Australian Shepherd Blue Heeler Mix Gentle Kind Smart
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The Australian Shepherd Blue Heeler Mix is a mixed breed dog from the breeding of the Australian Shepherd and the Blue Heeler. It is sometimes called Texas Heeler or Queensland Heeler Australian Shepherd Mix. The Australian Shepherd Blue Heeler Mix is one of the most gentle and kindest as well as one of the smartest dogs you will ever find.
History Of The Australian Shepherd Blue Heeler Mix
All hybrid or designer dogs are hard to read because they don't have a lot of history. The breeding of specific dogs like this has become common over the past twenty years, although this mixed breed has found his share of dogs at the shelter due to accidental breeding. We'll take a closer look at the history of the two parent breeds below.
History
Despite having 'Australian' in their name, this does not refer to having this nationality directly; on the contrary, he was adopted much later. His origin dates back to the 19th century when using boat dogs left Spain and the United States to other territories without any specific direction.
This breed was one of those that sailed through several oceans until they reached Australia to dedicate themselves to herding herds and cattle since they had little of this ability. Still, with time, humans entered them and became specialists in performing that function.
Once, when the Second World War had passed, these dogs were highly demanded in North America to work as shepherds, and due to the fact of having been raised in Australian lands, the nickname or the new nationality that adopted them.
This name currently recognizes them; therefore, their origin is associated with Australia, but we already know that they are not native. You can see him a lot in European countries, especially the United States.
Characteristic
Like any dog, the Australian Shepherd has very noticeable physical characteristics at first glance, and we will detail a little about each of them below.
- Hefty body: A very remarkable aspect is his body; he has a robust shape, although he is much longer than he is tall. He is included in the list of tall dog breeds since his size when they become adults ranges between about 55 and 70 centimeters, where the males have a much higher height than the females. Similarly, the ideal weight it reaches varies between 25kg and 45kg. These specifications that we have mentioned make the dog have good muscle mass, and are also motivated by the amount of physical activity they do during the day, which makes them excellent shepherds. They are not usually obese or overweight, so their physique will remain the same practice all the time.
- Nose: The nose in them can be of two main colors dark red (blood or liver type) when the fur is also reddish, while it is black for the other shades in its hair. For his part, the eyes have an almond shape that characterizes them with amber, blue or brown color; there could even be a mixture between the three colors.
- Triangular ears: It should be noted that Australian Shepherds have a peculiarity because their ears have a triangle shape that differentiates them as such. These are of a high insertion, quite a lot of hair covers them, they are flexible (not so erect) and medium size.
- Medium hair: As for his fur, we can deduce that he is of medium size in his entirety; although it is made up of two layers, one smaller than the other. This means that they can be preserved in climates with low temperatures and even in the cold winter.
For his part, the most predominant colors are blue and blackbird red, as well as black and white. In some dogs of the breed, spots that have these colors are observed.
History And Characteristics of The Blue Heeler
History
The Blue Heeler came about due to his tendency to nip at the heels of cattle to encourage the direction of movement while being herded. They were bred to herd cattle over long distances, and particular traits such as their high energy levels and stamina to cope with the rugged terrain and high temperatures of the Australian outback were desired.
This background makes them very energetic and playful dogs with high intelligence. You'll want to ensure you have enough time to spend with your Blue Heeler outside, although he also does well as a pet rather than a working dog when properly trained and socialized.
There are two different types of Blue Heelers: The Original Cattle Dog, from New South Wales, and The Queensland Heelers, a 1940s variant. Both are now known as Heelers.
The Blue Heeler was initially bred with his cattle in Australia in the 19th century. The settlers who lived there needed a dog that could herd and herd cattle in very hot conditions and that could also withstand the rugged terrain and run long distances.
Thomas Hall is responsible for the creation of the Blue Heeler. He crossed the Collie with the Australian Dingo creating the Halls Heeler, which is believed to be one of the ancestors of the Australian Cattle Dog due to his appearance.
The Halls Heeler was crossed with Dalmatians, Bull Terriers, and Kelpies to create the Heeler. The Heeler was well-established around 1890.
The Blue Heeler was first introduced to the United States in the 1940s and was registered by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1980. The Australian Cattle Dog Club of America is the official breed club in the United States.
