The true origins of this rare breed are largely unknown, though the ancestry of the Lancashire Heeler is believed to be that of the Welsh Corgi and the Manchester Terrier. Recognised in its home county for over 150 years as an accomplished ratter and cattle herder, the Lancashire Heeler is a prodigiously active breed possessing a natural authority. This derives from its parentage, with early Welsh Corgis utilised in driving livestock from England into Wales. Registered as a rare native breed by the Kennel Club in 2006.
Low to the ground, the Heeler has a disproportionate body, not dissimilar from the pure breed Corgi or Dachshund, possessing short legs, wide-spaced eyes, well-muscled hindquarters and a high-set tail. The breed's coat is typically short and smooth, in colour variations of black and tan, or liver and tan. The inherent herding instinct is still present in the modern Lancashire Heeler, rendering it well suited to dog agility trails, showmanship, obedience, flyball and general livestock herding and retrieving.
Typically affectionate and sweet-natured, the breed enjoys participating in exercise and play, with a quiet perceptiveness and friendly sociability that makes it a great addition to the home setting. Devoted to children and compatible with other domestic animals when introduced gradually, the Lancashire Heeler can be difficult to obedience train so consistent direction from an early age is beneficial. The average Heeler will weigh 3-6 kg, with a life expectancy of 12-15 years when shown appropriate care.
Apart from various eye disorders specific to the breed, including primary lens luxation, persistent pupillary membranes and Collie eye anomaly, the Lancashire Heeler is generally healthy, resilient and long-lived.
Not at the moment but my last 1 which died at 17 god so miss her loyal protetive bit small to do much but god she would not give up good gard dog in the sence if she was size of a gsd then shed be leathle amazing dog 1 be 4 her juust a good in every way died at 15 1 be 4 h lived at home my mum loved them there pensioners now they had 3 all died old they worrie there 2 old n9w so dont wont get 1 then leave it my sister had pup of mine he died at nine to much choclet didnt realise it was bad for dogs they were defostated all family was my exsperiance if u dont want a big dog but want gard loylaty easy to train let u no if sum 1 is hanging aboutalso good with family and kids this is the dog to get not m7ch dog hair cant go wrong with this bread for me anyway ive 2 gsd working security with myself love them the world but yes looking for my littler heeler again great dogs
From Greater Manchester, United Kingdom
I Absolutely love this breed, I grew up with them & bought Mabel 3 years ago after I lost one on my Jack Russells, she is extremely loyal, very cheeky & has been easy to train, she is great with other dogs & loves kids especially babies despite not being brought up around them.