Known as the Blue Heeler, or the Australian Cattle Dog, this breed hails from Australia and traces its roots back all the way to the wild dingo. They were bred specifically to drive cattle over long distances and often across rough terrain. They received their “Heeler” nickname due to their common habit of nipping at cattle’s heels to herd them. Show
They are most well-known in the US by their Blue Heeler or Australian Cattle Dog names, but they are also sometimes called Australian Heeler, Queensland Heeler, and Halls Heeler. The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the Australian Cattle Dog in 1980. Since they were bred to be a working dog, they tend to have a lot of energy and need plenty of exercise to be happy. Sometimes called a “velcro” dog, the Blue Heeler gets close to his owner and family quickly, but will bond with one individual much more than any other.
Blue Heelers are exceedingly affectionate with their human families – and other pets for that matter. They are brave, loyal, and friendly to those they know. When it comes to strangers, however, this breed should be watched carefully. They are also generally better-suited to families with older children. Australian Cattle Dogs are very protective of their packs, and they will become defensive. Because of their protective nature, they make excellent protection or guard dogs. This can typically be dealt with early on through training and proper socialization. It’s important to give them a job or purpose in order for them to be happy. Like most dogs bred for cattle herding, the Blue Heeler doesn’t do well in apartment dwellings and likely isn’t a good fit for first time dog owners. This dog breed needs its space. They do tend to be hardy dogs, however, and are able to thrive in most other environments – regardless of heat or cold. One of the best aspects of the Blue Heeler is their health. They have very few, if any, specific diseases to the breed outside of issues that all dog breeds face. Deafness from birth is more common in the Blue Heeler than in most breeds. However, it doesn’t affect the pup’s quality of life in most cases. For owners, Blue Heelers are one of the most loving and attentive breeds out there. Because of their herding dog mentality, they can engage in barking regularly and have a high prey drive. Luckily, they are also one of the easiest breeds to train due to their hard-working nature and tireless efforts, allowing many of these issues to be taken care of if addressed as puppies. They do become easily bored with repetition, so it’s important to keep them learning new things throughout their lives. An Australian Cattle Dog’s coat is short, smooth, and water-resistant. Their coat colors are red, blue, and blue-speckled. When the coat is red, they are sometimes referred to as a “Red Heeler”. With fairly short fur, the Blue Heeler has an average amount of shedding with a couple of heavier seasonal shedding events. You won’t need to vacuum every day, but some upkeep is required. Their coat is very easy to take care of in general and can be kept clean with regular weekly brushing and the occasional bath. Blue Heelers have a very high energy level and need to be exercised every day. When they don’t get enough energy out, they tend to get up to mischief; such as digging in unwanted places. This dog breed should be walked, run, or played with each day. Alternately, they should be given plenty of space to do so on their own. They need frequent exercise, so it never hurts to give them some space to run. Blue Heelers are mid-sized herding dogs. They get to be about 17 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder. Females tend to range between 17 and 19 inches tall while the males range from 18 to 20 inches. They also tend to range between 30 to 50 pounds. Males tend to average between 35 and 50 pounds while females tend to average between 30 and 35 pounds. This dog breed has a longer life span of about 12 to 16 years. Although some working dogs in the United States have docked tails, the Australian Cattle Dog usually has an undocked tail. There is a distinctly separate dog breed that looks similar to the Blue Heeler and is usually born without a long tail. It is called the Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog. You probably know plenty of herding dogs – German Shepherds, Border Collies, and Australian Shepherds to name a few. But have you heard of the Mini Blue Heeler? This dog breed is the miniature version of the regular Blue Heelers. While Mini Blue Heelers may be small, don’t let their compact size fool you. They’re just as hard-working and energetic as a standard Blue Heeler. In this guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the Mini Blue Heeler, including their physical appearance, coat color, size, health issues, temperament, and grooming needs to find out if this is the dog for you. Scroll to the bottom of this guide to find a few places that have Mini Blue Heeler puppies for sale.
