Oh, you’re in for a treat! These Blue Heeler mixes are gorgeous showstoppers! But before diving deeper, let’s meet the Blue Heelers themselves.
Blue Heeler , also known as the Australian Cattle Dog is an energetic dog thriving in dog sports. Picture this:
- Boundless energy.
- Intelligence that’ll blow your mind.
- Loyalty that runs deeper than the ocean.
This breed results from a cross between wild dingo dogs (probably where they earned their upright ears) and Border Collies or Dalmatians.
In the 19th century, this breed was used to herd cattle in the vast Australian outback. The breed’s name comes from the fact they nip at the heels of cattle to keep it moving.
They excel at agility, obedience, and even tricks with the proper training and mental stimulation.
But here’s the thing: they’re not for the faint of heart. Blue Heelers are like perpetual motion machines, thriving on activity and mental stimulation.
Without it, they can get bored and resort to mischief. However, I found some stunning Blue Heeler crossbreeds that may better match you and your family.
The 17 Stunning Blue Heeler Mixes
With such a powerful personality, work ethic, high drive, and a mischievous side, the purebred Blue Heeler is an energetic pup that may not be appropriate for every would-be dog owner or family with small children.
But with a blue Heeler mix dog, you can get the best of both worlds by mixing two dog breeds.
Known as hybrid dogs, we’ve compiled 17 best Blue Heeler mixes for you to consider.
1. The Cattle Shepherd (German Shepherd x Blue Heeler)
On top of the list is a hybrid quite close to my heart! I own a GSD, and I am an avid fan of the Australian Cattle Dog, so if you ask me, there is no way you can go wrong with this combination.
The first thing to mention about this Shepherd Blue Heeler mixture is that it is a powerful and tough dog with a strong personality, so it is best fitted to experienced rather than first-time pet parents.
The dominance trait is apparent in the Shepherd Heeler, meaning they need plenty of exercise, space, and consistent training and handling to be normal functioning dogs.
This mix is very intelligent with a strong work ethic, which means they can give in to boredom if they are not mentally and physically stimulated enough.
If a guard dog is what you’re after, look no further than the Cattle Shepherd.
This woofer is incredibly protective, alert, and devoted to his owners, all qualities that make him one of the best watchdogs out there but also a loyal companion.
Do note that he will need some extra training and socialization to ensure his protectiveness stays healthy!
This is a large dog; the shepherd Heeler can weigh as much as a whopping 95 pounds, and their double coat translates to a demanding grooming schedule.
This mix can be prone to hip dysplasia, which is expected in the German Shepherd breed.
While the Cattle Shepherd can be aloof (especially around strangers), that doesn’t mean he isn’t affectionate. He’s sure to spoil you with lots of cuddles after long walks.
2. The Blueweiler (Australian Cattle Dog x Rottweiler)
Both parent breeds have their roots in cattle herding, so you can probably imagine how high the exercise needs of this mix are and how work-driven he is!
He’ll need a strong-willed, active owner who can exercise him for hours daily and keep him mentally stimulated with training and puzzle games.
The Blueweiler makes a loving, protective, and loyal companion with the right owner. But be warned: He often expresses his love through slobbery kisses.
Does waking up with kibble-smelling breath every morning sound like a total nightmare? You’ll want to consider a cleaner, less drooly mix.
This mix often has the Rottweiler coloring, but it’s not unheard of in the typical Blue Heeler colors.
3. The Boston Cattle Dog (Boston Terrier x Blue Heeler)
The Boston Cattle dog, a muscular, medium-sized pooch, can also be surprisingly strong, so he needs assured and firm handling to keep him in check.
Consistent training will be required to counter his urge to dominate.
Boston Cattle dogs typically don’t shed much or require much grooming, making them ideal pups for those not handy with the brush. However, they have a high prey drive and must be supervised around small animals.
The Boston Cattle dog is a spunky pup, thanks to its Boston terrier ancestry, which gives it an intense personality.
