The Texas Heeler is a herding dog and is also known as the Blue or Queensland Heeler. This dog will impress you with its personality and wit; it has a beautiful appearance and is a highly intelligent dog breed.
This article will discuss all the information regarding Texas Heelers, such as their characteristics, history, nutrition, and much more.
Texas Heeler’s History
The Texas Heeler is a hybrid dog breed resulting from crossing the Australian shepherd dog with the Australian cattle dog. The Texas Heeler is an intelligent dog breed and likes to remain active. The dog exhibits a variety of characteristics that are derived from both the parent breeds.
Since the Texas heeler is a hybrid, it may produce litters of puppies with different temperamental and physical characteristics. It is believed that the first Texas Heeler dog was registered in 1970 by a lady called Lucy Guynes.
While the Texas Heeler is commonly found in Texas, no one kennel or breeder is officially credited for the development or creation of the breed.
Texas Heeler Characteristics
The Texas Heeler is a medium-sized dog breed and can attain a height of 17 to 22 inches. There are variations in weights, and it largely depends on the dog’s lifestyle.
The color is the most notable characteristic of the Texas Heeler, and it usually has a speckled fur, with mixtures of brown, black, grey, and white coloration. The Texas Heeler has short fur, bobbed tails and floppy ears. Just a few weeks after the birth, the ears of the puppy will perk up.
How Big Can A Texas Heeler Get?
The average weight of the Texas Heeler is up to 25 to 50 pounds. At maturity, the Texas Heeler can be 17 to 22 inches tall.
- Six months old: Average Height: 9.5 inches/ Average Weight: 22.5 pounds
- 12 months old: Average Height: 13 inches / Average Weight: 32.5 pounds
- 18 months old: Average Height: 16 inches / Average Weight: 40 pounds
How Long Can A Texas Heeler Live?
The Texas Heeler can have a lifespan of twelve to fifteen years. However, with proper care, you can increase the lifespan of the dog.
How Much Does A Texas Heeler Cost?
The average price of a Texas Heeler is roughly $ 600. The daily cost of feeding the dog is $ 1.20 to 1.40. The monthly food cost for the Texas Heeler is $ 34 to 45.
Texas Heeler Personality/Temperament
The Texas Heeler is highly intelligent and easily trainable. The dog will consistently watch for signals and cues. The Texas Heeler also has herding instincts, which can make it tough to keep. However, the dog breed is affectionate and highly protective of its family.
The Texas Heeler might react angrily towards strangers, being standoffish. To protect his family, the dog will herd strangers away. Experts recommend providing the Texas Heeler means of socialization at an early age so that you can teach it how to behave around strangers and family members.
The Texas Heeler is also a great watchdog and won’t bark until the stranger is insight. While the dog typically tolerates children, it may sometimes herd or nip them. You should not keep a Texas Heeler if you already have other pets or dogs.
Texas Heeler’s Nutrition
Adult Texas Heelers and puppies have different dietary requirements. You need to add vitamins to the diet that will protect the dog from dangerous health issues.
You can feed the puppies a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and lean protein. If your puppy has a sensitive tummy, feed it dog food for sensitive stomachs.
This diet will support healthy joints and muscles and protect the puppy from dysplasia. For adult Texas Heelers, the diet should consist of lean protein, chicken, and fish. Since Texas Heelers are energetic, this diet will support joint, cartilage, and muscle health. Are you having trouble finding the right food for your dog? Try feeding him organic dog food or natural balance dog food.
How Do You Groom A Texas Heeler?
How much hair does a Texas Heeler shed? Typically a moderate amount of hair. Most Texas Heelers have medium or short-length hair, and they require brushing once a week. To brush their hair, you can use a dog brush. If you plan to bathe your dog, don’t forget to use the dog shampoo.
Activity Levels of a Texas Heeler
Texas Heelers need on average sixty minutes of exercise daily. You need to understand the Texas Heeler was bred for ranches and farms. However, that doesn’t mean that the dog cannot be a family dog. You should take the Texas Heeler to the woods, fields, or the nearby dog park. You can also play fetch with the dog at the park. The Texas Heeler needs space to live, so it is not suited for apartment life.
Health Concerns for Texas Heelers
Like all dog breeds, the Texas Heeler needs a balanced diet. Unlike purebreds, crossbreeds are less likely to develop hereditary health issues. While Texas Heelers are typically extremely healthy, they can also have health complications.
One of the most common health issues faced by Texas Heelers is hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is usually caused by having an active lifestyle and running excessively. As the dog gets older, the health issue causes painful arthritis and decreased mobility.
The Texas Heeler may require equipment to regain mobility or surgery in some situations. Another health issue that is often found in Texas Heelers is Distichia. In Distichia, an extra eyelash grows from the margin of the eyelid.
While Distichia is generally harmless, if left untreated, it can cause eye irritation, pain, and bacterial infections. Texas Heelers can also fall victim to PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy). In PRA, the dog can lose its eyesight and become blind permanently. Texas Heelers are also prone to developing cataracts.
Breeds Similar To a Texas Heeler
- Old English Sheepdog
- Border Collie
- Swedish Vallhund
- Australian Cattle Dog
- Australian Shepherd Dog
- Australian Kelpie
Best Dog Food for Texas Heelers
The best dog food for Texas Heeler is Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food. This dog food is manufactured using high-quality and healthy ingredients. It contains roasted venison and bison in the recipe. The formula is rich in protein that delivers superior muscle health.
- The nutritious formula provides high energies for the active lifestyle of your pal.
- Equipped with prebiotics, probiotics, and antioxidants for better digestion and immunity.
- Omega fatty acids make the coat and skin healthier.
Best Puppy Food for Texas Heelers
The best puppy food for Texas Heeler is Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dry Dog Food. This puppy food has been crafted with natural ingredients that do not contain artificial ingredients like preservatives, colors, and flavors.
- Improves immunity through vitamin E, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
- Includes DHA to enhance the brain, skeletal, and vision of your pup.
- Supports a delicious taste that will make your dog crave more.
Best Dog Crate for Texas Heelers
The best dog crate for Texas Heeler is Paws & Pals Oxgord Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate. This dog crate has a secure structure. It comes with a divider panel that can be used for adjusting the size and growing your dog inside.
- Features a collapsible design for convenient storage.
- High tensile strength wires make it extremely durable and long-lasting.
- Offer greater rust, fade, and corrosion resistance.
Best Dog Bed for Texas Heelers
The best dog bed for Texas Heeler is FurHaven Calming Cuddler Long Fur Donut Bolster Dog Bed. This bed has ultrasoft material and a cozy structure to deliver a desirable sleeping space for your dog.
- Reduces anxiety and soothes your pal.
- Contains pockets for hiding treats and toys.
- Supports a washable design.
Best Dog Harness for Texas Heelers
The best dog harness for Texas Heeler is PetSafe 3 in 1 Reflective Dog Harness. This harness has a reflective material that provides higher visibility even in darker hours. Moreover, it is extremely comfortable.
- Provides reliable fitting with adjustable points.
- Allows your pal to wear for longer durations.
- Attach leash with dual-clip.
Recommended Reading:
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