What is a Mini Blue Heeler?Small Blue Heeler dog smiling and having funThere’s a dedicated fanbase for smaller-than-usual canines that have been proliferating in recent years. These pet owners like their pups tiny and love it when there’s a miniature version of a medium or large pooch. The Mini Blue Heeleris one of those canines. It’s ok if you’ve never heard of the Mini Blue Heeler dog before. After reading this article, you’ll know whatever there is to know about this beautiful breed. So, let’s get started with some basic information. Mini Blue Heeler puppy enjoying the snow and winter seasonMini Blue Heelers are an offshoot of the Blue Heeler or the Australian Cattle Dog. They’re called “Heelers” for the way they bite at the heels of stubborn cows to get them to move, whereas “Blue” refers to their signature coat color.
A 19th-century farmer named Thomas Hall from New South Wales, Australia came up with this breed. Hall mixed his pet Dingoes with Dalmatians and local cattle dogs. With this, he developed the perfect cattle herding breed for the rough and arid terrains of the Australian outback. Fast-forward to modern times, and we have Mini Blue Heelers popping up everywhere. This mini Australian cattle dog carries all the traits of the regular Blue Heelers in a compact package. Mini Blue Heelers go by several other names, including miniature Australian cattle dog, teacup Australian cattle dog, Mini Queensland Heeler, mini ACD, and teacup Blue Heeler. Breeders are usually secretive about their breeding methods, but Mini Blue Heelers can be bred by one of the following methods:
The Blue Heeler took a long time to achieve AKC recognition, and the Mini Blue Heeler is a relatively new breed. As of right now, the AKC does not recognize them. You might be interested in: Blue Heeler Chihuahua Mix – Complete Guide Mini Blue Heeler vs standardThe Mini Blue Heeler can have some unique characteristics depending on the breeding method used. However, they’re usually pretty similar to their larger counterparts. Here’s how they compare. Similarities between Mini Blue Heeler and standard Blue Heeler
Differences between Mini Blue Heeler and standard Blue Heeler
Mini Blue Heeler physical appearanceAlthough the breed’s official name is the Australian Cattle Dog, their remarkable blue coats have given them the moniker of Blue Heeler. The mini version carries many of the same physical qualities as the standard Blue Heeler, including the solid build and focused stance. Other Mini Blue Heeler traits include:
Mini Blue Heeler size and heightThe Miniature Blue Heeler size is the most prominent aspect that sets him apart from the regular Blue Heeler. The AKC states that the Blue Heeler’s height is anywhere between 17 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders, whereas the teacup / Mini Blue Heeler is 2 to 9 inches shorter. If you have a Blue Heeler that isn’t growing to the usual size, and you’re wondering, “why is my Blue Heeler so small?” then there’s a chance that you may have a mini/teacup/toy Blue Heeler. Here is a table to give you a good idea of their height. Blue Heeler Height
Mini Blue Heeler weightThe Mini Blue Heeler is noticeably shorter and lighter than the standard Blue Heeler. Here is a weight chart to help you understand how the two sizes differ. Blue Heeler Weight
Mini Blue Heeler coat colorsMini Blue Heelers come in only selected coat colors. The Australian breeders who produced them intentionally went for shades that separated them from the pesky feral Dingoes. As their name implies, Mini Blue Heelers come in blue coats with spots or dots of a darker color. Other colors on Mini Blue Heelers are black, red, and tan; these are present as markings. Mini Blue Heeler temperament and personalityThe Miniature Blue Heeler can inherit the qualities of regular Blue Heelers. They’re intelligent and hardworking dogs who need a job to keep them busy. Mini Blue Heelers will sometimes test their cattle-herding skills on people—a habit that you need to get rid of as soon as you bring your pup home. If your Mini Blue Heeler is nipping or biting at your heels, you need to discourage him gently. This tiny dog breed is somewhat independent and isn’t that interested in sitting on your lap. Their high energy makes them prefer playing, running, or