Lancashire Heeler

The Lancashire Heeler was first created in Lancashire, England, sometime around the 1600s. Originally a farm dog, they drove cattle, nipping at the heels to get the cows in line. It’s likely that Lancashire Heelers, which are also known as Ormskirk Heelers or Ormskirk Terriers, come from a crossbreed of Welsh Corgis and a black and tan Manchester Terrier, but their exact origins remain a mystery. The Lancashire Heeler breed is relatively rare today.

If you like the idea of traipsing through the yard on a long walk with a dog, then the Lancashire Heeler will make an excellent companion. They have a lot of stamina and are ready to rock and roll for a walk at any given time. Clever, social, and sometimes spicy, the Lancashire Heeler needs owners who can cater to their high energy needs. 

While small in stature, the Lancashire Heeler dog has the endurance of a larger dog. They like to be fairly physically active, getting in regular exercise, and they won’t care if it’s pouring down rain outside. Games, puzzles, and training can help tire them out mentally. 

Small and easy to groom, the Lancashire Heeler doesn’t require a large amount of space. They do need a fenced-in yard, however, as they can be mini Houdinis if they see something that catches their eyes. Agile and clever, they also need a variety of walking routes and places to play off-leash if possible. 

With a short and smooth coat, the Lancashire Heeler is easy to groom. Use a rubber grooming mitt or a comb to keep the dog’s hair neat and tidy, and give them a bath when they need it. 

Training a Lancashire Heeler is an enjoyable task and one that will help owners bond with the dogs. They are motivated by food and toys. Patience is paramount when it comes to training them as are intelligent dogs. They are eager to please, though, and will pick things up if you are consistent with them. Lancashire Heelers love to push things and dig, so games and toys that allow them to do so are ideal. Socialization and recall are important, especially for the Lancashire Heeler to be around other dogs and animals such as livestock. 

The Lancashire Heeler can have a big terrier personality, so they work best in families with older children or no children. 

The cost of a Lancashire Heeler from a breeder is significantly more than the cost of adopting one from a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee usually covers additional items such as spaying or neutering, vaccines, and microchipping.