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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
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Blue Heeler known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
Australian Cattle DogCattle DogQueensland HeelerRed Heeler
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Blue Heeler? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Purebred

Blue Heeler Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Blue Heeler? Learn how big the Blue Heeler breed typically grows.
Medium
Weight Statistics
How much does a Blue Heeler weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Blue Heeler breed.
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 Range
How much does a Blue Heeler puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Blue Heeler costs.
$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

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Blue Heeler? Discover the Blue Heeler's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
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.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Blue Heeler? Learn about the Blue Heeler's trainability and response to training methods.
Blue Heeler dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Blue Heeler as a watchdog? Learn about the Blue Heeler's alertness and guarding instincts.
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.
Territorial Protection
Is a Blue Heeler protective of its territory? Learn about the Blue Heeler's guarding instincts and behavior.
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

Personality Traits
What personality does a Blue Heeler have? Learn about characteristic Blue Heeler temperament and behavior traits.
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

Barking Frequency
Does a Blue Heeler bark a lot? Learn about typical Blue Heeler vocalization patterns and triggers.
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.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Blue Heeler? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Blue Heeler breed.
The Blue Heeler is a highly playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Blue Heeler live in an apartment? Learn about the Blue Heeler's suitability for apartment living.
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

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Blue Heeler to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Blue Heeler's flexibility to new situations.
Average: Blue Heeler dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Blue Heeler be left alone? Learn about the Blue Heeler's tolerance to solitude.
Blue Heeler dogs handle alone time quite well. They are not prone to have separation anxiety.

Blue Heeler Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Blue Heeler biting potential? Learn about the Blue Heeler's bite risk factors.

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.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Blue Heeler mouthy? Learn about the Blue Heeler's tendency to use mouth during play.
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.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Blue Heeler bite? Learn about the Blue Heeler's bite force measured in PSI.

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.

Blue Heeler Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Blue Heeler live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Blue Heeler breed.
11-15 years
The average lifespan of Blue Heeler: 13 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Blue Heeler handle different weather? Learn about the Blue Heeler's climate adaptability.
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.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Blue Heeler? Discover typical conditions affecting the Blue Heeler breed.
Blue Heelers are commonly healthy dogs. Vet costs aren't expensive with this breed.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Blue Heeler need vet visits? Learn about the Blue Heeler's veterinary care requirements.
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.

Blue Heeler Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Blue Heeler? Understand daily activity needs of the Blue Heeler breed.
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

Obesity Tendency
Is a Blue Heeler prone to weight gain? Learn about the Blue Heeler's obesity risks.
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.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Blue Heeler need daily? Learn about the Blue Heeler's feeding requirements.
1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Blue Heeler Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Blue Heeler hypoallergenic? Learn about the Blue Heeler's suitability for allergy sufferers.
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.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Blue Heeler come in? Discover all possible Blue Heeler color variations.
Blue Red speckledBlue speckledBlue MottledRed Mottled
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Blue Heeler need? Learn about Blue Heeler coat maintenance requirements.
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.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Blue Heeler drool a lot? Learn about the Blue Heeler's drooling habits.
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.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Blue Heeler smell bad? Learn about the Blue Heeler's natural odor levels.

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.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Blue Heeler have? Learn about the Blue Heeler's fur characteristics.
Dense
Bathing Needs
How often does a Blue Heeler need baths? Learn about the Blue Heeler's bathing requirements.
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.

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.

Blue Heeler Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Blue Heeler good with children? Learn about the Blue Heeler's behavior around kids of different ages.
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.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Blue Heeler get along with other pets? Discover the Blue Heeler's compatibility with other animals.
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.
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 Capability
Can a Blue Heeler be a service dog? Learn about the Blue Heeler's service work potential.

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 Work Suitability
Is a Blue Heeler good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Blue Heeler's therapy work aptitude.

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.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Blue Heeler good at detection work? Learn about the Blue Heeler's scenting abilities.

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 & Rescue Potential
Can a Blue Heeler do search and rescue? Learn about the Blue Heeler's SAR capabilities.

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.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Blue Heeler good on boats? Learn about the Blue Heeler's maritime capabilities.

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.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Blue Heeler pull carts? Learn about the Blue Heeler's drafting abilities.

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.

Military Service Background
Was a Blue Heeler used in military service? Learn about the Blue Heeler's military history.

Not really

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

Blue Heeler Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Blue Heeler usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
1-7 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Blue Heeler pregnant? Learn about the Blue Heeler's gestation period.

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.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Blue Heeler have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

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.

Blue Heeler Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Blue Heeler in? Learn about the Blue Heeler's AKC classification.
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Blue Heeler in? Learn about the Blue Heeler's international classification.
Not recognized by FCI.

Blue Heeler Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligence Rating: Smart: The Blue Heeler dogs have great intelligence.
  • Training Difficulty: Blue Heeler dogs are easy to train.
  • Health Concerns: Blue Heelers are commonly healthy dogs.
  • Grooming Requirements: Effortless: The Blue Heeler requires minimal grooming.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Blue Heeler is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Watchdog Rating: Blue Heeler dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Alone Time Tolerance: 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
  • Allergy Friendliness: Blue Heeler dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Adaptability: Not an apartment-friendly dog the Blue Heeler breed.
  • Obesity Tendency: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Blue Heeler's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Mouthing Tendency: 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 Compatibility: 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