In the right hands, however, the Boston cattle pup can be a fantastic, switched-on, and friendly pet.
This can make him an outstanding playmate for older children as this Blue Heeler mix will try to ‘herd’ smaller kids.
4. The Doxie Heeler (Blue Heeler x Dachshund)
Make way for the Doxie Heeler! No, seriously, if you don’t, he will barge his way through you. Despite his small stature, this pup has a feisty attitude and a lot of courage.
Just imagine the beautiful Doxie colors mixed with the recognizable blue speckles!
When this mix does not explore interesting smells, he spends his time keeping watch or digging his way to Narnia (or his bone).
Of course, he’ll also give you plenty of love, attention, and cuddles throughout the day.
5. The Bernese Cattle Dog (Bernese Mountain Dog x Blue Heeler)
This woofer may be built like a tank, but he’s the epitome of a gentle giant.
At heart, he’s affectionate, gentle, and incredibly devoted to his owners. And with boundless energy and stamina, he’ll be one of the best hiking partners in the world.
First-time pup parents will likely find the Bernese Cattle Dog’s size and sturdy build challenging. He’s best suited to experienced, confident owners who have previously worked with large breeds.
Their quick brain is highly trainable but requires mental and physical stimulation. As people-focused, the Bernese Cattle dog can also be prone to separation anxiety.
6. The Blue Spaniel (Cocker Spaniel x Blue Heeler)
Blue Cocker Spaniels are anything but “blue” in personality even though there is a blue colored Cocker Spaniel!
They’re cheerful, lively, and incredibly playful. Thanks to their Spaniel parent, these woofers tend to be “Velcro dogs,” so they’re best suited to owners who appreciate receiving constant attention.
With the Blue Spaniel, you get the lux coat of the Cocker and the stunning Heeler mottled blue. The Blue Spaniel is an attractive hybrid dog with long fur on its ears and chest.
However, the Blue Spaniel can be aggressive towards outsiders and is known to be a barker, so ample exercise and playtime are necessary.
And, as Cockers might be prone to eye problems such as progressive retinal atrophy, this is an issue to watch for.
Blue Cocker Spaniels love interactive, mentally stimulating games such as fetch, puzzle toys, and agility.
They also appreciate a secure, safe space to roam free and expel their energy.
7. The Basset Heeler (Basset Hound x Blue Heeler)
Cross the Australian Cattle dog’s brains with the Basset Hound’s unrivaled sniffer, and you get a mix who can rely on instincts and wisdom!
While his nose may lead him astray during training, unless you use high-value rewards like chicken meat, it won’t lead him away from his family.
He loves being next to his favorite humans and often follows them from room to room.
Although their coats are generally easy to maintain, Basset Heelers who inherit the Basset Hound’s long, floppy ears will require frequent ear cleaning to prevent infections and excessive wax buildup.
The Basset Heeler is a promising choice as a smaller pup if large dogs are not your thing.
However, this energetic puppy also has a larger-than-life personality and can be very protective and cautious with strangers.
Early socialization and consistent training are necessary for all the Blue Heeler mix breeds.
He is also a bright spark and can quickly become destructive if left alone for too long or allowed to get bored.
8. The Beagle Heeler
This adventurous pup may have a knack for getting up to no good, specifically opting to follow his nose over your commands. However, he will still win you with his endearing smile, gentle temperament, and forever-wagging tail.
The Beagle Heeler typically stands slightly smaller than a purebred Australian Cattle Dog.
While this can make these four-footers perfect for small households, they’ll still need a spacious backyard to work out their legs and top-notch noses.
9. The Golden Cattle Dog (Blue Heeler x Golden Retriever)
The Golden Cattle Dog takes his job as man’s best friend seriously.
And by that, we mean he’s Hachiko-level loyal, incredibly affectionate, and a perfect playmate.
But do remember that he needs a lot of exercise to keep his “retrieving your socks” instincts in check, so he’s best suited to an adventurous, active family.
