will be reflected in the dogs behavior. These dogs are like mind readers.
Good luck.
Dawn Tillery says
How to we stop our blue heeler from jumping on people constantly? He is 5 months old, help
Alex says
Teach puppy to sit. A sitting dog can’t jump! Also teach long down for impulse control. This takes time and maturity, though, so set your puppy up to be brilliant by keeping pup on a leash during those first exciting ten – 15 minutes of having guests over. Once pup is calm, leash comes off, time to show off “sit” and “down”! Good pup! Also: my heeler requires regular exercise for several days prior to be in his best frame of mind today.
Izzy says
When my blue wheeler did that I kept turning when she tried to jump just so my back was to her. She wanted me to face her so she stood and then I give her lots of attention. It actually only took one day to stop the jumping.
Robert says
I have been trying to find out what length (head to tail) a blue healer can be expected (on average) to be. My wife bought one and I’m trying to surprise her by buying a dog bath. For this, dimensions are important. I can find height and weight but never length.
Jack Wales says
These dogs are high energy and should not be left in a house for hours at a time as they’ll become visibly depressed and possibly destructive to their surroundings. Under no circumstance should these dogs live in an apartment as they tend to get claustrophobic. Australian Cattle Dogs ideally should be out on the range or farm and don’t make the best domestic suburban/city house dogs unless you are Super Active and I mean Super Active.
Erin says
Sounds typical of wanting to play! Take her on a long walk run! Do not ever try and downgrade natural instinct in a dog or you could end up with a couch potato who let’s murderers in with zero problems! My heeler is a nut! Very aggressive but she will defend me to the death never change that!! Let it be and roll with it
Roxanne says
I have a 5 year old Australian cattle dog and she is fine with our other too dogs except the oldest that was here when I rescued her she tends to pick on but it’s loving but he is an older Shepard lab mix. We just brought in a lost dog and the ospca in this town is horrible. The new pup is about 2 years or so. He’s a Australian sheep dog. She is really mean to him and not dealing the greatest. How do I get her to stop and accept him.
Rachel says
I have 2 blue heelers one is going to be 6 and one is 5 years old.. the 6 year old has something against some of my families shoes hell just nip them when they are off their feet.. He came from a bad situation of abuse trying to find out how to get him to stop. My girl is over weight and was in same situation they are brother and sister both fixed any recommendation that they can be trained now???
Nicolaas van Vonno says
Stay optimistic, these dogs love to learn. They can read your mind. If you expect difficulty, you will not be disappointed.
Hide your shoes where the dog can’t get them, and supply a variety of toys. Be prepared to replace the toys. A lot. The idea is to saturate with things to do. Give that a few weeks, then let the shoes come out. Cheap ones first. Stay with the saturation. Reward good decisions, take the shoes away when there are bad ones. Be gentle, calm, and consistent.
These dogs are truly at their best when they are worked with. We have two as well. New learning comes after a walk, and maybe a recap of behavior that has already been practiced.
Gail says
I have a question about a red heeler/German Shepherd mix. When do heelers typically start trying to herd? She is 5 months old and has not shown any heeling tendencies yet. Perhaps she won’t since she is a mixed breed? Any thoughts from anyone who knows more about heelers?
Carla Desmaraiz says
We have a 14 week old blue heeler at what time will his ears come up. They seem to be coming up.
Korie Poole says
Hi Carla,
My Heeler’s ears were flopped over for almost five months. Then one day she woke up and her ears were perfectly erect. They’ve been that way ever since (she’s 9yrs now). I’m answering this way late and your pup’s probably already made the switch, but figured I’d share anyway ? enjoy your Heeler!
kimberly putzbach says
I just rescued a beagle/Australian cattledog yesterday. It has been an interesting 24 hours! I love him and I want to do the best by him. Biggest issue biting. Determined to go where we barrier and potty training. Any good starter books? Till he gets signed up for training
Jen says
I love all 4 of my ADOPTEES! DNA tested for health and age, & low & behold, 3 are purebred. Lucky me, in all ways. These are the smartest dogs in the world, and I will not ever parent another. They have my whole heart. 4 is about enough to drive a human crazy, but life is never boring for certain. ??
