Texas Heeler Puppies: Everything You Need to Know

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Posted Oct 20, 2024

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Australian Cattle Dog with Snow on his Snout
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Texas Heeler puppies are a cross between an Australian Cattle Dog and a Blue Heeler, making them a unique and energetic breed. They require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.

These puppies are known to be intelligent and trainable, but can be stubborn at times, requiring consistent and patient training. They thrive on structure and clear boundaries.

Texas Heelers are generally a medium-sized breed, with males weighing between 35-50 pounds and females weighing between 30-40 pounds. They have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming.

Characteristics of the Texas Heeler

Texas Heelers are highly intelligent and active dogs that thrive on mental and physical stimulation. They were bred to work, so they need daily opportunities to exercise their body and brain.

If left unchecked, a Texas Heeler's headstrong nature can make them difficult to train. However, with consistent training and positive reinforcement, they can become highly trainable and learn new tricks and cues.

A Texas Heeler's loyalty is reserved for their family, but they may be wary of strangers. Socializing your puppy from an early age can help them accept new people, animals, and situations with ease.

Here's a summary of Texas Heeler characteristics:

Appearance

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The Texas Heeler is a medium-sized dog breed, typically ranging from 17 to 22 inches in height.

Their adult weight can vary, but most dogs usually weigh between 25 to 50 pounds.

Those used for herding tend to be slimmer, while pet Texas Heelers may develop obesity.

Their coat is a mix of colors, often including white, black, brown, or grey.

Most Texas Heelers are born with their tail bobbed, which is one of their distinctive features.

As puppies, their ears are floppy, but they perk up and become pointy within a few weeks.

Their big, bright eyes are generally brown, and many Texas Heelers are born with a naturally bobbed tail.

Their coat does a great job of regulating their temperature in both hot and cold weather, thanks to its protective, weatherproof double layer.

Related reading: Brown Bernedoodle Puppies

Personality and Temperament

The Texas Heeler's personality and temperament are truly one-of-a-kind. They're bred to work and thrive on mental and physical stimulation.

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These dogs are incredibly intelligent, with a strong desire to serve their owners. In fact, they can be trained to do almost anything with consistent positive reinforcement.

A Texas Heeler's strong herding instincts can sometimes get the best of them, causing them to try to herd children, cats, other dogs, and even adults. Early socialization and training can help curb this behavior, but it's essential to closely supervise their interactions with small children and other animals.

Texas Heelers are naturally wary of strangers and may alert their family to someone unfamiliar with a bark. But socializing your Texas Heeler puppy from an early age will help them accept new people, animals, and situations with ease.

Here's a breakdown of the Texas Heeler's personality traits:

Texas Heelers are highly trainable, but they can be a bit challenging to manage due to their strong will and tendency to experiment to get what they want. With consistent training, positive reinforcement, and socialization, they can become invaluable members of your family.

Exercise and Living Needs

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Texas heeler puppies need lots of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. They're bred from two very active herding breeds, so they'll require lots of physical and mental stimulation.

As working dogs, Texas heelers prefer having a job to do and are highly task-oriented. They make excellent running and cycling companions, but they'll also thrive with a variety of activities that condition them physically and stimulate them mentally.

Some great activities for Texas heelers include hide-and-seek, fetch, canine sports, agility, and obedience training. They have an innate drive to herd, so be sure to walk your dog on a leash and keep them close when out and about.

Texas heelers need a large, securely fenced yard or even better, a farm, where they can stretch their legs. They're not a good candidate for city or apartment living, as they require plenty of outdoor exercise every day.

A mix of high-intensity activities like agility and fetch, and endurance-based decompression like hiking and trail running, is important for Texas heelers. This mix will help prevent them from becoming "adrenaline junkies" who struggle to relax.

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Texas heelers who don't get the appropriate amount of exercise will likely find other ways to burn off their energy, such as investigating what's inside fluffy couch pillows. So, plan on an activity of some sort every day with your Texas heeler.

Here are some great activities for Texas heelers:

  • Hide-and-seek
  • Fetch
  • Canine sports
  • Agility
  • Obedience training
  • Running
  • Hiking
  • Biking
  • Swimming
  • Herding
  • Dock diving
  • Competitive doggie dancing

Grooming and Health

Texas Heelers have short to medium-length coats that shed moderately, with heavier shedding during the spring and fall. Regular brushing with a bristle or pin brush can help minimize excessive shedding.

You'll want to brush your Texas Heeler at least once or twice a week to keep their coat healthy. Additionally, maintain a regular grooming routine for teeth brushing, ear cleaning, and nail trims. If you're unsure or unable to complete these tasks, consider hiring a professional groomer.

