Lancashire Heeler
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Ormskirk Terrier
| Lancashire Heeler | |||||||||||||
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.jpg) A Lancashire Heeler at a dog show. | |||||||||||||
| Other names | Ormskirk Heeler Ormskirk Terrier | ||||||||||||
| Origin | England | ||||||||||||
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| Dog (domestic dog) | |||||||||||||
The Lancashire Heeler is a small breed of dog developed for use as a drover and herder of cattle. The Lancashire Heeler is listed by the Kennel Club (UK) as an endangered breed. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2024.[1]
The dog's coat is harsh and smooth with an undercoat which keeps the dog dry in all weathers. It may have a slight mane around the neck in winter. The dog is usually black and tan,[2] but liver and tan is also recognised by the Kennel Club. They are slightly longer than height at withers, usually measures between 10–12 inches (25–30 cm) at the shoulder and weighs 13–18 pounds (5.9–8.2 kg).[2]
In terms of personality, the breed standard used by the American Kennel Club describes them as "courageous, happy," and "affectionate to owner".[1] When happy, Lancashire Heelers may part their lips to mimic a human smile.[3]
Health
A 2024 UK study found a life expectancy of 15.4 years —the highest in the study— for the breed compared to an average of 12.7 for purebreeds and 12 for crossbreeds.[4]
The three most common serious conditions that can affect Heelers are Collie eye anomaly, primary lens luxation and persistent pupillary membranes.[5] As well as these eye conditions, dogs of this breed may suffer from Patella luxation.[6] The Lancashire Heeler is one of the more commonly affected breeds for primary lens luxation which is caused by an autosomal recessive mutation of the ADAMTS17 gene.[7]
