Lancashire Heeler
Updated December 2, 2025
The Lancashire Heeler is an intelligent, affectionate, and versatile small herding dog. Recognized for its historic role as a cattle drover and ratter on English farms, it is now also a beloved family companion that excels in modern dog sports and loves being an active part of the family.
Intelligent, Playful, Loyal, Alert, Affectionate
13-18 pounds
10-12 inches
12-15 years
Black & Tan, Liver & Tan
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About Lancashire Heeler
The Lancashire Heeler is an intelligent, affectionate, and versatile small herding dog. Recognized for its historic role as a cattle drover and ratter on English farms, it is now also a beloved family companion that excels in modern dog sports and loves being an active part of the family.
What Makes Lancashire Heelers Special
The Lancashire Heeler is a charming and versatile companion, combining the tenacity of a heeler with the affectionate nature of a family dog. They are intelligent, plucky, and full of personality, often surprising people with their big-dog attitude in a compact body.
These dogs are loyal and form deep bonds with their owners, enjoying both active adventures and quiet time at home. Their alert and friendly expression, complete with their signature 'Heeler smile,' is hard to resist.
Lancashire Heeler History & Origin
The exact origins of the Lancashire Heeler are a bit of a mystery, but they have been known in their native county of Lancashire for centuries. It is widely believed they originated from crosses between Welsh Corgis, who were brought to northern England to drive cattle, and the local Manchester Terriers.
The breed was developed in the Ormskirk area of West Lancashire, where they were known as the Ormskirk Heeler and used as all-purpose farm dogs, adept at both herding and ratting.
Their short stature was advantageous, allowing them to nip at the heels of cattle and duck out of the way of kicks.
The breed was first recognized by The Kennel Club (UK) in 1981, thanks to the efforts of breeder Gwen Mackintosh.
The Lancashire Heeler is considered a Vulnerable Native Breed in the UK due to low registration numbers, making well-bred puppies rare.
The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and joined the Herding Group in January 2024.
Lancashire Heeler Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Lancashire Heeler Appearance
The Lancashire Heeler is a small, sturdily built dog that is slightly longer than it is tall. They are powerful for their size, with an alert and energetic expression. Their movements are described as smart and brisk.
Their coat is typically black and tan or liver and tan, and it is short, dense, and weather-resistant. A defining feature is their large, mobile ears that convey a keen awareness of their surroundings.
Physical Features
Ears
Set wide apart, the ears are large and stand erect or are partially erect with some lift, contributing to their alert look.
Eyes
Their almond-shaped eyes are dark and expressive. In liver and tan dogs, the eye color can be a lighter hazel that complements the coat.
Nose
The nose is solid black on black and tan dogs, and solid brown on liver and tan dogs, matching their coat pigment.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
The Lancashire Heeler has a short double coat. The topcoat is hard and flat, while the undercoat is fine and dense, providing protection from the elements.
Coat Color
The two standard and recognized coat colors are Black and Tan, and Liver and Tan. Both feature rich tan markings on the muzzle, cheeks, chest, and legs. A 'thumb mark' above the front feet is desirable.
Tail
The tail is natural, set high, and carried over the back in a slight curve. It is never a complete ring.
Lancashire Heeler Temperament
The Lancashire Heeler is often described as 'a big dog in a small body.' They are clever, cheerful, and endlessly loyal to their families. Their herding and terrier ancestry makes them alert and courageous, always ready for action.
Heelers are affectionate companions who thrive on being part of the family activities. They are generally happy and friendly, but their intelligence means they require mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
While friendly with their family, they can be reserved with strangers initially. Early and consistent socialization is key to developing a well-rounded and confident dog. Their instinct to 'heel' might manifest as nipping at people's heels, a behavior that should be managed through training from a young age.
They are known to be quite vocal and will alert you to anything unusual, making them excellent watchdogs. Their playful and energetic nature makes them a joy to have around for active owners.
This breed forms a strong bond with its owners and desires to be a constant companion, whether that means working hard at a dog sport or cuddling on the couch after a long day.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Lancashire Heelers are a generally healthy breed with a lifespan of 12-15 years. Responsible breeders screen their stock for known genetic conditions to promote the long-term health of the breed. Being aware of potential issues is key for proactive care.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular vet check-ups, eye screenings, proper nutrition, maintaining a healthy weight, and daily exercise.
