How to Train Blue Heeler Cow Pups

Blue heelers, also known as Australian heelers or the Australian cattle dog, are smart, tough working dogs. Farmers bred the heelers to help handle large herds in harsh Australian Outback conditions in the mid 1800s, breeding blue smooth Highland collies with native dingos, and later with Dalmatians and Australian kelpies. In addition to herding cattle, the breed is known for being loyal, great guard dogs and excellent family pets. Heelers are highly intelligent, but like all pets and working dogs, require some training.

Things You'll Need

  • Blue Heeler
  • cattle
  • patience
  • routine
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Choose your dog selectively. Blue heelers are typically smart, but it's important to pick the right pup for training as a herding dog for cattle. If the dog's sire and dame are working herding dogs, their offspring will be likely to naturally follow in their footsteps.

    • 2

      Travel with your dog, everywhere. This will train your blue heeler to know that his or her place is by your side, regardless of location; when you are out with the cattle it will be a natural companionship.

    • 3

      Let your pup learn from experience, by paring your heeler with a more mature and practiced herd dog. The elder canine will respond to your commands, and your pup will watch and learn what is expected of him or her as a herd dog.

    • 4

      Heelers enjoy exercise and the chase. Start your pup out herding working with yearlings and smaller cattle in corrals. This will aclimate your heeler to being around cattle and in a herding environment.

    • 5

      If you herd on horseback, work with training your dog to stay behind and to the side of your horse. If your pup is too close, there's a chance he or she will try to herd the horse, or could be injured.

    • 6

      Nipping is instinctual in herding breeds as a method of controlling the cattle. While blue heelers can be loyal pets, it is possible they will view children as needing herding and may nip as well. A variety of toys and plenty of exercise will help minimizing nipping.