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Blue Heeler Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Blue Heeler so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Pastoral / Herding Dogs
Popularity Rank518
Reviews2
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Blue Heeler dog profile picture
OriginAustralia flagAustralia
Other Names
What other names does the Blue Heeler have?
Australian Cattle DogCattle DogQueensland HeelerRed Heeler
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Blue Heeler Size and Weight

Size
Is a Blue Heeler small, medium or large dog?

How big do Blue Heeler get?

What is the average size of a Blue Heeler?

Medium
Weight
How much does the Blue Heeler weigh? How much should a Blue Heeler weight? What is the normal weight of a Blue Heeler? How much does a full-grown Blue Heeler weight?
30-62 pounds (13-28 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Blue Heeler?
46 pounds (20.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Blue Heeler? Blue Heeler height:
Male: 17-20 inches (43-51 cm), Female: 17-19 inches (43-48 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Blue Heeler?
Male: 18.5 inches (47 cm), Female: 18 inches (45.5 cm)

Blue Heeler Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Blue Heeler puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Blue Heeler in the United States? How much money is a Blue Heeler?

Where to buy a Blue Heeler with a good pedigree?

$400-$800
If you choose to purchase the Blue Heeler, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Blue Heeler for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Blue Heeler gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Blue Heeler? How many Blue Heeler are there in the world?
Rare: You may rarely see each other in everyday life, but you might catch a glimpse of each other at dog shows.

There are very few of them, and there have been times when they have almost drifted to the brink of extinction, so few are left.

Blue Heeler Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Blue Heeler? Is the Blue Heeler breed dumb or smart?
Smart: The Blue Heeler dogs have great intelligence. They understand and memorize new commands in 15-25 repetitions.

The Blue Heeler is among the smartest dogs in the intelligence ranking.

Trainability
Are Blue Heeler dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Blue Heeler?
Blue Heeler dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly.
Watchdog Ability
Is Blue Heeler good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Blue Heeler dogs are one of the best watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're very consistent in their effort. The best vocal cords and sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're very territorial and protective about their property, so the Blue Heeler dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Blue Heeler dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Blue Heeler dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Blue Heeler can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Blue Heeler will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Blue Heeler Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Blue Heeler have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
ActiveProtectiveAlertIntelligentHard workingResourceful
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Blue Heeler sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Blue Heeler dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Blue Heeler a good family dog?
Slightly Below Average: Blue Heeler dogs may seem unfriendly sometimes due to their independence. Their happiness doesn't depend on their owner's emotional level.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Australian Cattle Dog need? Blue Heeler social needs:
Blue Heeler dogs are kinda antisocial. This breed doesn't like being around people all the time, they tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Blue Heeler to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Blue Heeler roam?
The wanderlust potential of the Blue Heeler is strong enough to escape from home. They have a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Blue Heeler have high prey drive?
Blue Heeler dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. Cats or any other small animals might be in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Blue Heeler dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Blue Heeler Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Blue Heeler is a highly playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Blue Heeler dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Australian Cattle Dog bark?
Low to Average: The Blue Heeler rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Blue Heeler good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Blue Heeler in an apartment?
Not an apartment-friendly dog the Blue Heeler breed. If you don't have a garden, think carefully about your decision, keeping Blue Heeler indoors can cause a lot of problems.

Blue Heeler Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Average: Blue Heeler dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Blue Heeler be left alone? How long can you leave a Blue Heeler alone?
Blue Heeler dogs handle alone time quite well. They are not prone to have separation anxiety.

Blue Heeler Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Blue Heeler has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Blue Heeler? How much bite force does a Blue Heeler have? How strong is a Blue Heeler bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Blue Heeler bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Blue Heeler measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Blue Heeler is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Blue Heeler bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Blue Heeler bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Blue Heeler puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Blue Heeler, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Blue Heeler bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Blue Heeler can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do Blue Heeler bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Australian Cattle Dog? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Blue Heeler? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Blue Heeler has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Blue Heeler do?
Blue Heeler dogs have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Blue Heeler dogs need to be taught a good attitude. We have compiled a list of Mouthy Dog Breeds.

Blue Heeler Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Blue Heeler dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Blue Heelers are commonly healthy dogs. Vet costs aren't expensive with this breed.
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Blue Heeler breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Blue Heeler see the vet?
Rare
The Blue Heeler should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year). If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Blue Heeler dogs live? How old can a Blue Heeler be? What is the age limit of the Blue Heeler? How many years can the oldest Blue Heeler live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Blue Heeler?

How long is the lifespan of a Blue Heeler?

11-15 years
The average lifespan of Blue Heeler: 13 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.

Blue Heeler Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Blue Heeler have? What is the activity level of the Blue Heeler?
Blue Heeler dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Blue Heeler need? How much exercise do Blue Heeler dogs require per day?

Do Blue Heeler dogs need a lot of exercises?

Blue Heeler dogs need a lot of exercises. Long walks should be on a daily schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Blue Heeler breed need?
Blue Heeler dogs don't need too much sleep. They are energetic and desire to live active life. If you think naps are overrated, this breed can be the best choice for you.

Blue Heeler Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Blue Heeler need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Blue Heeler breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Blue Heeler? How much food should I feed my Blue Heeler?
1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Blue Heeler risk for obesity:
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Blue Heeler's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Blue Heeler weight regularly.

