Lancashire Heeler

The Lancashire Heeler is a strong and resilient canine that originated from the Northwest of England. Believed to have descended from the Welsh Corgi and Manchester Terrier, this small but sturdy breed has an enthusiastic spirit with a fondness for people. The Heeler was initially used as a drover’s dog which accounts for its aggressive mannerism; therefore it requires an owner who can confidently guide them while managing their independent nature and high level of energy.

The Lancashire Heeler bears an uncanny resemblance to the Manchester Terrier in terms of its coloration, while adopting the Corgi‘s shape and mannerisms. This “nip and duck” canine is adept at biting into cattle heels before quickly evading any kicks that may follow. With droving now a thing of the past, this breed has found another niche as a ratter – it still possesses an instinctive urge to unearth and eliminate vermin to this day!

The low-maintenance coat of a Lancashire Heeler features a glossy, coarse exterior that can be black or liver with tan markings. Boasting an undercoat below the thick and weatherproof top layer, you’ll find the fur is slightly longer around their neck area. To keep this breed’s coat in prime condition, regular brushing with a firm bristle brush will do the trick!

Intelligent, alert and loving – the Heeler loves to be around its owners in the home. What’s more, when outdoors it will hunt down vermin with determination and fervor! Not only that but it also likes having fun; usually chasing a ball for hours on end is all too commonplace. But don’t forget about those lazy days, lounging on the sofa while having your belly tickled is just as enjoyable! With a house full of one of these dogs you can rest assured there’ll never been any pesky mice or beetles causing havoc again.

This is an intelligent and strong-willed breed, so it requires a significant amount of patience and consistency when training. It’s important to be assertive in your approach but also understand the Heeler needs to stay busy as they were bred for work. Participating in competitions like flyball can help keep them content. As herding dogs, they may have the tendency to bite at people’s ankles which should be curbed from puppyhood with enough physical activity and mental stimulation.

Lancashire Heelers require a minimum of one-hour exercise daily, with chasing toys and balls being their favorite activities. They are good walking partners; however, their eagerness to be around your ankles can make them bothersome for running alongside you. Though they love having access to a garden for rummaging, it’s not necessary as long as these little dogs get enough physical activity – once exercised adequately, most will remain silent and composed in the home environment.