Blue Heeler Suddenly Aggressive

Blue Heelers, otherwise known as Australian Cattle dogs, are medium-sized dogs initially bred to work. They drove cattle over long distances across challenging terrains. But are Blue Heelers aggressive by nature? Does this come to them instinctively due to their lineage and ancestry? I have researched the breed; covering their traits, tendencies, characteristics, and average temperament. You will find all you need to know here today.

So, are Blue Heelers Aggressive? Blue Heelers can be aggressive during particular circumstances. They are naturally protective and controlling, due to their herding heritage. However, they are obedient and very intelligent so with proper socialization and training from a young age, this tendency can be managed and reduced.

The ‘Blue Heeler’ nickname came about from a combination of the color of their fur and the fact that they have a tendency to nip at the heels of cattle as they herded.

This trait still holds true; there are many reports from owners that these dogs attempt to herd any small children, or nip at those who are walking away.

While some will be more naturally aggressive than others, this is true for all breeds of dogs.

Equally, their environment, care, and upbringing play a large role in how they act and behave.

Generally, Blue Heelers are extremely loyal to their owners and want to be by their sides day and night.

They are typically very affectionate with their family, however; they are known to be wary of strangers.

Let us now take a closer look at the typical Blue Heeler temperament, before turning to potential causes of aggression and some proactive methods to curb these tendencies.

Why do pets need to get some fresh air and exercise every day?

Pets are like family members, and it’s important for them to get some fresh air and exercise every day.

They need this to be healthy, happy animals.

For dogs, daily walks provide an opportunity for socialization with their owners, other pets, or people they meet on the street – which is good for both parties.

Dogs who live in the city may enjoy several walks a day instead of those living on farms or ranches where they need more space and can run around all day long.

Owners need to make sure their dogs get at least one good walk per day, but other options include throwing a ball or going to a dog park.

Dogs that are left inside all day can become destructive, leading to eviction from your apartment.

Exercise is important for a healthy dog and reduces the risk of obesity!

Obesity in dogs increases their chances of developing arthritis or other weight-related diseases.

It also puts them at high risk for heatstroke during warmer months and a heart condition called aortic stenosis.

When your dog is not walked enough, they may become aggressive towards other dogs or people walking by outside, leading to an eviction notice or citation.

As any animal lover knows, it’s important to provide our furry friends with toys.

Dogs are social creatures, so they get bored when left alone all day.

It’s important to make sure your pet stays active and engaged with toys or walking them through the neighborhood!

What’s It Like to Own Blue and Red Heelers?

If you have ever seen a Blue Heeler work, you would know they throw their whole heart and soul into everything they do. They would die trying to do the job their master asks of them before giving up.

Their pace is either flat-out or not at all; they dont know the words “steady” or “slow.” They have a heart of gold. Even in play, it is full on, and you need to use caution as their teeth are sharp. They do not mean to hurt anyone; they are just so quick.

Blue heelers are very faithful and doting dogs for their masters. I sometimes believe they know more than we do. They are so smart; I believe that our Titan is one step ahead of us all the time and knows how to get around us mere humans.

The early settlers coming to Australia brought both livestock and their dogs. Their dogs had no stamina to cope with the extreme conditions in Australias outback; it was too harsh for them. Therefore, settlers tried breeding a tougher, more resilient type of dog.

They tried many breeds in this experiment:

First, they crossed the Smithfield with the Dingo. This was not completely successful.

Then someone imported Blue Smooth Highland Collies and crossed these with the Dingo. They crossed the young again with a Dingo; these pups were born with speckled bluish or reddish fur.

The next idea was to cross black and red Kelpies with these dogs.

After years of trial and error, the Australian Cattle Dog, otherwise known as the Blue or Red Heeler, evolved.

Titan had an operation to remove a lump on the jugular vein in his neck. We nearly lost him.

Tips:

If you like taking long walks, this is a great time to take your dog.

Make sure everyone in the family participates and that they walk their dogs daily as well!

You can even try walking them at night or during rainy days when it’s not as hot.

Make sure to have a designated route so you can avoid areas where people or other animals may be, and don’t forget your dog waste bags!

If walking isn’t quite what you were looking for, then try playing fetch with them instead!

You can even play tug of war games which will help release their energy even more.

Just make sure you’re watching out for biting, as this may be one of their defense mechanisms!

If none of these work, try an agility course or other obstacle courses to help keep them busy and stop them from chewing up your house! If all else fails, consider investing in a treadmill so they can run off their energy whenever they want.

The most important thing to remember is that you should always make sure your dog has enough mental and physical stimulation.

Without it, biting may occur! So make sure you are taking him for walks at least once a day or getting them involved in other activities, so he can be happy and healthy!

Keeping this breed indoors all day can lead to boredom which leads to trouble!

FAQ

Why do Blue Heelers get aggressive?

How do you train a blue heeler not to be aggressive?

Why is my dog suddenly growling at me?