Blue Heeler Dogs

These are high-energy, clever and active dogs. Not content with sitting around the house for hours on end, Blue Heelers will encourage you to take them outside for exercise, play and work.

Blue Heeler Pictures

see Blue Heeler pictures »

Quick Facts

weight: 35 - 45 pounds
height: 17 - 20 inches

Ideal Human Companions

Singles
Active, sporty types
Families
Hunters
Cattle breeders

Blue Heelers on Dogster

1,526 dogs | see profile pages

ADD YOURS

Trademark Traits

Intelligent
Resourceful
Active
Alert
Hard-working
Protective

What They Are Like to Live With

Blue Heelers, like most herders, can be one-person dogs. They also have a unique independence, not requiring much in the way of cuddling or affection. Though tough and resolute, they will definitely appreciate positive feedback and good treatment. Sometimes their herding instincts can suddenly come into play. They may "herd" family members or nip lightly at heels if they want something.

They don’t bark too much, but they are still very protective of the home. Blue Heelers can be cautious and wary—qualities that make them excellent watchdogs. They are also friendly and loving companions.

Things You Should Know

Blue Heelers need activities, tasks and lots of room to run; therefore, they are probably not suited for apartment living. Without open spaces and jobs to do, they can get into mischief and destructiveness. Easily trained, they need a firm hand controlling them so that they don’t bond with another dominant dog in the neighborhood.

Some may have the urge to nip. A toy can solve this problem. Just be sure it’s a tough one: Blue Heelers can tear a typical dog toy to shreds in one sitting. Also remember: Keep your Blue Heeler on a leash. They are very curious and love to run and roam. Also, they can have issues with dogs they don’t know very well.

A healthy Blue Heeler can live as long as 15 years. Common health issues can include eye problems, hip dysplasia and deafness.

Blue Heeler History

Mixing native Dingoes with Collies and other herding dogs, Australian George Elliott developed the Blue Heeler in 1840. Australian cattlemen and ranchers loved the breed’s toughness and work ethic, and the dogs quickly became popular as cattle herders. They are also called Australian Heelers, Queensland Heelers and Australian Cattle Dogs.

The Look of a Blue Heeler

Blue Heelers are solid, sturdy and compact dogs with an alert, ready-to-work stance. Slightly longer than tall with curved, hanging tails, they have muscular legs and strong necks and broad, somewhat rounded heads with pointy ears. Their dense, weather-resistant coats come blue speckled or red speckled—both with possible dark or tan markings.

Talk About Blue Heelers

He chooses me before anyone else

I love how intelligent Inky is and the fact that he will choose me before anyone else. He barks a lot and always wants to play ball.

Since I trained him at a young age, he knows not to nip. Any toy I buy him he destroys in the matter of seconds. They are amazing dogs. I honestly don't know what I'd do without Inky -- he is always so happy to see everyone and he protects my family with his life.

~Jodi T., owner of a Blue Heeler/Eskimo mix

Toys quickly get destroyed

Gunner is very smart. Give him a toy and it becomes a game on how fast he can get the thing torn apart. Soft toys are a waste of money but he loves them. He as alot of energy and loves to play. He likes it when I give him piggyback rides.

Get your Blue Heeler as a puppy and train them early -- they are very protective. They need a firm but loving hand, otherwise they will run the house and you. Show them love and they will give it back tenfold.

Gunner loves to be outside and play with his toys. Blue Heelers are working dogs so having a yard to play is a must. The best thing about this breed is they are loyal. I would be lost without him.

~Viki J, owner of a Blue Heeler