How to Care for a Lancashire Heeler
The Lancashire Heeler is a relatively low-maintenance but high-energy breed. They need consistent daily exercise, mental challenges, and routine grooming to stay happy and healthy. Despite their small size, they are not lap dogs and thrive on activity.
Grooming
Lancashire Heelers have a short, weather-resistant double coat that is easy to maintain. Brushing once or twice a week with a firm bristle brush or grooming mitt is usually sufficient to remove loose hair and keep the coat healthy.
They shed seasonally, typically in the spring and fall, during which more frequent brushing may be necessary to manage the increased hair loss.
Bathing should only be done as needed to avoid stripping the coat of its natural oils. Regular nail trims, ear cleaning to prevent infections, and dental care are essential parts of their grooming routine.
Training
Lancashire Heelers are intelligent and generally eager to please, making them trainable. However, they have an independent and clever streak, which can be a challenge. They respond best to firm, fair, and consistent training using positive reinforcement methods.
Training sessions should be kept fun and engaging to hold their interest. They excel in various dog sports like agility, obedience, rally, and even herding trials, which provide excellent mental and physical stimulation.
Early socialization is crucial to ensure they grow into well-behaved companions who are comfortable around new people, sights, sounds, and other animals. It's important to manage their natural instinct to nip at heels from puppyhood.
Diet
A high-quality dog food formulated for small, active breeds is recommended for the Lancashire Heeler. Their diet should be appropriate for their age (puppy, adult, or senior).
Because small breeds have a fast metabolism, they burn energy at a high rate and benefit from small, frequent meals—typically two a day. Portion control is important as the breed can be prone to obesity.
Ensure fresh, clean water is always available. Consult your veterinarian to determine the best diet and portion sizes for your individual dog based on their activity level and health.
Exercise
Despite their small stature, Lancashire Heelers are energetic dogs that require at least an hour of exercise per day. This should include daily walks combined with more vigorous activities.
They need a 'job' to do to stay mentally stimulated. They thrive on activities like playing fetch, learning new tricks, and participating in dog sports. Interactive puzzle toys can also help keep their sharp minds busy.
A securely fenced yard is recommended, as these dogs can be clever escape artists. They enjoy being active with their owners and are not content to be left alone in a yard for long periods.
Environment
Lancashire Heelers are adaptable and can live in various settings, including apartments, as long as their exercise and mental stimulation needs are met daily. However, a home with a securely fenced yard is ideal.
They are best suited for active individuals or families who can provide them with the companionship and activity they crave. They want to be involved in all aspects of family life.
Because of their history as farm dogs, they have a high prey drive and an instinct to chase, so they must be kept on a leash in unfenced areas.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
Adaptable to apartment life with sufficient exercise, but a home with a yard is ideal.
Climate Adaptability
Does well in most climates but should be protected from extreme heat and cold.
Apartment Living
Can be a good apartment dog for active owners who can meet their exercise needs.
Best Suited For
Best suited for active owners or families who enjoy training and playing with their dog.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Lancashire Heelers good family dogs?
Yes, Lancashire Heelers can be excellent family dogs, especially with older children who know how to interact with a dog respectfully. Their herding instinct may make them unsuitable for homes with very young toddlers unless carefully supervised.
How much do Lancashire Heelers bark?
They can be quite vocal. They are alert watchdogs and will bark to notify you of strangers or unusual sounds. Training can help manage excessive barking.
Do Lancashire Heelers shed a lot?
They have a double coat and shed moderately year-round, with heavier shedding seasonally in the spring and fall. They are not a hypoallergenic breed.
Are Lancashire Heelers aggressive?
They are not typically aggressive but are brave and may try to 'heel' or herd people and other animals. This is an instinct, not aggression, but it needs to be managed through training. They are generally friendly and affectionate with their families.
Can Lancashire Heelers be left alone?
They thrive on companionship and can be prone to separation anxiety and destructive behavior if left alone for extended periods without enough exercise or mental stimulation.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Requires early and thorough socialization, puppy training classes, and management of nipping behavior.
Senior Care
May require joint supplements, a less strenuous exercise routine, and more frequent vet check-ups.
First-Time Owner Tips
Can be a good choice for dedicated first-time owners who are prepared for their energy and intelligence, but some experience is beneficial.
Looking for a Lancashire Heeler?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.