Lancashire Heeler

It is the smallest dog of the pastoral group, they got the name Heelers because they went in a hurry on the heels of the cattle, giving small bites without breaking the skin of this while she led them to the market or gathered in a herd. They also used their hunting instincts to catch rats and rabbits. The Lancashire Heeler is a small dog with a solid build. They are slightly longer than they are tall, and the front legs turn slightly outward. The ears are relatively large and erect.

Coat

The coat is smooth and keeps the dog dry in all weather conditions and may have a small mane around the neck in winter. It is generally black and light brown in color, although the dark brown (liver) hue is already recognized by the Kennel Club.

Lancashire Heeler Temperament

A fearless, playful and affectionate breed, the Lancashire Heeler is a pleasant little dog that gets along well with people and older children. Some can be a bit nervous and a bit intolerant of other dogs. Early socialization with people and other pets is necessary. They are ideal dogs for families with older children, but are not really recommended for households with babies and young children. As with other breeds in the herding group, Lancashire Heelers have strong herding instincts and may try to round up estranged children or other dogs with an accurate nibble on the heels.

Lancashire Heeler Exercise

Even if they are small, they need long daily walks to be happy and healthy. A dog-proof garden is important, if left unattended, as they are very good at escaping, can climb out of the smallest hole, and can climb or jump over a low fence.

Cleanliness

They do not require a lot of grooming time as their hair is rather short and soft. A brushing from time to time is all you need to keep your hair in good condition.

Health

Patellar Luxation

Slipping in the knee joints (also known as a dislocated patella or spilled fluid) is a common problem in small breeds. In this condition, the kneecap slides out of its groove and moves against the thigh bone (femur) rather than in its natural groove. Although it is a hereditary condition, small and active breeds tend to develop it as a result of their natural activities (jumping from one place to another around objects such as furniture and others).

History

Little is known about the origin of this breed. It is printed in many publications that the Lancashire Heeler is a cross between the Manchester Terrier and the Welsh Corgi. It is also known as the Heeler Ormskirk and they have been used as working dogs on farms in the Lancashire area for hundreds of years and, although it is a little known breed, it is still used in farms today.

The Lancashire Heeler was recognized by the British Kennel Club in 1981. The breed was then placed on the Rare Breed Register, it is the smallest of all working and herding breeds.

The year 1999 brought great changes for the breed in the shows as it was transferred to the newly formed Herding Group and was awarded the CC for the first time. Also the Heeler Café (liver and Fire) received approval from the Kennel Club to be included in the breed standard.