Characteristics
Often you may hear of the Blue Heeler, known as the Queensland Heeler or Red Heeler.
The Blue Heeler is a medium-sized breed, typically 17 to 20 inches tall, with males a few inches taller than females. Their weight can range from 35 to 50 pounds for both men and women. They will generally reach their full size and weight around 18.
Blue Heelers are athletic and muscular, with broad heads and powerful jaws. Their ears are set wide apart on top of their head, much like a German Shepherd's ears, and they have sloping shoulders with a level back on top of solid front legs and muscular hind legs.
It is pretty common for their tails to be docked if they are working dogs in the US, however, in the UK and Australia, and Canada, they are kept to their full length to help with maneuverability.
- Coat: Blue Heelers' coats are usually short and are double coats that can be strong and stiff. They shed excessively twice a year instead of shedding moderately throughout the year. He is a relatively low-maintenance dog and does not require a lot of grooming, although we will go into more detail on that later.
- Color: The Blue Heeler is most likely blue, blue speckled, or blue speckled in color and may or may not have markings. Their front legs may also have a tan color, sometimes seen on their chest and neck. Fun fact: Red and Blue Heeler puppies are born white, and their adult coat color grows as they develop and mature.
Weight | Height | Lifespan | |
Australian Shepherd | 35 - 75 lbs. | 18 - 23 inches at the shoulder | 13-15 years |
Blue Heeler | 31 - 35 lbs. | 17 - 20 inches at the shoulder | 13 - 15 years |
Temperament Of The Australian Shepherd Blue Heeler Mix
The Australian Shepherd Blue Heeler Mix is going to be an adorable and good-natured dog. They will be a great companion and sidekick to have by your side. This is the type of dog you will want to come home to at night because he is very kind, loyal, and gentle. Whatever Australian Shepherd Blue Heeler Mix, they'll bounce back with energy and won't be good for apartment dwellers. They will not be suitable for people with low energy. They will have to take long walks and hikes EVERY DAY to exhaust them.
It is also extremely important to socialize with your dog. Although they naturally have an excellent temperament, socialization is essential to help them learn how to interact with other dogs. They can also have a fairly high prey drive due to their willingness to chase small, fast things. Therefore, it will be a good idea to keep an eye on the cat or any other small creature until you understand its personality better.
Health Of The Australian Shepherd Blue Heeler Mix
All dogs have the potential to develop genetic health issues because all breeds are more susceptible to certain things than others. However, the one good thing about having a puppy is that you can avoid it as much as possible. A breeder must offer a health guarantee on the puppies. If they don't, look no further and don't consider this breeder at all. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about breed health issues and the incidents they occur. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested and cleared of a particular condition.
Mixed with Australian Shepherd, he could be prone to Epilepsy, Deafness, OCD, Eye Problems, Hypothyroidism, Sensitivity to Drugs, Cancer, Joint Dysplasia, Allergies, Collie Nose.
Note that these are just common issues in both breeds.
What Are The Grooming Requirements Of Australian Shepherd Blue Heeler Mix ?
Both the Australian Shepherd and the Blue Heeler are fairly moderate shedders. The Blue Heeler shouldn't lose as much as the Aussie, so the Australian Shepherd Blue Heeler Mix.
Products For Australian Shepherd Blue Heeler Mix
What Are The Exercise Requirements Of Australian Shepherd Blue Heeler Mix?
Australian Shepherd Blue Heeler Mix is a high-energy dog that will need this from an owner. Like I said before, they were bred to work and run around all day, so they won't just hang around. Plan to take them on very long walks and hikes to keep their energy levels low. Don't be surprised if he starts herding you because the Australian Shepherd has a powerful herding instinct. A tired dog is a good dog. Never tie your dog outside - it's inhumane and unfair to him.
What Are The Training Requirements of Australian Shepherd Blue Heeler Mix?
Australian Shepherd Blue Heeler Mix is an extremely intelligent dog who will be easy to train; however, he can be extremely stubborn. He will need a robust and firm handler who is consistent and won't let this dog take advantage of him. All dogs respond best to positive reinforcement. So be sure to praise her when she's doing well. She is an intelligent dog who likes to please and loves physical challenges. The more she exercises, the easier she will be to train. Be sure to take him to the park and dog daycare so he can be around as many people and dogs as possible.
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