exercising over cuddling. They are still affectionate; they just have a different way of showing it. A well-trained Mini Blue Heeler is a sober and attentive canine. They’re pretty quiet and won’t bother your neighbors with their barking. Their intelligence and alertness also make them excellent guard dogs. Are Mini Blue Heelers good family dogs?When bringing a puppy home, you should consider how he will adapt to your lifestyle. If you have a family with young and energetic kids, you should go for a patient, sturdy, tolerant, and non-aggressive breed. Regular Blue Heelers are notorious for their tendency to bite at the heels. A Mini Blue Heeler may also carry the same habit; however, you can get rid of it through training. They’re very energetic and will have no problem playing with your children all day. Why get a Mini Blue Heeler?Mini Blue Heelers are not for everyone, but that doesn’t mean they don’t make good pets. While they aren’t lapdogs, they’re fun to play with. You can take your Mini Blue Heeler jogging, cycling, or for a frisbee game on the beach. The Mini Blue Heeler will make an awesome pet if you have energetic kids. Mini Blue Heelers are also excellent workers. Their smaller bodies don’t hinder their ability to learn commands and carry out tasks. Mini Blue Heeler working qualitiesThe Blue Heeler is an excellent working breed known for its stamina, energy, intelligence, and agility. Since Mini Blue Heelers are similar to their larger counterparts in many ways, they are well-suited to hard work. Although the Miniature Blue Heeler is known for being a companion dog, he will perform his job just as well as the Blue Heeler. Mini Blue Heeler trainingTraining herding breeds usually takes less time and effort; this is also true for Mini Blue Heelers. These pups respond well to training and appreciate the mental stimulation it brings. Their intelligence helps them learn commands quickly and retain them longer. Training also helps eliminate certain annoying habits, like biting at people’s heels or ankles. Mini Blue Heeler exercise requirementThe vast herding routes that the Australian Cattle Dog (ACD) frequented made it necessary to have excellent stamina. The Miniature Blue Heeler also inherits his herding ancestors’ high energy and stamina. Thankfully, their shorter frame means they don’t have the similar living space requirement as their regular versions. These pups will do well in smaller homes or apartments. High-energy pups require more activity than other dogs, and you’ll have to drain the energy reserves of your Mini Blue Heeler every day. Failing to get rid of their excess energy would lead to frustration and can easily lead to destructive behavior. Mini Blue Heeler grooming and cleaningWhile the Mini Blue Heeler may have additional physical needs, grooming them requires little effort on your part. These canines shed minimally, and you only have to care for their falling fur before and after winter. Mini Blue Heelers do well with a weekly brushing session. Since they’re not that big, you have less area to work on. You may have to increase the brushing frequency to at least twice a week during heavy shedding seasons. You don’t need to bathe your Mini Blue Heeler too often. Wash them every few months or when they start to stink. They don’t produce much odor, so using a damp warm towel on them every week keeps them clean. If you do need to bathe them when they’re dirty from playing outside, be sure to use dog-friendly shampoos that will keep their hair and skin healthy and moisturized. If you’re giving your Mini Blue Heelers enough physical activity, they won’t need their claws trimmed. Frequent running will naturally file the nails down, but you’ll still have to monitor their growth. Brushing your Mini Blue Heeler’s teeth and cleaning his ears should be a regular thing. Is the Mini Blue Heeler hypoallergenic?Despite being a low-shedding and low-drooling pooch, the Mini Blue Heeler isn’t hypoallergenic. They shed moderately all year round and slightly more during the fall and spring seasons. Their fur is fine so dander or tiny bits of dead skin will likely fall and float in the air, which can irritate people with canine allergies. Mini Blue Heeler food and dietThe Miniature Blue Heeler requires a high-quality