10 Blue Heeler Facts | Facts About The Blue Heeler

Intelligent, active, and sturdy. These are only some of the characteristics that define the Blue Heeler. Also known as the Australian Cattle Dog, they were initially bred to handle herds in ranches. But as natives got to know the dogs, they found that Blue Heelers are also affectionate and family-oriented dogs.

Families love having them around because they love to get involved in family activities such as hiking, swimming, and picnicking. These creatures may be born to hunt, but inside their tough exterior is a soft heart that cares for their master. They’re very loyal to people and will do everything in their power to keep their loved ones happy. Are you planning to have a Blue Heeler? Here are other facts you need to know.

10 Facts About The Blue Heeler

Fact #1: Blue Heelers Originated In Australia

These dogs were first bred in the 19th century by Australian settlers. People wanted to create a breed that can help ranchers expand the beef industry. Hence, they produced the first Australian Cattle Dog to herd and control cattle with its strong prey drive.

Robert Kaleski created the first Blue Heeler, basing it on the Dingo, a native Australian dog famous for its agility and hunting instincts. At first, the dogs have named the Australian Heeler but as time passed by, they were eventually renamed the Australian Cattle Dog. Although it was first bred in 1893, it wasn’t registered in the roster of the American Kennel Club until the 1980s. Since then, there’s an influx of breeding because of the dire need for cattle dogs.

Fact #2: The Australian Cattle Dog Is A Medium-sized Breed

Some people are hesitant to get one because they believe that Blue Heelers are huge creatures. Little do they know that they’re a medium-sized breed that stands up to 20 inches tall and weighs up to 50 pounds. Despite their size, they can easily herd animals up to five times their size. This makes them ideal for ranchers and barn owners in dealing with rowdy animals.

Fact #3: The Blue Heeler Name Is Based On Color

Australian Cattle Dogs come in two colors: red and blue. The reason why people call others the Blue Heeler is their blue coat. But if it comes in red, then they are called the Red Heelers. Despite what people think, not all Blue Heelers have a solid blue color. Some have white marks on their bodies that accentuate their sturdy and energetic bodies.

Fact #4: Blue Heelers Have A Dense Double Coat

The coat of the Blue Heeler is unique because of its two layers— one undercoat and one outer coat. This makes them water-resistant. It doesn’t matter when or where they herd, they can withstand extreme temperatures. They can help you manage your cattle under the scorching heat of the sun and the frosty cold of winter.

Yet despite their tolerance to various weather, you still need to consider their health. Do not expose them to temperature extremities unless you really need help with herding. Like other dogs, they need warmth to ward off the cold and shade to maintain their normal body heat. If you observe their needs, you can assure that your Blue Heeler will be healthy and active until it grows old.

Fact #5: Blue Heelers Are A Mix Of Several Dog Breeds

The Blue Heeler is a crossbreed of various dogs that were bred for herding. This includes the English Sheepdog, the native Dingoes of Australia, the Dalmatians Kelpies, and Border Collies. It’s no surprise that the Blue Heelers are called the ideal cattle dogs of all time. They inherited the prey drive, the agility, and strength of their predecessors that gave them the power to fulfill their purpose as herding dogs.

Fact #6: One Of The Most Intelligent Dog Breeds

Not only are Blue Heelers energetic but they are also intelligent dogs. Because of their keen intelligence, this breed is often trained for performance events like tracking, obedience, and rally. Doing both mental and physical work makes Blue Heelers happy and satisfied. As responsible owners, it is your responsibility to keep them trained and socialized to unleash their potentials.

Fact #7: They Need To Be Kept Active

As much as possible, give your Blue Heeler something to do even if you’re not at home. Because of their high prey drive and energy, they need regular stimulation. So, before you leave them alone, give them a toy or assign them a chore to keep them busy throughout the day. Without it, they could get bored and might resort to destructive activities such as digging and biting.

Fact #8: An Adventurous Breed

These dogs love to be involved in family activities. Whenever you go camping or swimming, take your Blue Heeler with you if possible. This will satisfy their curiosity and adventure needs which help in boosting their mental and physiological health. Look at the bright side, they can protect you from harmful people and animals. Plus, they can help you hunt food whenever you run out of supplies.

Fact#9: The Blue Heeler Is A Shadow Dog

The Blue heelers are loyal and protective dogs. Once it has established a trusting relationship with its owner, the dog follows closely behind wherever its owner goes. This breed is also suspicious of strangers and makes the Blue Heeler an exceptional watchdog. Its owner can feel its love and loyalty but the opposite will be felt by strangers who dare to harm its loved ones.

Fact #10: Like Other Breeds, The Blue Heeler Is Prone To Illnesses

Every dog is generally healthy provided that its owners provide proper care. This includes their grooming, diet, exercise, and vet needs. Without it, they are more prone to allergies, hip dysplasia, and hypothyroidism. Some experts even found that Blue Heelers are prone to Progressive Retinal Atrophy, an eye disease that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina.

To prevent these illnesses, you need the assistance of a reliable vet. This way, they can advise about the strategies on how you can keep your Blue Heeler healthy. Caring for medium-sized breeds usually costs 300 to 500 dollars annually. But this can be lessened depending on the care provided by their owners.

There you have it! People love having these dogs around because of their active, intelligent, and affectionate nature. It’s no surprise if you want to have one as well. Do you think you can care for one? If so, there’s no stopping you from getting one of the most caring dogs to love you.