Lancashire Heeler
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Telpoolwyn Desert Storm Photo with thanks to Lena Siversson, www.mongrelskennel.com
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Lancashire Heeler
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Lancashire Heeler
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Group Pastoral Dogs (KC)
Origin /
History The Lancashire heeler is named after a village in North Wales, Lancashire, from which it originated in the mid-1600s. It is one of a number of breeds developed for herding and droving sheep, as well as cattle, turkeys, goats, and geese. The Lancashire heeler helped by gently nipping at the animals’ heels, urging them along the rough tracks that led from the North Midlands all the way to Yorkshire.
Its closest predecessor is the Welsh sheepdog, known at the time as “curs,” although today it is largely considered a cross between the Welsh Corgi and the Manchester terrier. Modern-day Lancashire heelers evolved from the town of Ormskirk, when some of the dogs strayed and got left behind. The first ones were used by butchers to for heavy transport, and locals eventually took it up for herding, rabbiting, and general farm work.
Appearance Lancashire heelers grow about 10-12 inches and weigh from 6 to 13 pounds. They have short, stumpy legs and an elongated body set low to the ground . The coat is harsh but smooth, which works to keep them warm and dry throughout the year. A delicate mane sometimes appears visible around the dog’s neck in winter, providing additional warmth. The first Lancashires had pricked ears, although tip-eared dogs are also acceptable
Colours Most Lancashire heelers are black with tan markings on the legs, ears, chin, and tail. Liver and tan coats are also acceptable, but are rarer and more expensive.
Temperament Lancashire heelers are highly alert and energetic and are generally good with children, making them ideal family pets. They may be shy of strangers at first, but are very playful and friendly with people they know. The heelers’ natural intelligence, strength, and instinct also make them excellent hunting dogs. They tend to nip at people’s heels because of their herding ancestry, but they can easily be trained to stop.
Height and
Weight They are 25 - 30 cm in height and 3 - 6 Kg in weight.
Common Health
Problems This breed is particularly prone to eye problems such as Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) and Primary Lens Luxation (PLL). CEA is a hereditary disease in which the eye lacks a vascular layer known as the choroid. Puppies should be tested as early as 7 weeks after birth for signs of CEA. PLL is harder to diagnose, as it often goes unnoticed for the first few years. The disease can be inherited, so have your puppies tested before they start having litters.
Living Conditions Although bred for outdoor activities, Lancashire heelers make great house dogs and can be just as active indoors as they are outdoors. If you live in an apartment, however, your dog may turn hyperactive when you do take them outdoors. Daily walks are encouraged, but they should be kept to a minimum in colder climates.
Exercise
Requirements Lancashire heelers are highly energetic and need lots of exercise to stay that way. Indoor exercise should be sufficient, but try to take them on outdoor walks as often as possible. They also need a bit of mental stimulation, which can be achieved through playing and training. At the very least, make sure your dog gets enough exercise to keep its weight in check, as overweight dogs are prone to leg and hip problems.
Training Requirements Obedience training can be difficult, but not impossible. Once trained, Lancashires can be taught a wide variety of tricks and can even help with basic household tasks.
Life Expectancy Lancashire heelers can be expected to live 12 to 15 years or longer.
Grooming Lancashires can have long or short coats depending on the season, but they are fairly easy to groom since the coat remains smooth year-round. Most vets recommend weekly brushing with a bristle or wire brush. More brushing may be needed in the winter, when the coat grows thicker and the mane grows slightly longer. Baths can be given only when necessary.
Famous Examples
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More Lancashire Heeler Information: Check out our Lancashire Heeler Clubs and links to more informative websites dedicated to the breed.
Submit your Lancashire Heeler pictures Send us any pics of your Lancashire Heeler, let us know there name and age and any other details. We'll add to this page. Contact us
Lancashire Heeler Pics |
Doddsline Hot Chocolate |
Mongrels Angus Aspinall |
5 week old Lancashire Heeler Puppy |
Doddsline Hot Chocolate |
Telpoolwyn Desert Storm Photo with thanks to Lena Siversson, www.mongrelskennel.com |
Lancashire |
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Chewing on pipe |
2 Lancashire Heelers playing |
Resting in grass |
Standing in garden |
Photo with thanks Annarella Hedberg www.kalinsi.webb.se |
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