Some common health issues in Texas Heelers include hip and elbow dysplasia, eye problems, deafness, and multidrug sensitivity. Regular veterinary check-ups and a nutritious diet can help prevent or manage these conditions.

Here are some specific health issues to watch out for:

  • Hip and elbow dysplasia
  • Eye problems (progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, distichia)
  • Deafness
  • Multi-drug sensitivity

Grooming Guide

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Texas Heelers have a double coat of short to medium fur that sheds moderately most of the time.

Brushing your Texas Heeler's coat at least once or twice weekly with a bristle or pin brush can help keep their coat healthy and minimize excessive shedding.

Regular grooming is essential, including teeth brushing, ear cleaning, and nail trims, which can be done every few weeks or by a professional groomer if needed.

Eye problems are a concern for this breed, so check your dog's eyes often for signs of cloudiness, irritation, and redness.

Texas Heelers don't tend to shed more than other dogs, but they do shed, so they may not be the best fit for people with breathing problems like asthma.

Their coat is easy to groom, and if your pet is patient, you can give them a haircut at home, or take them to an experienced groomer if needed.

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In cold climates, you'll need to supply your dog with a coat, as their fur is not dense enough to keep them warm.

Brushing your Texas Heeler about once or twice a week is usually sufficient, but they may need extra brushing twice a year when they shed their undercoat.

Bathing frequency depends on how much time your Texas Heeler spends outdoors, but regular ear cleaning is essential to prevent infections.

Talk to your veterinarian about how and how often to clean your dog's ears, and schedule a vet appointment if you notice signs of infection like pain, head shaking, or a foul odor.

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Health Issues

Texas heelers are prone to a few health issues that you should be aware of. Hip and elbow dysplasia are common problems that can cause abnormal development of the hips or elbows, leading to joint instability.

Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to detect these issues early. Texas heelers are also at risk of eye problems, including hereditary cataracts, primary lens luxation, and progressive retinal atrophy, which can cause blindness.

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Eye care is essential for this breed. Monitor your Texas heeler's eyes for signs of disease, such as cloudiness and inflammation, and consult your vet if you notice any changes.

Texas heelers can also develop epilepsy, a neurological condition that requires careful management. Deafness is another potential issue, particularly in blue heelers and their crosses.

To minimize the risk of these health problems, make sure your Texas heeler gets enough exercise. At least an hour of daily walking is recommended to prevent obesity.

Here are some common health issues to watch out for:

  • Hip and elbow dysplasia
  • Eye problems (cataracts, primary lens luxation, progressive retinal atrophy)
  • Epilepsy
  • Deafness
  • Obesity

Consult your vet regularly to detect any potential health issues early, and don't hesitate to seek advice if you have any concerns.

Training and Behavior

Texas Heeler puppies are highly intelligent and respond best to positive reinforcement training. They thrive on structure and routine, so establish a consistent training schedule from an early age.

Socialization is crucial for Texas Heelers, especially when they're young. Puppies should be socialized either at the kennel or by their owners to help them interact with humans and other animals.

A unique perspective: Australian Cattle Dog Training

Credit: youtube.com, How to Train Your Blue Heeler | Best Blue Heeler Puppy Training Tips

Texas Heelers have strong herding instincts, which can be both a blessing and a curse. If not properly trained, they may try to herd children, cats, or other pets, so it's essential to supervise their interactions closely.

These dogs love to be put to work and enjoy activities like flyball, which can help channel their energy and intelligence. With consistent positive reinforcement, Texas Heelers can learn new tricks and cues in no time.

However, Texas Heelers can be wary of strangers and may bark to alert their family to new people. Early socialization can help them become more confident and accepting of new people and situations.

Texas Heelers are naturally protective of their family and may become overly protective if not properly trained. They need to learn that not everyone is a threat, and with patience and consistency, they can develop good judgment.

These dogs are highly trainable, but they can be a bit stubborn at times. Consistent positive reinforcement is key to keeping them engaged and motivated during training sessions.

Care and Nutrition

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Texas Heeler puppies require a lot of physical and mental stimulation, so be prepared to provide them with a job that gives them a physical and mental outlet.

They need a home where they can work, participate in daily sports, or engage in activities like running, agility, and obedience training.

A Texas Heeler's diet should include biologically appropriate food containing protein and healthy fats to prevent easy weight gain.

Ground bone and vegetables are essential for their optimal health and performance, so look for formulas that include these ingredients.

Talk to your vet about the amount of food to feed your dog, as well as how often to feed them, and consider feeding smaller meals multiple times a day.

Texas Heelers are low maintenance when it comes to grooming, requiring only a once-a-week brushing, but may need extra attention twice a year when the undercoat is shed.

Feeding a Texas Heeler is not a one-size-fits-all solution, so partner with your veterinarian to develop a feeding plan that's nutritionally complete and balanced for your pup's age, size, and health history.