diet to maintain his high-energy lifestyle. These pups need more sustenance than other canines their size, and you shouldn’t fear them getting overweight as long as you give them enough exercise. While an all-natural diet will work best for your pup, you can skip the hassle and buy a prepared meal from the store. Make sure to go for a brand that suits the energetic lifestyle of your Mini Blue Heeler. If you’re not sure, we highly recommend that you consult with your vet on the right doggy food brand for this pup. You may also like: Can Dogs Eat Brussel Sprouts? The Good and the Gas! Mini Blue Heeler common health issuesPedigree Blue Heelers suffer from several congenital issues, mainly brought on by inbreeding to keep the lineage pure. However, Mini Blue Heelers can be purebred or crossed with another breed. A crossbred pooch is usually healthier than his parents, but that doesn’t mean he is immune to all the health concerns. Here are five common medical issues to watch out for. 1. Blindness Mini Blue Heelers often come down with dysfunctions that affect their eyesight. Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is one such disease. It slowly worsens the pup’s eyesight until the eyes no longer function. 2. Deafness Blue Heelers can sometimes be partially or completely deaf. Deafness is one of the health issues Mini Blue Heelers share with regular Blue Heelers. 3. Pituitary dwarfism Some breeders try producing Miniature Blue Heelers by selectively breeding pups with pituitary dwarfism. Although this results in smaller pooches, they have numerous disorders, including poorly developed organs, disproportionate body, lower intelligence, and a shorter lifespan. 4. Hip dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a frequently occurring dysfunction in the canine world. The affected pooch has difficulty jumping and running. This condition degenerates with time and can result in paralysis. 5. Patellar luxation Patellar luxation is when the pup’s kneecaps pop out of their sockets. Patellar luxation can happen when the pooch puts stress on his joints. It can be painful at times, but it’s a minor discomfort in most instances. Mini Blue Heeler lifespanThe lifespan of a Miniature Blue Heeler is similar to that of a regular Blue Heeler; you can expect them to live for up to 10 to 15 years. The lifespan also depends on your pup’s individual health and lifestyle, and it can decrease if your pooch has some medical condition. Miniature Blue Heeler rescueAdoption is always a noble option. It provides a home for a pooch hungry for love. Rescue pets are highly loyal, as they understand the feeling of not having an owner. If you’re looking for Mini Blue Heelers, rescues and adoption centers are an excellent place to start. Mini Blue Heeler breedersIf you want to look for Miniature Blue Heeler breeders, there are various online sources to check. Although not every online breeder may run a reputable business, you can minimize your chances of getting scammed by asking questions and visiting the facility in person. Make sure to go with breeders who provide health guarantees even if they demand a higher price. Mini Blue Heeler puppiesMiniature Blue Heeler puppies seem noticeably smaller than regular ACD pups. Breeders produce them by mixing standard Blue Heelers with a shorter breed or by selectively breeding two smaller-than-normal ACDs. Some breeders also make them by breeding runts. Runts are the smallest puppies of a litter. They’re not always healthy, but careful upbringing can help them live full lives. Breeding a runt with another runt results in smaller pups. Miniature Blue Heeler priceMini Blue Heelers don’t cost a fortune, and you can get one for as low as $300 if you’re lucky. However, their price may be higher depending on where you live. Some pedigree pups can cost as high as $3,500. Mini Blue Heeler for saleA reputable breeder would never advertise having a teacup Blue Heeler for sale. Teacup is a controversial term that creates appeal for a pup with inferior health. You may find some responsible and well-known breeders selling Mini Blue Heelers if you look up “Mini Blue Heeler for sale near me.” However, their focus is on producing a healthy fur buddy. They would never compromise a pup’s health by making them smaller just