Heeler Dogs: What You Should Know

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Heelers are a type of dog that is typically kept as a working dogs. They embody high energy that’s ready to work and a great natural ability to heel. The word heeler was originally a type of side saddle that a rider would use to control a horse.

The Origin of Heeler Dogs

Some people may be confused as to why these dogs, which were originally bred as working dogs, are now typically used as a pet. The answer to this question is relatively simple.

In the early 1800s, Australia was experiencing a mass sheep population boom, and farmers found that they needed a way to keep track of all their sheep. So they created these special dogs with high intelligence and energy.

Of the breeds of heelers, the most popular are the Australian cattle dog, the Queensland heeler, and the Australian heeler.

What do heeler dogs look like?

The heeler is a peculiar dog. They have a strange mix of genes that look a little strange to the common man, but all of it looks beautiful to a heeler woman. Herding dogs, spaniels, and terriers, this dog is a combination of many breeds. A heeler dog can have a variety of colors from red, wheaten, black and tan, blue, brindle, and even white.

Their ears are erect and long, their tails point upward, and they have strong jaws for a dog its size. They have a round body and usually a foxy face.

Heeler dogs, in general, are usually smarter than average. They can be strong and can tough. They usually weigh between 20 and 29 pounds and they can be anywhere from 18 and 24 inches tall.

The coat is usually short and smooth and though it can be hard to groom when the heeler does relax it’s smooth.

How to choose a heeler dog?

Below are things you should consider when choosing a heeler dog:

Determine how much time you have to spend with your dog

A heeler typically requires a lot of attention. If you are too busy to spend time with your dog, then a heeler probably isn’t the right dog for you.

Choose a puppy or an adult dog

You might be wondering if it’s easier to train a heeler as a puppy or as an adult dog. The answer is, both are pretty equally as easy to train.

Prepare your living space

Housetraining your dog is the most important factor to take into consideration. If you live in an apartment, or if you live in a place where there are a lot of distractions, it will be hard to keep your heeler off the furniture.

Who should get a heeler dog?

A heeler is a perfect companion for a country lifestyle. If you’re looking for a dog that can work cattle, hunt, or play in your backyard, a heeler is a perfect way to go.