Blue Heeler Poodle Mix: An Ultimate Guide

The best thing about getting a crossbreed dog is getting the best of both parents. In this case, the Blue Heeler Poodle mux combines the outstanding characteristics of the parents, making a family-friendly, easy-to-maintain dog. 

The Blue Heeler Poodle mix is a unique dog, a crossbreed of the Blue Heeler and the Poodle. This mix is friendly, loyal, playful, and affectionate and makes a perfect dog for a family setting. 

If you have your eyes on this unique dog, this article is resourceful and can give you insights into the kind of dog it is. We will review its history, appearance, temperament, care and maintenance guidelines, and health issues. 

A Brief Introduction to The Blue Heeler Poodle Mix

Before we delve into the nitty gritty of this dog, it is essential to understand how it presents by looking at the most outstanding features of the parents. 

The Blue Heeler, also known as the Australian Cattle Dog, is a medium-sized dog initially bred for herding. It is resilient, high-energy, and intelligent, making it a perfect working dog. It has an intense drive to work and is out to impress by serving its owners. 

The Poodle comes in different sizes, toy, miniature, and standard. It is a fun, energetic, intelligent, and playful dog, making it a perfect match for a family with kids. The Poodle is known for its hypoallergenic coat, a quality that attracts breeders to cross it with other dogs. 

The mix, therefore, is an energetic, playful, and loyal dog that will bring cheer to any home. The dog loves and enjoys company with its owners, always up for fun playtime and ready for games. 

The History of The Blue Heeler Poodle Mix 

There is not much to write home about the history of this mix, but the parents have a long line of how they came to be. We may not have clear information on how the mix came to be, but studying the parents’ history can give you insights into the kind of dog the mix is. 

Blue Heeler History

The Blue Heeler is also known as the Australian Cattle Dog or the Queensland Heeler. The history of this dog can be traced back to the 19th century when it was bred as a working dog. Australian settlers kept it as a guard dog for cattle during their long-distance travels. 

As time went by, Australian ranchers wanted a dog to herd large numbers of cattle kept for the beef industry. Other dogs like the British Smithfield were overwhelmed at herding cattle, even though they were seasoned in herding sheep. 

In 1840, two ranchers, Thomas Hall and George Elliot mixed the British Smithfield with the Blue Merle Highland Collies. The idea was to create a hardy herding dog that would withstand the working conditions on the ranches. 

This new creation became a favorite of ranchers, and its popularity grew with breeding. Eventually, Jack and Harry Bagust crossed this dog with dalmatians. The aim was to combine the Dalmatians’ loyalty and the new dog’s agility. This new dog became the Blue Heeler. 

In 1903, the Blue Heeler was endorsed by the Cattle and Sheep Dog Club of Australia and the original Kennel Club of New South Wales. In 1980, the Blue Heeler was approved for registration by the American Kennel Club and placed as the working dog group. 

Poodle History

The Poodle is believed to have originated in Germany, where it was among popular dogs such as the Rottweiler. Initially, it was bred as a working dog to retrieve waterfowl for hunters. 

Hunters were attracted to the dog’s intelligence and excellent swimming skills. Unfortunately, its dense coat made it difficult for the dog to swim, so they had to trim the fur and make the Poodle more buoyant in water. 

Its popularity grew, becoming a luxurious breed common among French nobles. This followed its growth all around Europe, becoming one of the most popular dogs among royals. It is the national dog of France, but its popularity has grown across the west. 

Poodles came in a standard size, but others were created as breeding evolved. Today, the dog comes in a Toy, Miniature, Moyen, Teacup, and Standard variety. The standard Poodle was recognized as a breed by the AKC in 1887. 

What Does the Blue Heeler Poodle Mix Look Like?

The appearance of the Blue Heeler Poodle mix can be challenging to highlight, considering the two parents have entirely different physical characteristics. Even so, there are some distinct features that you can expect from the mix. 

How Big do They Get?

The size of the Blue Heeler Poodle mix varies depending on the variety of the Poodle used for breeding. If the blend is from a Toy Poodle, then it is bound to be much smaller than if it is from a Standard Poodle. 

The standard Poodle grows as tall as 18 to 24 inches at the shoulder and can weigh between 45 to 70 pounds. On the other hand, the Blue Heeler grows as tall as 17 to 20 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 31 to 35 pounds. 

From the parents’ size, assuming the Poodle used in the Standard variety, the mix can have a height of 18 to 22 inches and weigh between 40 to 60 pounds. 

Remember, puppies in the same litter can be different in size depending on the dominant gene from the parents. Some may weigh as heavy as their Poodle parent, others as their Blue Heeler parents, and others might be an average of both. 

Coat Type and Colors

Like other Blue Heeler mixes, the mix’s color will depend on the most dominant gene from the parents. That said, puppies from the same litter will have different coats, some leaning closer to either parent and others combining the parents’ coats. 

The Blue Heeler has a double-layer coat which helps to protect the dog from extreme weather conditions as a working dog. On the other hand, the Poodle has a dense, curly, and coarse coat that grows rapidly. Thankfully, the Poodle coat does not shed. 

The mix, therefore, has a less dense coat than the Poodle, but it is curly, coarse, and long. Even though the coat does not shed, it is prone to tangles and mats and requires consistent grooming to keep it in shape. 