Blue Heeler Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Blue Heeler have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
Dense
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Blue Heeler coats?
Blue Red speckledBlue speckledBlue MottledRed Mottled
Grooming
How to groom the Blue Heeler and how often? How often should I take my Blue Heeler to the groomer?
Effortless: The Blue Heeler requires minimal grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned sometimes to avoid infections. Blue Heeler is one of the best choices if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Highly recommended for beginners.
Shedding Level
How much do Blue Heeler dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Australian Cattle Dog? Do Blue Heeler dogs shed a lot?
Blue Heeler dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Blue Heeler need a bath? How often should you give a Blue Heeler a bath? Can I bathe my Blue Heeler every day?
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Blue Heeler breed hypoallergenic?
No
Blue Heeler dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The Blue Heeler has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Blue Heeler drool?
The Blue Heeler is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Blue Heeler could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Blue Heeler.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Blue Heeler Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Blue Heeler dogs get along with other pets? Are Blue Heeler dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Blue Heeler dogs usually don’t get on well with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Blue Heeler temperament with other people:
Blue Heeler dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are Blue Heeler dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Blue Heeler temperament with children:
Blue Heeler dogs are not the most kid-friendly dogs. If you have children, you may have to reconsider your choice of having a puppy from this breed.
Cat Friendly
How well do Blue Heeler dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Blue Heeler breed live with a cat?
Blue Heeler dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Blue Heeler good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Blue Heeler dogs get along with other dogs?
Blue Heeler dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Blue Heeler is not a good choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Blue Heeler breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Blue Heeler breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Blue Heeler dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Blue Heeler dogs good office canines? Do Blue Heeler dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Blue Heeler is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Blue Heeler dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Australian Cattle Dog temperament with senior people? Are Blue Heeler dogs good for elderly owners?
Blue Heelers are not the best breed for elderly people.

Blue Heeler As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Blue Heeler be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Blue Heeler is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Blue Heeler be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Blue Heeler be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Blue Heeler is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Blue Heeler be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Blue Heeler is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Blue Heeler be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Blue Heeler is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Blue Heeler be a boat dog?

Not really

Blue Heeler breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Blue Heeler be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Blue Heeler is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Blue Heeler dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Blue Heeler Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Blue Heeler pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Blue Heeler breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Blue Heeler: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Blue Heeler have in a litter? How many puppies can the Blue Heeler breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Blue Heeler have? How many puppies can a Blue Heeler give birth to?
1-7 puppies

Blue Heeler Recognition

AKC Group
Is Blue Heeler recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Blue Heeler recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Not recognized by FCI.

Blue Heeler Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligent Rank: Smart: The Blue Heeler dogs have great intelligence.
  • Trainability: Blue Heeler dogs are easy to train.
  • Health Issues: Blue Heelers are commonly healthy dogs.
  • Grooming: Effortless: The Blue Heeler requires minimal grooming.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Blue Heeler is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Watchdog Ability: Blue Heeler dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: Blue Heeler dogs handle alone time quite well.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Blue Heeler dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: Blue Heeler dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Friendly: Not an apartment-friendly dog the Blue Heeler breed.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Blue Heeler's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Mouthiness: Blue Heeler dogs have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: The wanderlust potential of the Blue Heeler is strong enough to escape from home.
  • Child Friendly: Blue Heeler dogs are not the most kid-friendly dogs.
  • Cat Friendly: Blue Heeler dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Blue Heeler dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Blue Heeler is not the best dog breed for office environment.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Blue Heelers are not the best breed for elderly people.

Blue Heeler History

The Blue Heeler, also known as the Australian Cattle Dog, was bred by 19th-century Australian settlers to herd cattle on large ranches. By quietly but aggressively herding the sometimes unmanageable, almost feral cattle with nips and bites, this breed was essential in helping ranchers establish the Australian beef industry.

Many breedings and cross-breedings have resulted in today's Australian cattle dog. Ranchers wanted a tough canine that could withstand Australia's severe environment and working circumstances. As the dogs brought from England weren't up to the task, they were crossed with the native Dingo. Countless breedings by a variety of ranchers eventually yielded what are thought to be the ancestors of the modern breed. Blue-colored dogs were the most popular among ranchers and drovers, and they were called Blue Heelers. Queensland Heelers or Queensland Blue Heelers were the names given to them because they were particularly popular in cattle runs in Queensland.

Furthermore, a man named Robert Kaleski began breeding Blue Heelers in 1893 and began showing them in 1897. Kaleski created a standard based on the Dingo, claiming that this was the breed that was best suited to the Australian desert. Except for the color, today’s breed is very similar to the Dingo. This standard was adopted by the Kennel Club of New South Wales in 1903. The breed was first known as the Australian Heeler, then later as the Australian Cattle Dog, which is the name now accepted as official throughout Australia and elsewhere. However, some people still call them Blue Heelers or Queensland Heelers.

In 1980, the American Kennel Club designated the breed as a working group member. They were not recognized as a herding breed by the AKC until 1983 when they were brought into the herding group for competitive activities.

Rate The Blue Heeler Breed

Blue Heeler Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Felicia

    Nov 27, 2020, 3:26:11 AM:

    AKS recognized, good with cats and my small children. Love my blue heeler.

  • Australian Blue Heelers owner

    Apr 18, 2020, 6:21:07 AM:

    Extremely loyal