Texas Heeler

Dog Breed Profile

Texas Heeler History

The Texas Heeler is a medium-sized herding and livestock guardian dog. It is believed to be one of the oldest working and herding dogs in the Americas. The origins of the Texas Heeler are unknown, but it may have evolved as a blend of Spanish or Mexican herding stock and Native American dogs. The Spanish brought cattle, horses, sheep, and other livestock to both North and South America. This introduced new types of animals to the Native Americans, who began breeding their dogs to herd, guard, and protect the new arrivals.

Time of Origin

1970s

Country of Origin

United States Of America

Ancestry

Australian Cattle Dog, Australian Shepherd

Texas Heeler Physical Characteristics

The Texas Heeler is a medium-sized, muscular, athletic, intelligent, and agile breed that has short, shiny, straight, hard, and rough hair. It has a long, well-muscled neck, withers, back, and short, broad, and deep shoulders. Its limbs are muscular and moderately feathered. Its head is long and wedge-shaped, muzzle is blunt, and ears are pendant, small, and erect. Its nose is dark and is in proportion to the head. Its tail is thick at the base and tapers to the end. Its skin is tight and its lips are tight as well. Its teeth are scissor-like, with the upper jaw overlapping the lower one. Its dewclaws are removed. Its average height is 23 inches at the withers and its weight is 70-80 lbs. Its average life expectancy is 12 years.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Black

Coat Colors

Fawn, Blue, Black

Height Range

Male Height Range: 17 – 22 inches

Female Height Range: 17 – 22 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 45 – 50 lbs

Female Weight Range: 45 – 50 lbs

Texas Heeler Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

12-15 yrs

Texas Heeler Health Concerns

Distichiasis, Elbow Dysplasia, Hip Dysplasia, Osteochondritis Dissecans, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), Deafness, Cataracts, Epilepsy

Texas Heeler Temperament and Behaviour

The Texas Heeler is a playful, high-energy, and agile hunting dog. They are typically full of energy and are eager to please, making them one of the best working and sporting dogs available. They can learn new tricks at an impressive speed. They are gentle and protective with their family, but can be territorial and dominant with strangers.

Texas Heeler Activity Requirements

A medium-sized dog with a muscular build, the Texas Heeler is an energetic and agile herding dog. They are smart, friendly, and respond well to training, making them a great pet for an active family. A daily walk or jog will keep your Texas Heeler happy and healthy. They are a high-energy, athletic dog, and they will burn off their excess energy with vigorous play. If you have children, a Texas Heeler can be a great addition to your family. They are patient with younger children, and they love to play and run around.