The Golden Cattle Dog can vary significantly in appearance. However, you can generally expect a medium-sized pup with a muscular build and wide, endearing smile.
10. The Blue Tzu Heeler (Blue Heeler x Shih Tzu )
Cuteness overload in 3,2,1… and we can hear your “awws” through the screen!
The first of our ‘mini’ Blue Heeler mixes, the Blue Tzu is a definitive cutie pie and can be from 12 to 18 inches tall.
This is a fluffy hybrid dog, with the Shih Tzu’s distinctive furry ears and body giving him a teddy bear look, enhanced in beauty by the classic Blue Heeler fur pattern.
Even though this is a smaller pup than a purebred Blue Heeler, the Blue Tzu Heeler nonetheless has abundant energy and loves to get out and about. This crossbreed thrives in big open spaces rather than just existing as a sofa lap pup.
But he does have the Shih Tzu’s need for company, so you must be sure you can shower him with plenty of love and attention.
This adorable, compact woofer has a heart as warm as his smile. Blue Tzu Heelers are gentle, playful, and generally more laidback than purebred Australian Cattle Dogs.
Puppies who inherit the Shih Tzu’s coat type are also ideal for allergy sufferers; they shed minimally and don’t produce much dander, making them less likely to trigger sneezing fits.
However, remember that there is no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic pup.
11. The Border Heeler (Border Collie x Blue Heeler)
The Border Heeler is a “no-nonsense” pup. And by that, we mean he’s alert, takes his job seriously, and doesn’t have time for couch potatoes.
He thrives with an owner who can match his high energy level and keep him busy throughout the day.
Combining the Border Collie breed with the Blue Heeler produces a heady mix.
Bringing together two of the most prosperous herding canines means you get a combination that can tend to be hyperactive, especially when their intelligence is brought into play.
Considering that both the Border Collie and Australian Cattle Dogs are highly intelligent breeds, it’s a given that this pup will be one brainy barker! He’ll likely master any training you throw at him.
However, remember that he won’t stand for dull, repetitive training sessions; keep him engaged with tricks, mentally enriching puzzles, and new approaches.
The Border Collie Blue Heeler blend has limitless energy that needs to be harnessed because they become destructive if bored, so daily exercise and stimulation are essential.
Early socialization and training are also necessary to manage the protective side that comes from their herding dogs’ instincts.
This means this mix suits more experienced dog owners best.
Healthwise, there are some problems with the Border Heeler, as they can be inclined to eye difficulties, including cataracts and a condition called collie eye anomaly.
12. The Ausky (Blue Heeler x Siberian Husky)
This handsome pup makes the perfect running partner! With genes from the Australian Cattle Dog and Siberian Husky, he’s built to traverse long distances and tolerate any terrain.
Most Auskies are also incredibly playful, and while they can get into mischief and fancy themselves explorers, they’re extremely loyal and will always put their families first.
13. The Dalmatian Heeler
Cruella de Vil would no doubt have her eyes on this mix!
This spotty medium-sized pup is gentle, lively, and has a sensitive heart. He’s incredibly attuned to his humans’ emotions and is sure to comfort them when times get tough, but a patient training approach is needed.
Dalmatian Heelers are energetic in both mind and body, meaning that during the day, they will need a ton of physical activity and mental stimulation to stay happy (and to fend off destructive behaviors like chewing).
The adorable spots of the Dalmatian and the grey, blue, and black Heeler mottling and the Dalmatian Heeler will turn those heads. But this Dalmatian-Heeler mix dog is more than looks; he also comes with a prominent personality to match.
The Dalmatian Heeler is one mix for the more experienced dog owners, who tend to have an authoritarian personality.
14. The Chi Heeler (Chihuahua x Blue Heeler)
A chihuahua and a Blue Heeler combination sounds odd on paper; however, it seems to work.
The Chi Heelers are medium to small pups with a mixture of that Chihuahua sass and the Heeler’s switched-on brain.