for profit. Mini Blue Heeler puppies for saleIt’s easy to find numerous results if you look up “Miniature Blue Heeler puppies for sale near me.” However, not all of them would be legitimate breeders. Avoid puppy mills and scams by personally visiting the facility you’ve seen online. We have listed some popular Mini Blue Heeler breeders below. If you happen to be in one of these areas and are looking for a Miniature Blue Heeler, do check them out. Mini Blue Heeler puppies for sale in TennesseeCheck out DC Mini Blue Heelers on Facebook. They are located in South-West Tennessee and breed Mini Blue Heelers of the highest standards. Mini Blue Heeler puppies for sale OregonIf you’re looking for Mini Blue Heeler puppies Oregon breeders,do check out Rightway Ranch. Unlike some breeders, they don’t use runts or dwarf ACDs to make Mini Blue Heelers. You can be sure their pups are healthy. Mini Blue Heeler puppies for sale in IdahoHooDoo Valley Breeders sell healthy Mini Blue Heeler pups. They pride themselves on their strict testing policies and ensure their pups are outstanding in every way. Miniature Blue Heeler puppies for sale in TexasTexas Heeler has standard and miniature ACD puppies in striking coat colors. Mini Blue Heeler puppies for sale in ArkansasYou can find lovely corgis and Mini Blue Heelers at Blue Heeler and Corgi Lover. They also provide health guarantees for their pups. Mini Blue Heeler puppies for sale in Birmingham, ALHerding Pups breed their own puppies and also sell puppies that grow at nearby farms. Mini Blue Heeler puppies for sale in IowaRocky Top Heelers are licensed breeders of the ACD who pride themselves in raising healthy and well-behaved Heelers. Mini Blue Heeler puppies for sale in MissouriYou can get some healthy Mini Blue Heelers at Griffin Farms in Missouri. Mini Blue Heeler puppies for sale in NCCedar Grove Farms have some lovely Blue Heeler puppies available. You can check if they have some in miniature size. Mini Blue Heeler puppies WashingtonIf you are looking for Mini Blue Heeler puppies for sale in Washington, you may check with Back Country Cattle Dogs to see if they have any available. Mini Blue Heeler puppies MontanaBroken Tail Ranch is a family-owned business that sells lovely ACD puppies in Montana. Miniature Blue Heeler puppies for sale in CaliforniaYou can try checking out Blue Red Joe’s Australian Cattle Dogs to see if they have any mini ACDs available. Is the Mini Blue Heeler right for me?The Mini Blue Heeler is an agile, intelligent, hardworking, and energetic canine. If you have an active lifestyle and can give your Mini Blue Heeler the physical and mental stimulation he needs, then you’ll find him to be an ideal companion. However, if you’d prefer a fur buddy that likes to cuddle, sit on your lap, and lounge with you, the Mini Blue Heeler may not be the dog for you. DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE Resources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_Cattle_Dog https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6055913/ I’m a pet lover who has years of pet sitting and grooming experience. I thought it would be a great idea to share my experience with all pet owners so they can also keep their canine companions healthy, happy, and clean! How much do Mini Blue Heelers cost?Mini Blue Heelers don't cost a fortune, and you can get one for as low as $300 if you're lucky. However, their price may be higher depending on where you live. Some pedigree pups can cost as high as $3,500.
Is there such a thing as a miniature Blue Heeler?Mini Blue Heelers stand at 11-15 inches and weigh only 12-25 pounds. Standard Heelers are about double the size at 17-20 inches and 35-50 pounds.
How do you get a mini Blue Heeler?Crossbreeding produces puppies of different sizes and appearances. This is how our Mini Blue Heeler was created. Usually, this particular mix comes from the Aussie Cattle Dog and another smaller breed, for example, the Chihuahua.
Do mini Blue Heelers shed?Blue Heelers will shed moderately year-round but experience coat blowing at least twice a year. Though they aren't great dogs for allergy-sensitive owners, there are ways to help minimize the shedding. Grooming the coat of your Blue Heeler is absolutely necessary to keep their shedding in check.
|