Lancashire Heeler

Updated August 11, 2025

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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.

Temperament

Intelligent, Playful, Loyal, Alert, Affectionate

Weight

13-18 pounds

Height

10-12 inches

Life Expectancy

12-15 years

Coat Color

Black & Tan, Liver & Tan

At a Glance

Maintenance Level

2/5

Friendliness

4/5

Energy Level

4/5

Good with Kids

4/5

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Characteristics Appearance Temperament Care Health History FAQs

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.

12-15 years
Lifespan
13-18 pounds
Weight
10-12 inches
Height
4
Energy Level

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

Individual Variation

Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.

Care Requirements

Exercise Needs

Couch Potato Star Athlete

Grooming Needs

Minimal Grooming Extensive Grooming

Training Needs

Requires Minimal Training Requires a Lot of Training

Health Issues

Few Known Health Issues Many Known Health Issues

Shedding Level

Sheds a Little Sheds a Lot

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

IntelligentPlayfulLoyalAlertAffectionate

Good With

Active FamiliesSeniorsSinglesOlder Children

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

Primary Lens Luxation (PLL) - An inherited eye disease where the lens dislocates, which can be painful and lead to glaucoma or blindness. A DNA test is available.
Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) - A congenital, inherited condition that affects the development of the eye. A DNA test is available.
Patellar Luxation - A condition where the kneecap dislocates or slips out of place, common in many small breeds.
Hereditary Cataracts - Clouding of the lens of the eye which can impair vision.
Persistent Pupillary Membrane (PPM) - The persistence of fetal blood vessel remnants in the eye, which can sometimes affect vision.

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.

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

Start socialization and training from a young age.
Use positive reinforcement with treats and praise.
Keep training sessions fun and varied to maintain their interest.
Be consistent and firm with rules and boundaries.
Enroll in activities like agility or herding to satisfy their instincts.

Frequently Asked Questions

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.