Tail-Wagging Happiness in the US since 2019
The Lancashire Heeler Shop
Lancashire Heeler Breed Summary
Intelligent, Energetic, Excitable, Friendly and Alert
These dogs are a very vulnerable breed within the UK, which is unfortunate as they are so lovely! They boast high intelligence, are very friendly and love to go on long walkies. Additionally, they are well known for their fantastic hunting abilities! Because Lancashire Heelers have so much energy, they are better when they have something to do to keep them busy.
They get on very well with mature and slightly older children and absolutely love to take part into interactive games! Their extreme loyalty and kind nature also means that they naturally thrive within a home environment.
Fun Fact: Originally, they were called Nip and Duck Dogs as this was the way that they got Livestock to move!
| Kennel Club Group | Miscellaneous |
| Lifespan | 9 - 15 Years |
| Height (at the withers) | Males and Females 10in - 12in |
| Weight | Males and Females 9lb - 17lb |
| Coat | Coats are Double, Consisting of a Fine Undercoat and a Dense, Short, Hard and Flat Topcoat |
| Color | Black & Tan, Liver & Tan |
| Eye color | Dark |
| Common health issues | Primary lens luxation (PLL), Collie eye anomaly (CEA), Hereditary cataracts (HC), Persistant Pupillary Membrane (PPM), Patella luxation |
| Other Names | Ormskirk Heeler, Ormskirk Terrier |
Lancashire Heelers are known for being very intelligent, which makes training them a fairly easy job! However, training and socialization must start as early as possible in order to shape a happy and well-rounded pooch. They have extremely high energy levels and therefore need lots of exercise and playtime. For this reason, they best suit a family who already lead an active lifestyle that they can easily slot into. These dogs have a tendency to nip on things that are closest to them when they get a little over-excited, although they never bite. They make excellent watchdogs due to their alertness and wariness towards strangers. Overall, they make lovely family pets and have the ability to provide you with years of joy and happiness.
These useful farm dogs were bred for generations within this particular district, developing their own characteristics. Once bred as a cattle herder and a ratter, these friendly little dogs have gained popularity as a wonderful family dog.
The breed was recognized by the Kennel Club in the U.K. in 1981 and was deemed a vulnerable native breed in 2003.
Today, there is a growing interest in this great companion dog that happily participates in obedience, agility, rally and herding events. The Lancashire Heeler has gained popularity in the U.S, Sweden, the Netherlands and Australia.