Lancashire Heeler

Grooming Tips

The Lancashire Heeler is a breed that can go from the field to the show ring. Their short, hard, flat coat is dense and waterproof, needing very little grooming.A light brushing and occasional bath will keep your Heeler happy and clean.The nails should be trimmed, if needed, with a nail clipper or grinder to avoid overgrowth, splitting, and cracking.Ears should be checked regularly to avoid a buildup of wax and debris, which can result in infection. Teeth should be brushed regularly.

Exercise Tips

The Lancashire Heeler likes to exercise, human interaction, and mental stimulation. They can be demanding of your attention or somewhat laid back, but are always eager to play or just be by your side.Options for exercise include playtime in the backyard, preferably fenced, or being taken for walks several times a day. Exercise can also come in the form of indoor activities, like hide-and-seek, chasing a ball rolled along the floor, or learning new tricks.Certain outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and retrieving balls or flying discs can provide a good outlet for expending energy. If you live in an apartment, even short walks in the hallways can give your dog some exercise, especially during inclement weather.Training for dog sports like agility, obedience, and rally can also be a great way to give your dog exercise.

Feeding Tips

As a small-breed dog, the Lancashire Heeler should be fed a high-quality dry food formulated for small breeds. The Lancashire is also an energetic and active breed, he may do well on an active or working breed formula – particularly if he is used for herding.Any diet should be appropriate to the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to gettingoverweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level.Treatscan be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Learn about whichhuman foodsare safe for dogs, and which are not.Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet.Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.

Health Tips

The Lancashire Heeler is a healthy breed in general, though all dogs are prone to some health problems. This breed is prone to three eye problems in particular – primary lens luxation, Collie eye anomaly, and persistent papillary membrane. As a small-breed dog, this breed may also experience musculoskeletal issues from time to time.

Trainability

The Lancashire Heeler is an intelligent breed that was developed for herding, so he is capable of acting independently. While this trait is valuable in a herding breed, it can lead to some challenges.The Lancashire does tend to be a bit stubborn or willful at times, so it is a breed best for experienced dog owners. The best form of training for this breed is positive reinforcement training and you need to be firm and consistent.This dog also requires plenty of socialization from a young age if he is to be kept in a home with other pets.

It is generally accepted that the Lancashire Heeler, which originated in Great Britain, is descended from a cross between theWelsh Corgiand a small black and tan terrier type dog.They were used as a general purpose farm dog, useful for both cattle driving and ratting. Due mainly to the interest and record-keeping of a breeder named Gwen Macintosh, the breed was recognized by The Kennel Club in 1981.Their popularity has spread to a number of other countries, including the U.S. The Lancashire Heeler was recognized by the United Kennel Club November 1, 2009.