Pit Heeler Dog Breed

The Blue Heeler-Pit Bull mix, as a crossbreed, is not an official member of any breed group. Neither does any info exist about these hybrids' specific origin; while an Australian Cattle Dog-Pit Bull mix may have existed naturally for a long time, no breeder or breed club has claimed its creation. The Pit Bull-Blue Heeler mix likely gained popularity during the designer dog "explosion" in North America in the late 20th century. These energetic, intelligent, athletic dogs are good in either a working capacity or as pets for active families, but they're best suited for life in homes with lots of space.

A few Pit Heeler facts: they're medium-sized, averaging 18 inches at the shoulders in height and 50 pounds in weight; they have short, smooth coats that may or may not shed seasonally; and they're very energetic and will need a lot of exercise.

Some advantages and drawbacks to owning a Pit Heeler:

Some Pit Bull-Blue Heeler mix info: these hybrids are the offspring of two breeds that are energetic, confident, and protective--so one can expect a Pit Heeler to share those qualities as well. These crossbreeds are physically gifted as well: they're strong, fast, and depending on inherited traits, muscular as well. Pit Heeler size typically runs 16-20 inches at the shoulders in height and 40-60 pounds in weight. The coats are typically short, and they might be double-layered like the Cattle Dog's--in which case they'll shed heavily in the spring and fall (and the coats are not hypoallergenic). Coat colors include blue, brown, red, black, and gray, in both solid and multi-colored patterns.

Personality-wise, Pit Heelers are friendly, focused, and task-oriented. Regardless of inherited traits, they'll be super-active, and they have the unfortunate habit of chewing on objects (as both parent breeds do). And Pit Heelers are simply too active to live in apartments; they'll fare much better in homes with large, fenced yards that give them room to run.

A Pit Heeler will be strong, fast, and athletic, and will need a lot of outdoor exercise on a daily basis.

Friendly, alert, intelligent, energetic, and at times stubborn and controlling, the Blue Heeler-Pit Bull mix temperament is one of activity and enthusiasm. These hybrids are usually very affectionate with family members, and they'll be protective of them as well. These hybrids might inherit the Blue Heeler's herding instincts, so the dog may have the need to control moving objects--and the Blue Heeler is known to herd animals by biting, so a Pit Heeler can also be prone to biting (even when playing). These hybrids do get along well with kids and most other household pets, though they may inherit the Pit Bull's propensity for challenging other dogs. Owners say it's best if a Pit Heeler grows up alongside any children or other pets, so they learn to be accustomed to each other.

In regards to training: these hybrids are very smart, and usually respond well to it--but their potential stubbornness means they may need a few repetitions when learning commands or tasks. As with any breed, firm, consistent, reward-based training methods are best.

And a Pit Heeler has excellent watchdog skills. These hybrids are alert, protective, and confident, and will bark at and investigate unknown sights and sounds--and chances are they'll also be able to neutralize potential threats like intruders.

A Pit Heeler, due to hybrid vigor (in which a crossbred dog inherits the healthiest traits of its parent breeds), is very healthy. Even so, these hybrids might suffer ailments common to the parent breeds, including hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, assorted allergies, and various eye issues. Potential owners are advised to ask breeders for health screenings for the dog and/or its parents, or they can ask their own veterinarians to do the screenings.

Life expectancy for these hybrids is 12-15 years.