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Most adult Texas Heelers should eat two meals a day, while puppies may require three meals due to their higher metabolism.

A joint supplement containing glucosamine and chondroitin can be very helpful for Texas Heelers with hip or elbow dysplasia, or for older dogs developing arthritis, but always talk to your veterinarian before adding anything new to their diet.

Purchasing and Adoption

You can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,000 for a Texas heeler puppy from a reputable breeder.

Always seek out a reputable breeder who can provide health and vaccination records for both parents and have a track record of healthy litters.

The average price of a Texas Heeler is approximately $400-$500, but it can go up to $1,000 or more for a well-bred individual.

The average yearly cost of owning a Texas Heeler is $500 to $700, including basic vet care, but food, treats, and toys can add up to $400 or more per year.

You can also consider adopting a Texas Heeler from a shelter or breed-specific rescue, such as the Texas Cattle Dog Rescue.

Adopting or Buying a Dog

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You can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,000 for a Texas Heeler puppy from a breeder, with the average price being around $400-$500.

Reputable breeders should be able to provide you with health and vaccination records for both parents and have a track record of healthy litters.

Working with a breeder is usually necessary to get a Texas Heeler, as they are considered a "designer breed."

You can also consider adopting a Texas Heeler from a shelter or breed-specific rescue, such as the Texas Cattle Dog Rescue.

The average yearly cost of owning a Texas Heeler is $500 to $700, and that only includes basic vet care.

Food, treats, and toys can cost up to $400 per year or more, in addition to the initial purchase price of the dog.

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Choosing a Breed

Choosing a Breed can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be.

Reading up on a breed, like the Texas Heeler, can give you a good idea if it's the right fit for you. You can use online forums, educational videos, and social media groups to see what people are saying about owning a certain breed.

Doing your research can also help you avoid making a decision you might regret later. It's always a good idea to learn as much as you can about a breed before deciding to bring one home.

Pros and Cons

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Texas Heeler puppies require lots of daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

This means you'll need to be prepared to take them on regular walks, playtime, and training sessions. If you're an active person, a Texas Heeler might be a great fit for you.

However, if you're away from home for long periods, you may need to consider hiring a dog walker or asking a friend to check in on them. This is because Texas Heelers can get destructive if left alone too long.

Here's a quick rundown of the potential downsides to consider:

  • Require lots of daily exercise and mental stimulation
  • Can be wary of strangers
  • Can get destructive if left alone too long
  • Strong herding instincts

Pros

The pros of this topic are numerous and impressive. One of the biggest advantages is that it can be implemented in a cost-effective manner, reducing expenses and increasing efficiency.

It's also highly adaptable, making it suitable for a wide range of applications and industries. This versatility is a major plus, allowing users to tailor it to their specific needs.

Credit: youtube.com, Pros and Cons

Another significant benefit is its ability to improve customer satisfaction, leading to increased loyalty and retention. This is achieved by providing a more personalized and engaging experience.

Its scalability is also noteworthy, allowing it to grow and evolve alongside the needs of the organization. This flexibility is essential for long-term success.

Overall, the pros of this topic make it an attractive option for those looking to improve their operations and enhance their customer experience.

Cons

Texas Heelers can be wary of strangers, which may make socialization a bit more challenging if you're not careful.

If you have a Texas Heeler, you'll need to provide them with lots of daily exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

Leaving them alone for too long can lead to destructive behavior, so be sure to plan your day accordingly.

These dogs have strong herding instincts, which means they'll likely try to herd kids, other pets, or even cars if they get the chance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What two breeds make a Texas Heeler?

The Texas Heeler is a cross between the Australian Cattle Dog and the Australian Shepherd. This unique blend of breeds makes the Texas Heeler an intriguing and relatively new addition to the world of dog breeds.

How big does a Texas blue heeler get?

A Texas Heeler typically weighs between 26-60 pounds. This medium-sized breed requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to thrive.

What color are Heeler puppies when born?

Heeler puppies are primarily white at birth. They develop their distinctive blue or red-tinted coats as they mature.

Sources

  1. Texas Cattle Dog Rescue (texascattledogrescue.com)
  2. Texas Heeler Breed Information (spiritdogtraining.com)
  3. Journey Dog Training (journeydogtraining.com)
  4. collie eye anomaly (vcahospitals.com)
  5. breed standard (acdca.org)
  6. Texas Heeler (petguide.com)

June Weber

Assigning Editor

June Weber is an accomplished Assigning Editor with a passion for storytelling and animal welfare. With a keen eye for compelling narratives, June has successfully assigned articles on a wide range of topics, including the joys and challenges of dog ownership. June's expertise spans multiple categories, including canine breeds such as the Blue Heeler and Mixed Breed Dogs.