Sherri says
I have a 6 year old female blue heeler. She is turning white on her back and back legs. Do they start changing colors?
Helen Fowler says
Heelers seem to change colors often, sometimes with each major shedding. It’s usually subtle, so sometimes you might suddenly notice it so it just seems all of a sudden. My all blue Sophie (from red momma and blue dad) had none of the tan points on her, but as she got past to be about 11, her lower legs began to show a reddish tint to them. And she got more white with the black hairs, especially on her face. Her back stripe changed all the time, too. It’s normal. Take pictures each spring and fall and see the changes! 🙂
Kate McCulloch says
Yes they do, if you take regular photos from birth you wont believe its the same dog sometimes.Average age is 12 years she may be getting”grey” in her old age.
Carol says
I would like to know the best DVD to purchase in order to train my blue heeler. He was 1 yr. In Dec. I got him from a neighbor because she did not have the time for him. He hasn”t been neutered or has had any training. Very sweet and smart. Wants to continuously jump on people and gets very excited with loud noises such as large trucks, tractors and lawn mowers. If I let him go he heads up the road and will not listen. I have a hard time getting his attention and keeping it. He is a large healer and very strong. My arms have been scratched several with his jumping. My husband wants to try a shock collar but I don”t. I know I may need to confined him in a fenced area. How do they react with invisible fenced. He is much better after he runs off a lot of his energy. I want to keep him if possible but I also want what is best for him.
Nicolaas van Vonno says
Dogs wander because they are not happy with the amount of exercise that they are getting. Type (mental and physical) is as important as amount. Treats. We get huge results with treats.
Just to be honest, if you sequester and confine this dog it will go nuts. Ours want to everything with us. The young one will get in the shower with me. Everything.
The more that you work with this dog, the better it will go.Take the dog somewhere after some exercise so that it can practice, and do it often. These dogs are a lifestyle, but it’s an amazing one.
Good luck, and remember that the dog can just about read your mind. Stay positive to your core. They are exceedingly hard to deceive once. Have not seen it twice.
SHELIA STARR says
Somebody said my blueheeler pup is not full blood because it does not have different color eyes Both of his eyes are blue. Can you tell me if this is true or a myth
Linda says
Stop listening to people that have no idea what they are talking about. Australian Shepard’s have different colored eyes. Generally a heeler has brown eyes. If the puppy is very young his blue eyes may turn brown.
Jen says
My DNA tested purebred adopted Blue has blue/brown in both eyes. It does not matter. Some have all brown, or all blue or one of each, or one half, or 2 halves, like my girl. They are all unique, and so very special.
sonia says
My new heeler had beautiful gray stone eyes at 6 wks but now that she’s 10 weeks they are brown and still beautiful. I love her either way
Nicolaas van Vonno says
The merle gene that causes different colored eyes is lethal to cattle dogs. Brown eyes are the standard.
Trish says
I have a question about my blue heeler. She had surgery and her beautiful coat was shaved in two places. Around the middle of her body is growing back slowly. However it’s taking some time around her neck. So I am just wondering if anyone has ever had issues with the coat growing back at all. Thank you for any information that would be helpful in helping this process as well.
Michael says
We just took one in who had surgery and I can’t even tell where they made the incision, much less see any odd spots in his coat. Hopefully that means the hair on yours will come in after a while.
Christina Madison says
We have a rescue with a large scar down her back. It appears to be fairly old (she’s 2yrs old) but no sign of hair growth on the scar areas.
Meg says
My girl was spayed a year and a half ago and the hair never grew back. I don’t mind because it’s on her stomach and you can’t see it. But I think this area is different than being on the top of her coat.