The Lancashire Heeler is an ancient breed with a rich history that spans over 200 years. They originated in the 19th century as a working dog, specifically bred to herd sheep and cattle.
Their name is a nod to their origins in Lancashire, a county in the north of England. This region is known for its rugged terrain and harsh weather conditions, which the breed was well-suited to handle.
The Lancashire Heeler's small stature and agility made them an ideal choice for navigating the narrow farm paths and handling the rough terrain of the countryside. They were also known for their intelligence and strong work ethic.
Their intelligence and trainability were highly valued by farmers, who used them to herd livestock and protect their property from predators.
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About This Breed
The Lancashire Heeler is a breed that's steeped in history, and it's believed to have originated from a cross between the Welsh Corgi and the Manchester Terrier.
The breed's roots date back to the time when cattle were herded from Wales to the markets in the Ormskirk area, and it was known as the Ormskirk Heeler or the Ormskirk Terrier long before it gained recognition from The Kennel Club.
This breed has inherited some amazing traits from its parent breeds, including the distinctive thumbs marks on the front legs from the Manchester Terrier and the low-to-the-ground heeling instinct from the Corgi.
The Lancashire Heeler is a lively and intelligent breed that's known for being long-lived, which is a testament to its robust health and happy disposition.
Heeler History and Information
The Lancashire heeler's exact origin is unknown and varies by source, but it's believed that their possible ancestors are the Cardigan Welsh corgi and Manchester terrier.
They were developed as excellent cattle herders, ratters, and companions, and still work on farms today.
The breed was recognized by The Kennel Club in the United Kingdom in 1981 and was moved into the Pastoral Group in 1999.
In the same year, liver and tan Lancashire heelers were officially approved to be in the breed standard.
The Lancashire heeler was approved to compete in the AKC's Miscellaneous Class with a Herding Group designation in 2018 and was officially recognized as the 201st breed by the AKC on January 1, 2024.
Their tiny frames can fool you, but they're actually a powerful breed with a rich history dating back to the 1600s.
Lancashire heelers are not lap pups, despite their small size, and need a job to be happy.
The breed standard describes their ancestors as butchers' dogs that would drive cattle to markets in West Lancashire, England.
Frequently Asked Questions
What breeds make a Lancashire Heeler?
The Lancashire Heeler is believed to be a cross between Welsh Corgis and the black and tan Manchester Terrier. This unique heritage likely contributed to the breed's distinctive characteristics.
Are Lancashire Heelers rare?
Yes, Lancashire Heelers are a rare breed with a global population of approximately 5,000. They have been recognized by the Foundation Stock Service since 2001.
Are Lancashire Heelers good and bad?
Lancashire Heelers have a loyal and courageous nature, but can be mischievous and stubborn if not properly trained. They make great family pets, especially for families with children, but may require extra attention and patience.
Sources
- https://hangtownheelers.com/history/
- https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/lancashire-heeler/
- https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/lancashire-heeler
- https://www.thesprucepets.com/lancashire-heeler-dog-breed-characteristics-and-care-8601419
- https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/search/breeds-a-to-z/breeds/pastoral/lancashire-heeler/
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