This article was originally published in Showsight Magazine, November 2021 issue.
The Lancashire Heeler, native to the United Kingdom, has been used for hundreds of years as working dogs on farms in the Lancashire area. Though a little-known breed, they are still working on farms today. The Lancashire Heeler, once known as the Ormskirk Heeler, was first recognized by The Kennel Club (UK) in 1981, when it was placed on the Rare Breeds Register as a Vulnerable Native Breed. Due to the small number of dogs comprising the gene pool, there is a risk of inherited diseases of the eye. The United States Lancashire Heeler Club, the breed’s parent club, is currently in the Miscellaneous Group, working toward full recognition. These Heelers compete in every applicable event, both performance and companion, as well as UKC conformation
The Lancashire Heeler is the smallest of the Herding Breeds. A robust little drover, Heelers have traditionally been used to drive cattle from farm to market, but they also exhibit Terrier instincts when rabbiting and ratting. Small, powerful, sturdily built, and an alert and energetic worker, the Heeler is courageous, happy, and affectionate to the owner. The smooth coat colors are black & tan and liver & tan. The fine undercoat is covered throughout by a weather-resistant, short, thick, hard, flat topcoat.
The Lancashire Heeler is a very healthy dog, and the health of the breed is a priority, first and foremost. The USLHC encourages breeders to participate in the CHIC program. The USLHC has partnered with OFA to establish the minimum protocol for specific health screenings that include DNA testing for PLL (Primary Lens Luxation) and CEA (Collie Eye Anomaly) as well as veterinary evaluation of the patella. We continue to evaluate the need for additional testing for this breed as information becomes available.
The USLHC Judges Education Committee is finishing up the AKC Lancashire Heeler Judges Education Presentation, which will be available very soon. In the meantime, look for our Heelers in the Miscellaneous Classes at All-Breed Shows and OPEN Shows. Our members are passionate about this breed and are happy to visit with you.
Below is a listing of the active breeders in the US. These are USLHC members who have had litters in the past two years or are planning future breedings.
As our membership grows and our Heeler population increases, we invite you to join us and be a part of the growth and journey of this awesome little breed with a huge personality! For more information, visit the Club’s website: https://www.unitedstateslancashireheelerclub.com or contact Sheryl Bradbury, USLHC President, at 816-308-2424 or sherylbradbury@windstream.net.