When it comes to colors, The mix can come in one solid color or a mix of two or more colors from the parents. The Blue Heeler comes in red and blue, while the Poodle comes in Black, White, Black and White, Apricot, Sable, Brown, Grey, and Cream.

The mix can lean more towards the Poodle color, take the Blue Heelers distinct color, or have a combination of both. It can have one solid color and marking of another all over the body. 

Here’s a short video on Blue Heeler Poodle Mix puppies so you can get an idea of their appearance:

What is The Temperament of the Blue Heeler Poodle Mix?

The Blue Heeler Poodle mix has a friendly and affectionate personality, making it a family’s favorite. It enjoys the company of its human friends and is open to interacting with other dogs and pets. 

The mix has an even temper and bounces back the emotions you share. It is the type of dog you will want to come home to and enjoy cuddles in the evening with. But, it is highly energetic; you will need to devote time to play and run around with it. 

The playful personality is great, but it comes with the curiosity of a cat. With this, you will need to keep an eye on the dog as it can get naughty and messy if left to explore independently. The good thing is with early training; the dog can learn to respect the boundaries you put for it. 

This charming dog is pretty independent and will play with toys. However, it gets anxious if left alone for long periods. The dog would rather see and follow you around than sit and interact with toys all day. So make sure it has company for the most part. 

How to Take Care of the Blue Heeler Poodle Mix

Your furry friend will appreciate the attention you give it, but constant care and maintenance will ensure the dog stays happy and healthy. Therefore, it needs a nutritious, healthy diet, regular exercise, grooming, and training. 

Feeding

The best diet for your dog is one that meets its specific needs. On this note, no standard diet is designed for Blue Heeler Poodle Mixes, as all dogs have different health needs. It would be best to consult a vet on the right food for your furry friend. 

As a high-energy dog, the Blue Heeler Poodle mix needs a diet that meets its energy requirements while supporting its overall health. Since the dog is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, ensuring the diet includes fish oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin is essential. 

Ask your vet for the best amount and frequency of food to avoid overfeeding your dog. Most dogs do not have control over how much they eat, hence the importance of scheduling meals and giving them adequate quantities. 

Exercise

Your Blue Heeler Poodle mix will do well with regular exercise to expend its built-up energy. Like other energetic dogs, the mix will need at least an hour of exercise daily to stay healthy and happy. 

It is also vital to stimulate the dog mentally. The Blue Heeler Poodle mix is an intelligent dog and will be happy to solve puzzles, take on challenges and solve problems. Include interactive toys during playtime for both physical and mental exercise. 

Grooming

The coat of the Blue Heeler Poodle mix does not shed, thanks to the hypoallergenic quality of the Poodle’s coat. But, the coat is prone to tangling and matting, requiring consistent brushing. Brush the dog’s coat a few times a week to polish up the coat and keep it neat. 

You can bathe your dog as needed, but once a month is adequate. Too many baths might dry your dog’s skin, resulting in flaky skin, itching, and other skin issues. If you need to bathe your dog regularly, use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. 

Training

The intelligent Blue Heeler Poodle mix may be a little challenging to train. It can be stubborn and demanding and might need patience to get through training. That said, it will require a firm and consistent trainer that will not bow down to its manipulative and cheeky needs. 

Like other dogs, the Blue Heeler Poodle mix will do well with positive reinforcement. When training, ensure you bring treats and offer them along with praises each time the dog progresses. 

On the same note, ensure the dog gets adequate exercise to burn built-up energy before training. Socialize the dog early by taking it to doggy daycare or planning play dates with other dogs at the park. 

Blue Heeler Poodle Mix Health Issues

All dogs are prone to falling sick or developing chronic conditions, and your Blue Heeler Poodle is no exception. But with the proper care, frequent vet visits, regular exercise, and a healthy diet, your dog may escape the wrath of the health issues it is susceptible to. 

Here are some of the common health issues among Blue Heeler Poodle mixes:

• Hip dysplasia
• Elbow dysplasia
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy
• Addison’s disease
• Thyroid issues
• Bloating
• Hypoglycemia
• Epilepsy

FAQ

Is the Blue Heeler Poodle Mix a Great Family Dog?

The Blue Heeler Poodle mix is an excellent dog for families. It is highly active, playful, friendly, affectionate, and loyal, all attractive qualities in a family setting. It relates well to adults, kids, other dogs, and pets; therefore great in different family dynamics. 

Is the Blue Heeler Poodle Mix Hypoallergenic?

The Blue Heeler Poodle mix is considered a hypoallergenic dog, thanks to the Poodle hypoallergenic coat. It does not shed; therefore ideal for people that have pet allergies. 

How Long Does the Blue Heeler Poodle mix Live?

The Blue Heeler Poodle mix can live between 10 to 15 years which is the average of the Blue Heeler’s 13 to 15 years lifespan and the Poodle’s 8 to 15 years lifespan. 

How Much Does the Blue Heeler Poodle Mix Cost?

The mix can cost anywhere between $800 to $2,000. The total cost depends on the breeder, the location, the generation of the puppy, and additional health tests. 

Final Thoughts

The Blue Heeler Poodle mix is the perfect match if you are looking for a highly active, playful, and affectionate dog. The fluffy mix comes with a loveable personality that everyone in the family will love. With regular exercise, attention, and a healthy diet, the dog will give you back the love you show.