While this might sound like trouble, you get a fun, active, hyper-alert pup with a tremendous zest for life. This mix can be a typical Chihuahua; however, when it comes to children, he shows his bossy, dominant side, particularly with the younger ones.
Light-shedding and straightforward to care for, the Chihuahua Cattle Dog mix likes to govern the roost.
But with constant handling and a ton of love and engagement, the Chi Heeler is a rewarding little dog to have.
15. The Box Heeler (Boxer x Blue Heeler)
The Box Heeler is sure to keep your day-to-day life jam-packed with fun!
You’ll find him cuddled up on the couch next to his favorite human when he’s not keeping you entertained with his hilariously cute antics or helping you get your daily steps in.
While Box Heelers may have a goofy side, they’re highly protective and patient. However, this trait can make this crossbreed an excellent guard or watchdog.
They also tend to get along well with young children. They can be pretty rough during play and should be closely supervised.
Longer limbed than the ACD, the Box Heeler has the specific Boxer complexion, with his short, easy-to-care-for fur full of blue speckles.
A popular puppy, the Box Heeler is also a pile of joy and energy, so he would profit from an active home, where he will make an incredible playmate for kids.
Typically strong and healthy, the box Heeler has a lifespan of up to 16 years.
16. The Corgi Heeler
The cutest puppy on the planet award has to go to the Corgi Heeler!
With those unique Corgi ‘bat ears’ and the trademark Heeler mottling, the Corgi Blue Heeler is an extraordinary-looking dog that will soften your heart.
One look, and you’ll be swooning over him (yep, even if he just destroyed your favorite pair of socks).
But this woofer is more than his aww-worthy looks; he’s bold, intelligent, and affectionate with those with whom he forms strong bonds.
Thanks to his Corgi side, he’s also pretty fun-loving and can make a wonderful playmate for older children who know how to interact with pets appropriately.
But that doesn’t imply they don’t require much exercise, as this cute dude is still a tiny powerhouse. And the Heeler impact can also make this Corgi crossbreed less of a barker.
The Blue Heeler Corgi mixes are intelligent and need to be occupied, but they are happy to settle down with their human pack at the end of the day.
17. The Labrador Heeler (Labrador x Blue Heeler)
Always the most popular canine breed in the US, the Labrador is a well-established family pet in its own right. So, the LabraHeeler, a Blue Heeler Lab combination, has much to live up to.
With the allegiance of the Blue Heeler and the loving personality of the Labrador, the LabraHeeler makes an outstanding all-around family pup.
The LabraHeeler is the ultimate pup to take on adventures: He’s courageous, energetic, and built to handle anything thrown at him.
Thanks to his Labrador parent, even water can’t stop him, as he has a natural affinity for swimming and usually loves water sports.
LabraHeelers are great family companions for those who lead active lifestyles and want a loyal, protective pup. While they can be pretty reserved, most LabraHeelers have a goofy side that shines through.
His character is also the best of both worlds, with the people-loving and fun Lab softening off the Heeler’s more unfriendly and protective side.
But you must be ready to put your walking shoes on, as this Blue Heeler mix breed needs a lot of daily exercise.
To Sum It Up
Be ready for the fact that any Blue Heeler mix dog comes with a high need for exercise, a durable coat and one heck of a herding instinct.
However, these dogs can make loyal companions for a family that knows how to handle their boundless energy and mischievous side.
No matter what Blue Heeler mix you chose, it is going to be a wild ride, so be sure you are prepared for that. All the luck on your new adventures!
Nandina has been a lifelong dog owner and enthusiast. She shared her home with multiple breeds, including Giant Schnauzers, Cane Corsos, and Huskies. Currently, she is raising a three-year-old rescue and a working-line German Shepherd puppy.
Actively engaged in IGP dog sports for two years, Nandina is a certified instructor for basic obedience and socialization. She works as a trainer in her local dog sports club, and in her spare time, she handicrafts biothane gear for dogs.