The Lancashire Heeler has one characteristic of its very own the "Lancashire Heeler Smile" when very happy or contented the Lancashire Heeler will draw back its lips and show all its teeth, this is a sight to be seen and one I have yet to see in any other breed.

The Lancashire Heeler is a very loyal and loving dog, and as such it makes a wonderful "Family" pet, they are good with children and other dogs especially when they are brought up together.  Being a dog bred for Working the Lancashire Heeler loves to go for long walks, but it is equally at home curled up on your knee watching the television or playing in the garden. Though a working dog the Lancashire Heeler does have terrier instincts when ratting or rabbiting.  It is a very happy dog which is very affectionate to its owner.

Most Lancashire Heeler Breeders have their puppies eyes tested for any hereditary defects, as it has been found that there is a small instance of "Collie Eye" and "Lens Luxation" within the breed.  The eye test is done voluntarily by the breeder (there are at present no K.C regulations to make the test compulsory) at around 6 weeks old as a precautionary measure, to try to ensure that any hereditary defects are not passed on to future generations, the breeder receives a sheet from the eye specialist which documents the eye condition of each puppy in the litter, ask to see this .  This apart the Lancashire Heeler does not suffer from any other Hereditary defects, such as is found in  many breeds of pedigree dogs e.g back problems, hip problems, hearing problems etc. Though there are some small instances of Canine Eclampsia and Patella Luxation . For further information on the above mentioned diseases  see the dedicated pages on this website

The Lancashire Heeler is a fun loving dog full of natural curiosity and stamina who loves to play with all kinds of toys , as I said earlier exercise is good for both owner and dog, it keeps both of you fit and healthy, and forms a firm bond between dog and owner.  The Lancashire Heeler will walk with you until you reach journey's end, but would then be happy to walk the same distance again without any great effort.  One thing we have found with this breed is that they either love or hate water, there does not seem to be an in-between  most do love water, but others will stay well away from it.

The Lancashire Heeler likes to be a fully fledged member of the family, living in the house and taking part in all aspects of the daily routine, this gives them the opportunity to express their personalities and gives you the full advantage of the infinite love they have to offer.

Now for the hardest part which is to sum up the breed in just a few words.  The Lancashire Heeler is a "Big Dog" within a small dogs body, he/she has the courage and stamina of a German Shepherd or Rottweiller but with a gentle loving nature that eats deep into your heart, and forms a lifelong special rapport and bond between dog and owner.