Blue heelers, also known as Australian heelers or Queensland heelers, were bred to herd cattle and are full of energy. They frequently have dominant personalities and are known for their intelligence. If this energetic, dominant, intelligent dog is not exercised enough it will find ways of getting into mischief. A tired dog is a happy dog.

The best kind of family for a Blue Heeler is one with plenty of space and enthusiasm for outdoor sports. Blue heelers do not care for lying around an apartment. The breed is not always good around small children, because the dogs have a tendency to herd children, which includes nipping, just as a Blue heeler might nip at the heels of a cow to corral it.

Being one of the most intelligent dog breeds, Blue heelers can get bored so try to provide some variety in your play. Take you blue heeler jogging with you in the morning and in the afternoon throw a toy for him or her. These dogs love to chew things, so provide a toy for him or her to chew instead of the furniture. Toys that hold treats are available, and can provide some mental as well as physical activity for your dog. Put in the treat and throw the toy, letting your blue heeler chase the toy and find the treat.

Parks and beaches that allow dogs are good places to run with your pet. If you go camping, find a place that allows dogs so that he or she can go hiking with you. Blue heelers are strong dogs that can carry their own backpacks with their dishes and food. If there is a dog park available, you can take your pet off the leash and let him or her run around with the other dogs, allowing you some rest.

Agility training, Frisbee games, and dancing are other ways of using the blue heeler’s energy. Agility courses can include interesting, varied obstacles such as lines of poles requiring the dog to weave its way through them, hurdles, teeter-totters, and tunnels. The blue heeler’s intelligence makes it able to learn voice commands and solve problems. Jumping up and catching or chasing a Frisbee or a ball is also a vigorous exercise. Some dog owners like to work up dance routines with their dogs, and there are competitions available for dogs and their humans to perform their dances to music before an audience.

Winning ribbons in competition can be rewarding, but remember that the main reward is having fun with your blue heeler and enjoying each other’s company. Get your family or friends involved in vigorous play with your blue heeler and you can all have a good time and a happy home life.