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Why is my blue heeler so aggressive?
Bred to fearlessly herd cattle, the blue heeler needs a strong leader in its pack or it will assume the role of pack leadership. Unchecked, this tendency can develop into dominance and even aggressive behavior toward both other dogs and humans.
Are Blue Heelers considered an aggressive breed?
Blue Heelers can be aggressive during particular circumstances. They are naturally protective and controlling, due to their herding heritage. Some consider them to be the breed that bites the most. While some will be more naturally aggressive than others, this is true for all breeds of dogs.
Do Blue Heelers get attached to one person?
Blue Heelers are extremely affectionate dogs, especially with their owners. As a herding dog, it comes as no surprise to learn that Blue Heelers can develop closer bonds with one person. They can even become attached to that person; following them around everywhere they go.
Will my Blue Heeler ever calm down?
In general, blue heelers will begin to naturally calm down from the age of 4-6 years onwards. As they mature, they gradually become calmer and better behaved. This process can be accelerated with the proper exercise routine and training program.
Do Blue Heelers get jealous?
It is possible to raise a dog-friendly Blue Heeler. You just need to introduce them right from the start so they can become comfortable with each other. However, these dogs are loyal and often devoted to one person the most. ACDs can become jealous if their person tries to cuddle with the other animals.
Are Blue Heelers loyal?
Hard-working, intelligent, and loyal—that’s a Blue Heeler in a nutshell. Historically, these dogs were bred to work on farms as herding dogs and they still thrive when they have a job to do. Their fierce loyalty makes them even better workers.
At what age do Blue Heelers settle down?
Blue Heelers typically calm down at around the age of 4-6 years old. Although you can help your dog to mentally mature through consistent obedience training early on in life and through implementing a regular exercise routine and schedule.
Do Blue Heelers shed a lot?
Australian Cattle Dogs (aka blue or red heelers, Queensland heelers) shed twice a year like all double coated dogs. However, they do have a large amount of undercoat, and if they are utilized in warmer climates, that shedding does tend to occur for long periods of time.
Are red and Blue Heelers the same dog?
Red and blue heelers are color variations of the same breed, the Australian Cattle Dog. They were bred to herd cattle by biting their heels, hence the name heeler. These dogs are very intelligent but the heeling instinct is strong. They will bite running children.
How long does it take a blue heeler to go blind?
Blue Heelers are prone to inherited eye troubles. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) LINK causes slow, painless loss of sight until the dog is completely blind in both eyes. This can take as long as several years or as little as several months.
What kind of personality does a blue heeler have?
Like many herding breeds, the Blue Heeler has a very loyal personality. They can be quite protective of their family and toys, and wary towards strangers. Plenty of early socialization helps to reduce the “wariness” but won’t dispel it altogether.