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How do I entertain a Blue Heeler puppy?

Alexis Toriello
Certified Dog Behavior Consultant
Alexis Toriello is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant and the Founder and CEO of Zen Dog Training in New York. Her time working as a canine behavior specialist in various animal shelters has made her knowledgeable in assessing, rehabilitating, and training dogs. In addition to being an Associate Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (ACDBC), Alexis is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) and a Master’s Degree Candidate in Animal Behavior and Conservation at Hunter College. She is certified by the American Red Cross in Canine First-Aid and CPR and has endorsements from numerous hospitals and clinics and the Washington Humane Society.

Alexis Toriello

Certified Dog Behavior Consultant

Expert Answer

Keep your puppy mentally stimulated by giving it some challenging puzzle toys with treats.

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Question

How do you train a Blue Heeler puppy?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Reward-based training methods are ideal. This encourages the dog to repeat desirable actions by giving them a reward. As intelligent dogs, Blue Heelers respond well to this method.

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Question

Are Blue Heelers protective?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Blue Heelers are herding dogs and like to round things up. This does give them a sense of guardianship and makes them protective of things in their care. So yes, Blue Heelers are considered a protective dog, which can make them a good choice as pet and watchdog.

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Question

Are Blue Heelers aggressive?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Much of whether they are aggressive or not depends on how well they were socialized as a puppy. Blue Heelers can be anxious by nature, and when fearful, may bite in order to protect themselves. Good socialization makes them more confident and less likely to be fear biters.

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