History of the Blue Heeler

The blue heeler was initially bred in Australia. They were usually used as cattle dogs, to guide groups of cattle across long distances. The reason they were used as cattle dogs is because they are very smart, and also well behaved. They are a very receptive breed that can easily be trained. The Blue Heeler was first brought to the United States in the 1930s, and have been a popular breed ever since. 

On average, a blue heeler will live to around 13 years of age. Many people wonder if a blue heeler can be a family dog. Some people are skeptical because blue heelers are primarily working dogs. Additionally, some people are worried about biting, because blue heelers some time nibble at the legs of cattle that are wandering off from the path.

Can a Blue Heeler Be a Family Dog?

Yes, a Blue Heeler can certainly be a family dog. As we mentioned above, they are very intelligent dogs and form tight attachments to their owners. They are extremely receptive to obedience training, so if they are trained correctly, they can be the perfect family dog. It is best for a Blue Heeler to become a family dog at a young age, when it is more open to meeting and socializing with strangers. Blue Heeler dogs are very active, so it is important that you exercise with them frequently. They are also great dogs for learning tricks. A lot of people use Blue Heelers as guard dogs, because of their protective nature. 

Caring for a Blue Heeler Dog

Caring for a Blue Heeler dog does not require too much work. The most amount of work will be to provide enough exercise for the dog. It is perfect if you can take the dog on runs. If not, we recommend letting your dog roam in a big open space. As a natural working dog, the Blue Heeler also loves to be involved in tasks. We recommend teaching your dog to go get the newspaper every morning or something similar. The Blue Heeler is also the perfect dog for playing catch, as they can play forever. 

Grooming a Blue Heeler dog is very easy, because they have a short, thin fur that does not get dirty easily. You just need to give them the occasional bath and brush and they will be fine. 

How much does a Blue Heeler Cost?

On average, a Blue Heeler typically costs around $500. However, Blue Heelers that are bred for show or competition can cost anywhere from $2000 to $5000.